Kia Sales Malaysia (KSM) has officially introduced the new Kia Carnival, marking the company’s first model launch since being established as Kia’s standalone National Sales Company in Malaysia.
As Kia’s flagship MPV, the latest Carnival arrives with a more assertive exterior design, a more polished cabin, and enhanced technology and convenience features. These updates strengthen its competitiveness in Malaysia’s large MPV segment, appealing to both family-oriented and executive buyers.
At the launch, Kia Sales Malaysia President and CEO Hyung Ho Kim said the introduction of the new Carnival reflects Kia’s long-term commitment to the local market. He explained that KSM’s approach focuses on offering products that are well suited to Malaysian customers, balancing quality, relevance, and long-term ownership value. According to him, the new Carnival represents an important milestone as Kia continues to expand its presence in the country.
Managing Director Emily Lek added that this launch represents a fresh chapter for Kia in Malaysia. She noted that the question “Kenapa Pilih Kia?” defines the brand’s renewed direction, describing the new Kia as one that emphasises thoughtful design, purposeful innovation, and meaningful experiences on every journey.
For Malaysia, the new Kia Carnival is offered from launch in two locally assembled (CKD) variants: the 2.2D 11-seater and the 2.2D 7-seater. This dual-variant strategy allows the model to cater to large families as well as customers seeking a more premium, chauffeur-driven MPV experience.
Both variants are powered by Kia’s 2.2-litre Smartstream four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, delivering 202 PS at 3,800 rpm and 440 Nm of torque from 1,750 to 2,750 rpm. Power is sent to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The Carnival records a combined fuel consumption figure of 6.5 litres per 100 km under the NEDC cycle.
Bolder Design
Developed under Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, the new Carnival features a more confident and modern appearance. The redesigned front end incorporates a wide grille, a cleanly sculpted bumper, and an integrated skid plate that contributes to improved aerodynamics and a more robust stance.
The distinctive Star Map daytime running lights and vertically stacked headlamps give the Carnival a high-tech, premium look. At the rear, a cleaner tailgate design is achieved by relocating the licence plate housing lower down, while the Star Map tail lamps align the Carnival with Kia’s latest global design language.
Interior
Inside, the new Kia Carnival adopts a minimalist yet functional cabin layout, designed to maximise comfort and usability. The 7-seater variant features a 2-2-3 seating arrangement, while the 11-seater adopts a 2-3-3-3 configuration.
The 7-seater is equipped with Premium Relaxion Seats in the second row, complete with a lateral sliding function for enhanced comfort. Fold-flat, sinking third-row seats further increase cargo flexibility. Meanwhile, the 11-seater includes folding jump seats in the second and third rows to improve access for rear passengers.
Ambient lighting runs across the dashboard, crash pad, and door trims, enhancing the sense of space and allowing occupants to personalise the cabin atmosphere. A curved panoramic display integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen into a single, seamless unit.
Physical controls for infotainment and climate functions improve ease of use, while enlarged cup holders accommodate larger drink containers, highlighting the Carnival’s family-friendly design.
Safety
Safety is a key focus of the new Kia Carnival. All variants are equipped with eight airbags, including a centre-side airbag that reduces the risk of secondary impacts between front occupants.
A full suite of advanced driver assistance systems is fitted as standard, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2.0, Highway Drive Assist 2, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Driver Attention Warning, High Beam Assist, and Rear Occupant Alert.
Pricing and Availability
The new Kia Carnival is locally assembled in Kulim, Kedah, and is available in four exterior colours: Meteor Gray, Snowflake White Pearl, Astra Blue, and Jet Black. Pricing starts from RM188,888 for the 2.2D 11-seater, while the 2.2D 7-seater is priced from RM248,888 (prices for Peninsular Malaysia, excluding insurance and road tax).
All new Kia Carnival models are covered by a five-year or 150,000 km warranty, whichever comes first. Interested customers can visit the official Kia Malaysia website or their nearest authorised showroom to learn more or book a test drive. The Carnival joins other Kia models available in Malaysia, including the Sportage and the all-electric EV9.
