2026 Kia Carnival -- Anything NEW for 2026?? (Private Jet VIP Seats to BEAT Sienna??)

[Admin]

Key Takeaways​

• All‑new tech-forward interior with dual 12.3″ panoramic displays and next‑gen infotainment
• Optional VIP Lounge Seats in SX‑Prestige (and Dark Edition SX) feature one‑touch relaxation, heating, ventilation, leg extensions & ambient lighting
• Starting MSRP now begins at $36,990 (ex‑destination), with SX‑Prestige topping $53,090 for the VIP package
• Hands‑free power sliding doors/tailgate, up to nine USB‑C ports, Wi‑Fi hotspot & OTA updates for all trims

What’s New for 2026?​

1. Dual 12.3″ Panoramic Curved Displays
   • Standard touchscreen + digital cluster integration for a seamless cockpit
2. Connected Car Navigation & Rear Cockpit (ccNC/ccRC)
   • Over‑the‑air map/feature updates and in‑house dual 14.6″ rear‑seat streaming monitors
3. Digital Key 2.0 with Ultrawideband
   • Unlock/drive via smartphone or NFC card, shareable virtually
4. Enhanced Storage & Practicality
   • Under‑seat compartments, larger cupholders, fold‑in‑floor 3rd row for up to 145.1 cu ft cargo

Private Jet VIP Lounge Seats​

• Where? Available on SX‑Prestige and Dark Edition SX trims
• Features:
  • One‑touch full‐recline with powered leg extensions
  • Heating, ventilation & ambient mood lighting
  • Optional built‑in dual rear‑seat entertainment with embedded streaming apps & OTA updates
• Comparison vs. Sienna:
  • Toyota’s Pinnacle Package on Sienna offers “Executive Lounge” seats with similar recline, but Kia adds leg ottomans and ambient lighting, plus larger screens (14.6″ vs. 11.6″)

Infotainment & Connectivity​

• Standard: 12.3″ touchscreen w/ wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Available: Dual‑screen rear entertainment, nine USB‑C ports, two 115 V inverters, wireless phone charging, onboard Wi‑Fi hotspot, full OTA updates

Powertrain & Performance​

• 3.5 L V6 GDI — 287 hp, 260 lb‑ft; 8‑speed auto, FWD (AWD on EX only)
• Hybrid remains 1.6 L Turbo‑Hybrid (242 hp, 271 lb‑ft) with 6‑spd auto, tuned for efficiency & smooth ride
• Drive modes (Smart/Eco/Sport) and refined suspension geometry for comfort

Safety & Driver‑Assist​

• Standard Forward Collision‑Avoidance Assist, Blind‑Spot & Rear‑Cross Traffic Collision‑Avoidance, Lane Keeping & Following Assist
• Available Highway Driving Assist 2, Surround‑View & Blind‑Spot View Monitors, Safe Exit & Rear Occupant Alerts

Pricing & Availability​

Trim	MSRP (ex‑destination)
Carnival LX FWD	$36,990
Carnival EX FWD	$41,190
Carnival SX FWD	$46,090
Carnival SX‑Prestige	$51,090
Carnival HEV SX‑Prestige	$53,090

• VIP Lounge Seats are a $2,000–$3,000 option atop SX‑Prestige
• Arriving at dealers late 2025, with limited early allocations

Conclusion​

The 2026 Kia Carnival not only refines its tech and comfort but pushes minivan luxury with Private Jet‑style VIP seats that arguably surpass Toyota Sienna’s Executive Lounge—thanks to powered leg extensions, ambient lighting, and larger streaming displays. Starting under $37K and topping just over $53K, it delivers serious premium value in the segment.