2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid makes ASEAN debut, PH next?

Around late last year, Kia revealed the facelifted Carnival. Featuring an EV9-inspired look, the updated minivan not only gets a more daring look but is now available with a turbocharged electrified powertrain. With Korea the first market to get it, it won't be long until other countries get their hands on it.

Fast forward to the middle of 2024, the refreshed fourth-generation Kia Carnival has officially made its way to Southeast Asia. Revealed at this year's Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show in Indonesia, the stylish people carrier received a sleeker appearance both inside & out and a new hybrid powertrain.

Beginning with what's under the hood, the 2025 Carnival for Indonesia is now available with a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four that's assisted by an electric motor. The result is a total system output of 245 PS and 367 Nm of torque. Power is then sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic gearbox. For those who still prefer the 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine is still available and is paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

Design-wise, the updated Carnival now features the brand's Opposites United design philosophy which sees the people carrier come with a bigger grille and a new pair of LED headlights. Around the back, the changes are more minimal which include restyled LED taillights with vertical styling elements and new alloy wheel designs.

Get inside and the 2025 Carnival now features a curved panoramic display. High-grade variants get a pair of 12.3-inch screens which serve as the vehicle's instrument panel and touchscreen infotainment. Also present is a new rotary-style gear selector, captain seats on the second row, a power sunroof, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, three-zone climate control, a surround-view monitor system, a wireless charging pad, and LED ambient lighting.

LHD 2025 Kia Carnival used for reference

With the refreshed people carrier now making its way to Indonesia, perhaps it might not take long for Kia Philippines to bring the electrified Carnival into the country soon. However, we might get the Sorento PHEV first according to our insider as the company is already busy making the necessary preparations for its eventual launch. Hopefully, the electrified Carnival is not far behind.