The 2027 Kia Carnival serves as the most practical offering in the Kia lineup, designed to provide a “private jet on wheels” experience for the whole family. This latest model introduces key updates to improve both style and everyday utility as it continues to challenge the Toyota Sienna for segment dominance. Read on to see if these changes make it the best choice for your driveway, and be sure to watch our full video review on YouTube for a deep dive into every feature.
2027 Kia Carnival Pricing & Trim Levels
The 2027 model year sees a price adjustment of $500 across all trims, with both gas and hybrid powertrains available to suit different buyer needs.
|
Trim Level |
Starting MSRP |
This trim is for buyers who… |
|---|---|---|
|
LX (Gas) |
$37,490 |
Best for value-conscious buyers needing standard seating for seven. |
|
LXS (Gas / Hybrid) |
$39,490 / $41,490 |
The “Sweet Spot” adding leatherette and 8-passenger seating. |
|
EX (Gas / Hybrid) |
$41,690 / $43,690 |
Tech-focused buyers wanting navigation and a cabin camera. |
|
SX (Gas / Hybrid) |
$46,590 / $48,590 |
Families seeking luxury with ventilated seats and 360-degree cameras. |
|
SX Prestige (Gas / Hybrid) |
$51,590 / $53,590 |
For those who want every luxury, including Bose audio and VIP seats. |
Want to know what dealers paid for this model? Check out our New Car Quotes Tool: www.carconfections.com/new-car-quotes
Performance, Powertrain & Capability
- Engine: 3.5L V-6 (Gas) or 1.6L Turbo I-4 + electric motor (Hybrid).
- Output: 290 hp / 262 lb.ft (Gas) or 241 hp / 270 lb.ft (Hybrid).
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) only; 8-speed automatic (Gas) or 6-speed automatic (Hybrid).
- Towing/Utility: The gas model offers a max towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, while the Hybrid is rated for 2,500 lbs.
- Fuel Economy: Gas: 18/26/21 MPG | Hybrid: 34/32/33 MPG (Combined rating increased by +1 for 2027).
Exterior Design
Kia has maintained a boxy, SUV-like appearance for the Carnival to differentiate it from traditional minivans.
- General Theme: Modern “Star Map” LED lighting and the latest Tigernose grille design.
- Trim Differences: LX and EX feature vertical grille bars, while SX and SX Prestige utilize a chrome mesh pattern.
- Wheel Sizes: 17-inch alloys are standard on LX/S, while higher trims move to 19-inch contrast or black finish wheels.
- Design Options: New for 2027 is the Iceberg Green paint color (Flare Red has been discontinued), and the Dark Edition styling package is now available for the EX trim.
Interior Tech & Luxury Highlights
The interior is designed for “occupant opulence,” offering generous space and high-tech connectivity.
- Infotainment: A standard 12.3-inch display with the new Kia ccNC system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all trims.
- Audio System: Options range from a standard 6-speaker system to a premium 12-speaker Bose system on the SX Prestige.
- Seating: Material choices include cloth, SynTex leatherette, or real leather. For 2027, Captain’s Chairs are now optional on EX and SX trims, while the SX Prestige offers VIP Lounge Seating that is heated, ventilated, and power-reclining.
- Cargo Space: The Carnival offers a best-in-class maximum cargo volume of 145.1 cubic feet with all seats folded or removed
Safety & Driver AssistancE
- Standard Suite: The Kia DriveWise suite is standard, including forward emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
- Premium Tech: SX and Prestige trims upgrade to Highway Driving Assist (HDA) 2.0 and include a Blind View Camera system within the digital gauge cluster.
LOOKING TO BUY any New VEHICLE?
A smart next step would be to check our Car Quote Tool. This tool will connect you with local dealerships in your area to get you the BEST price, access to INVOICE PRICING information, and a monthly payment calculator. Get dealerships to compete for your business!
Final Verdict: More Choice, More Value
The 2027 Kia Carnival continues to be a top contender in the family segment by offering an unmatched combination of SUV styling and minivan practicality. While it remains FWD only, it beats rivals like the Sienna and Odyssey in maximum cargo volume and offers a more premium “VIP” second-row experience. For families who want the most modern tech and a “private jet” feel on the road, the Carnival is a must-buy.
Watch the Full “Car Confections” Review!
Check out our detailed review on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gZkbMYj4vn4
Does the addition of the Hybrid powertrain and the new Iceberg Green paint make you choose the Carnival over the Toyota Sienna? Let us know in the comments!
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