Should You Buy a 2025 Kia Carnival Instead of the 2026?

Date:2025-08-07 23:48:25 Category:tech Views:1 Comment:0

Should You Buy a 2025 Kia Carnival Instead of the 2026? originally appeared on Autoblog.

Kia's on Its Best Year Yet, Thanks to Traditional Models

Kia is coming off its strongest first half of a calendar year yet, with 416,511 vehicles sold from January to June 2025 – a 12% increase over the same period last year. While its battery-electric offerings like the EV6 and EV9 saw notable year-over-year declines, the brand's hybrid and traditional models carried the momentum.

Among the standouts was the Kia Carnival, which, alongside the Telluride, Sportage, and new K4, posted its best-ever first-half performance. With demand holding strong and production stable, Kia is keeping the 2026 Carnival updates modest – a negligible $190 MSRP bump across all trims, with no equipment or styling changes.

But with 2025 models still on dealer lots – and nearly identical to the upcoming version – it may be worth looking at what's available now, especially with discounts already in place.

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2025 Inventory Offers More Than Just Leftover Value

Despite the minor MSRP increase for 2026, the 2025 Kia Carnival is already seeing noticeable price cuts in the market. Entry-level LX models are listed on Cars.com at around $36,400, or about $1,000 off MSRP. Mid-level EX and SX variants typically carry similar discounts in the $1,000–$1,500 range. Some SX Prestige models are advertised at $48,400, which is a $1,500 drop from the sticker price.

The 2025 Carnival Hybrid lineup shows even deeper cuts. Hybrid LXS units are available for as low as $38,600, undercutting MSRP by $2,400. High-spec Hybrid SX Prestige models can be had with discounts up to $2,700. Pricing for mid-tier hybrid trims like the EX and SX shows smaller reductions – roughly $500-$700 in most listings.

In most cases, 2025 models are the better value, especially for buyers looking to avoid the price increase that comes with a new model year.

What's New for 2026? Not Much—And That's the Point

Mechanically and visually, nothing changes for the 2026 Carnival. The gas version retains its 3.5-liter V6 (287 hp), paired with an eight-speed automatic and 21 mpg combined. The hybrid continues with its 1.6-liter turbo and electric motor combo (242 hp), returning 33 mpg combined.

Standard equipment remains strong across the board, including a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, power sliding doors, and a full suite of driver-assist features. The value is already built in, making the discounted 2025 models an option worth considering before they disappear.