Verified year comparison
What changed on the Kia Carnival?
Compare only the features our editors have verified. A blank cell does not prove the vehicle lacks a feature—it means the cited guide does not cover that year.
Official configuration changes
Powertrain and efficiency by researched year.
This table compares the complete EPA-tested configuration set for each researched year, independently of feature-guide coverage.
Documentation matrix
Verified feature coverage
Scroll horizontally on a phone. Select two years above to highlight them and see the documented differences.
| Feature and equipment note | 2026 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Let the Carnival Hybrid Adjust Coasting RegenerationVerified for the 2025 U.S.-market Carnival Hybrid when equipped with Smart Regeneration. | Not covered by this guide | Covered by this guide |
| Limit the Carnival Power Liftgate to a Saved HeightVerified in Kia's 2025 U.S.-market Carnival gasoline digital owner's manual for vehicles equipped with a power liftgate. | Not covered by this guide | Covered by this guide |
| Open the Liftgate Hands-Free With the Smart KeyVerified for the 2026 U.S.-market Carnival Hybrid when equipped with Smart Liftgate with Auto Open and a smart key. | Covered by this guide | Not covered by this guide |
| Remote-Start the Carnival With the Smart KeyVerified for the 2026 U.S.-market gasoline Carnival when equipped with the smart-key Remote Start button. | Covered by this guide | Not covered by this guide |
Important: this matrix compares published documentation coverage, not every factory option. The equipment/trim control filters the scope labels recorded on guides; it is not a factory build matrix. Confirm an individual vehicle in its window sticker, owner portal or dealer build record.