If you’re comparing the 2025 and 2026 Kia Carnival while shopping around Lancaster, PA, the updates between these two model years are worth a closer look. Kia didn’t reinvent the Carnival, but the 2026 version brings a few key upgrades that can help families drive more efficiently and comfortably. Learn more from Lancaster Kia below.
What's New?
The 2025 Carnival keeps its well-known formula: a bold SUV-inspired design, a lively and reliable 3.5-liter V6 engine, and seating for up to eight. Drivers commuting between York, PA, and Lancaster appreciate how it blends space, quiet ride quality, and modern tech. The 2025 model prioritizes practicality, featuring easy-to-use sliding doors, numerous USB ports, and helpful driver-assist features.
The biggest news for the 2026 Carnival is the addition of a Hybrid model in certain markets. This version delivers stronger fuel economy compared to the gas-only setup found in the 2025 model. For families in Ephrata who spend a lot of time on the highway, that added efficiency can make a noticeable difference. The standard V6 engine remains available for 2026, but the hybrid system offers a smoother, more responsive driving experience in stop-and-go traffic.
Tech updates also give the 2026 model a slight edge. While both model years offer Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wide touchscreen layout, the 2026 Kia Carnival brings small refinements to the infotainment system and driver-assist settings. These updates may seem minor, but shoppers traveling through East Petersburg, PA, or Reading, PA will appreciate the added polish.
Visit our Dealership
For drivers in Oxford who want the most efficiency and advanced tech Kia offers, the 2026 Kia Carnival is the best pick. If value and the established V6 setup suit your needs, the 2025 model remains a great option.
Learn more at our Kia Carnival research page from Lancaster Kia.