The new Kia Carnival is a facelift of the outgoing model, but it’s enhanced and brought directly by Kia Corporation via Kia Sales Malaysia.
The large MPV segment in Malaysia has just witnessed a major shake-up with the official arrival of the New Kia Carnival facelift. This marks the first official vehicle launch by Kia Sales Malaysia (KSM), the standalone National Sales Company of Kia Corporation.
With a bolder exterior, a high-tech cabin overhaul, and enhanced safety features, the new Kia Carnival is ready to defend its crown as the ultimate family and executive mover.
A New Era for Kia in Malaysia
The establishment of Kia Sales Malaysia signifies a deep commitment from Kia Corporation to the Malaysian market. Effective January 2026, KSM manages all nationwide sales, aftersales, and wholesale operations. The new Carnival, locally assembled (CKD) at the Inokom plant in Kulim, Kedah, embodies the brand’s new strategy of offering “best-fit” products tailored specifically for local consumer needs.
“Opposites United” Design Language
Following Kia’s global “Opposites United” design philosophy, the Carnival facelift receives a dramatic visual update. The most striking change is at the front, which now features a wider grille and a more vertical headlamp cluster. The Star Map daytime running lights (DRL) give the MPV a high-tech, futuristic signature that is unmistakably Kia.
At the rear, the design has been cleaned up significantly. The license plate housing has been moved lower on the tailgate to create a smoother surface, and the new Star Map tail lamps span across the rear to emphasize the vehicle’s wide and planted stance.
Versatile Configurations: 7-Seater and 11-Seater
To cater to different lifestyle needs, the new Kia Carnival remains available in two distinct locally assembled variants:
- 2.2D 11-Seater (The Versatile Family Hauler): Priced from RM188,888, this variant features a 2-3-3-3 seating configuration. It includes a central folding jump seat in the second and third rows, allowing for easier walk-through access to the back.
- 2.2D 7-Seater (The Executive Lounge): Priced from RM248,888, this flagship variant offers a more premium 2-2-3 layout. It is equipped with Premium Relaxion Seats in the second row, featuring a lateral slide function and “Relax Mode” for ultimate passenger comfort.
A Tech-Focused, Minimalist Interior
The interior has been completely refreshed with a focus on minimalism and modern functionality. Dominating the dashboard is a stunning curved panoramic display that houses two 12.3-inch screens—one for the digital instrument cluster and one for the infotainment system.
The climate and infotainment controls have been streamlined into a horizontally aligned touch-sensitive panel, creating a sleek, uncluttered appearance. Thoughtful family-friendly touches abound, including enlarged deluxe-size cup holders and ambient lighting that extends across the crash pad and door trims.
Proven Smartstream Power
Under the hood, both variants are powered by Kia’s reliable 2.2-litre Smartstream turbodiesel engine. This powertrain delivers a healthy 202 PS and a massive 440 Nm of torque, ensuring the large MPV moves with ease even when fully loaded.
The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. Despite its size, the Carnival remains efficient, with a combined fuel consumption rating of 6.5 litres per 100 km.
Uncompromised Safety: FCA 2.0 and Beyond
Safety remains a top priority for Kia. The facelifted Carnival is equipped with eight airbags, including a new center-side airbag designed to prevent front-seat passengers from colliding with each other during an impact.
The suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) has been upgraded to include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2.0 (FCA 2.0)
- Highway Drive Assist 2 (HDA 2)
- Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA)
- Lane Keeping & Lane Following Assist
- Blind-Spot & Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert (ROA)
Pricing and Ownership
The new Kia Carnival is available in four elegant colors: Meteor Gray, Snowflake White Pearl, Astra Blue, and Jet Black.
Every new Kia Carnival purchased through Kia Sales Malaysia comes with a 5-year or 150,000 km warranty, providing long-term peace of mind for owners. With its blend of bold design, refined interior, and top-tier safety technology, the new Kia Carnival facelift is set to remain the “Ultimate MPV” choice for Malaysian families and executives alike.
