If you’re shopping for a stylish family hauler that doesn’t scream “minivan,” the 2026 Kia Carnival is probably already on your radar. Kia’s MPV continues to blur the line between SUV and minivan, and for 2026, buyers in the United States can expect subtle refinements, familiar strengths, and competitive pricing.
In this guide, we’ll break down the 2026 Kia Carnival price in the United States, along with expected specs, features, trims, and availability—written in plain English, without the fluff.
Note: Kia has not officially released final U.S. pricing or full specifications for the 2026 model year yet. The information below is based on industry expectations and the current-generation Carnival sold in the U.S.
2026 Kia Carnival Price in the United States (Expected)
The Kia Carnival has always been positioned as a value-packed alternative to rivals like the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, and Chrysler Pacifica. For 2026, pricing is expected to remain competitive with modest increases.
Expected Price by Trim (USD)
| Trim Level | Expected Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Carnival LX | $36,500 |
| Carnival LXS | $38,500 |
| Carnival EX | $41,500 |
| Carnival SX | $46,000 |
| Carnival SX Prestige | $49,500 |
What affects the price?
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Optional rear-seat entertainment
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VIP lounge seating
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Advanced driver assistance packages
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Destination and dealer fees (not included above)
Compared to SUVs with three rows, the kia carnival still offers more space per dollar, which is a big win for families.
2026 Kia Carnival Specs (US Market)
Mechanically, the 2026 Kia Carnival is expected to carry over its proven powertrain with minor tuning improvements for efficiency and refinement.
Engine & Performance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 Gasoline |
| Horsepower | 290 hp (approx.) |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 3,500 lbs |
A hybrid version has been rumored, but for the U.S. market in 2026, the V6 gasoline engine is still the most likely standard option.
Interior Features & Technology
This is where the 2026 Kia Carnival really shines. Kia focuses heavily on comfort, tech, and family-friendly convenience.
Standard & Available Features
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Dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays
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Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
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Tri-zone automatic climate control
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Power sliding rear doors
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Smart Key with push-button start
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Available VIP Lounge seating (recline + leg support)
Higher trims bring a near-luxury feel without luxury-brand pricing, especially in the SX Prestige model.
Safety & Driver Assistance Features
Safety remains a core strength of the kia carnival, especially for family buyers.
Expected Safety Technologies
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Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
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Blind-Spot Collision Warning
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Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance
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Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
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Lane Keeping Assist & Lane Following Assist
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Safe Exit Assist for rear passengers
Most of these features are expected to be standard across trims, not locked behind expensive packages.
Cargo Space & Seating Capacity
One of the biggest reasons buyers choose the Carnival over an SUV is space—and lots of it.
Interior Dimensions (Approx.)
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Seating capacity: 7 or 8 passengers
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Cargo space behind 3rd row: ~40 cubic feet
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Cargo space with seats folded: Over 145 cubic feet
Whether it’s road trips, carpools, or Costco runs, the Carnival handles it all with ease.
2026 Kia Carnival Availability in the United States
The 2026 Kia Carnival is expected to arrive at U.S. dealerships:
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Estimated launch: Late 2025 to early 2026
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Where: Nationwide Kia dealerships across the U.S.
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Pre-orders: Likely to open a few months before launch
Availability may vary by trim and region, especially for higher-end models.
How the 2026 Kia Carnival Stacks Up Against Rivals
Quick comparison highlights:
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More powerful V6 than most hybrid-only rivals
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SUV-like styling appeals to buyers who hate minivans
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Lower starting price than many three-row SUVs
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No AWD, which may be a downside for some buyers
Still, for most families, the value proposition is hard to beat.
FAQs: 2026 Kia Carnival (US)
What is the starting price of the 2026 Kia Carnival in the US?
The expected starting price is around $36,500, though official pricing will be confirmed closer to launch.
Will the 2026 Kia Carnival have a hybrid option?
As of now, a hybrid version for the U.S. market has not been officially confirmed.
Is the Kia Carnival considered a minivan or SUV?
Kia markets the Carnival as an MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), combining minivan practicality with SUV-inspired design.
How many people can the 2026 Kia Carnival seat?
It can seat 7 or 8 passengers, depending on configuration.
When will the 2026 Kia Carnival be available in the US?
Availability is expected late 2025 or early 2026.
Final Thoughts: Is the 2026 Kia Carnival Worth Waiting For?
If you want maximum space, strong performance, and modern tech without paying luxury-SUV prices, the 2026 Kia Carnival is absolutely worth considering. It continues to deliver where it matters most—comfort, safety, and real-world usability.
As official pricing and specs are released, the Carnival is likely to remain one of the smartest family vehicles on sale in the United States. If you’re planning a purchase soon, keeping an eye on this model could pay off in a big way.
