Kia has unveiled the specs of the upcoming strong hybrid version of its popular Carnival MPV on the sidelines of the launch of the Sorento in India. Set to arrive in the coming weeks, the Carnival hybrid shares the 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine of the new Sorento SUV but uses a more powerful electric motor to better suit the bigger and heavier MPV. The 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine produces 180 hp and 265 Nm of torque, the same as the Sorento’s engine, but works in tandem with an electric motor that produces 73.4 hp and 304 Nm, which is 8.4 hp and 40 Nm more than the Sorento’s electric motor. Kia has yet to release the combined system output of the India-spec model, but the powertrain is expected to be paired with a six-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, similar to that of the Sorento hybrid, to send power to the front wheels. This makes the Carnival hybrid a more refined and efficient option to the existing 2.2-litre diesel variant that produces 190 hp and 441 Nm with an eight-speed automatic.
The exterior of the strong hybrid variant remains the same as the current diesel-powered Carnival. The large three-row MPV maintains its imposing presence, with a length of approximately 5,155 mm, a width of 1,995 mm, a height of approximately 1,775 mm and a wheelbase of 3,090 mm. It retains a modern front end, with full LED lighting, distinctive alloy wheels (typically 18-inch or larger, depending on the trim) and a practical sliding-door layout for easy access to the inside. The overall design is focused on a premium and almost SUV-like look, while also emphasizing family practicality and road presence.
Inside, the cabin carries over the luxurious and expansive layout of the diesel model without changes. The three-row layout is focused on providing seven seats in a 2-2-3 arrangement in the fully loaded Limousine Plus-style trim currently available in India. Two 12.3-inch screens take care of instrumentation and infotainment, with a 12-speaker Bose sound system providing excellent audio. Three-zone climate control keeps all the occupants comfortable, while the front seats are powered, ventilated and heated. Premium materials, ambient lighting and ample second-row captain seats with advanced adjustability also contribute to the overall premium experience. Safety equipment includes eight airbags, Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems, disc brakes on all four wheels and a 360-degree camera.
The current diesel Carnival is offered only in a fully loaded Limousine Plus trim, priced at Rs 59.65 lakh (ex-showroom). Pricing for the strong hybrid has not been announced, but it is expected to come at a premium to the diesel, based on the approach taken by Kia with the Sorento hybrid. As part of Kia India’s overall electrification strategy, which includes plans for multiple hybrid and electric models, the Carnival strong hybrid is set to attract buyers looking for a more efficient but equally spacious and feature-packed premium MPV option for family and long-distance use.