Kia Sales Malaysia (KSM) has officially unveiled the new Kia Carnival, marking a significant milestone as the company’s first model launch since becoming Kia’s standalone National Sales Company in Malaysia. The introduction of Kia’s flagship MPV underscores KSM’s long-term commitment to the local market and sets the tone for a renewed Kia brand presence nationwide.
The latest Kia Carnival arrives with a more commanding exterior design, a thoughtfully reimagined interior, and a host of updated technologies aimed at strengthening its appeal in Malaysia’s large MPV segment. According to Kia Sales Malaysia President and CEO, Hyung Ho Kim, the new Carnival represents more than just a new product. It reflects Kia’s strategy of delivering vehicles that align closely with local customer needs by balancing quality, relevance, and long-term ownership value.
Echoing this vision, Managing Director Emily Lek described the launch as an opportunity for Malaysians to rediscover the brand. Framed around the question “Kenapa Pilih Kia?”, the new Carnival embodies Kia’s refreshed identity—one that is design-led, purpose-driven, and focused on delivering meaningful experiences throughout every journey.
For Malaysia, the new Kia Carnival is offered in two locally assembled (CKD) diesel variants from launch: a practical 2.2D 11-seater and a more premium-oriented 2.2D 7-seater. This dual-variant strategy caters to both large families and users seeking a more executive MPV experience.
Both variants are powered by Kia’s 2.2-litre Smartstream four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, producing 202 PS at 3,800 rpm and 440 Nm of torque available from 1,750 to 2,750 rpm. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels, the powertrain delivers a smooth balance of performance and efficiency, with a combined fuel consumption of 6.5 litres per 100 km under the NEDC cycle.
Visually, the new Kia Carnival adopts a bolder identity guided by Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy. The front end features a wide grille, cleanly sculpted bumper, and a harmonised skid plate that enhances both aerodynamics and visual presence. The distinctive Star Map daytime running lights and vertically arranged headlamps contribute to a high-tech, sophisticated look. At the rear, repositioned licence plate housing and Star Map tail lamps create a cleaner, more progressive design that aligns with Kia’s latest global styling language.
Inside, the Carnival’s cabin is designed around minimalism, comfort, and everyday practicality. The 7-seater features a 2-2-3 layout, while the 11-seater adopts a 2-3-3-3 configuration to maximise seating flexibility. Premium Relaxion Seats with lateral slide functionality in the 7-seater elevate passenger comfort, complemented by fold-flat sinking third-row seats that expand cargo capacity. The 11-seater, meanwhile, 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 while allowing occupants to personalise the cabin mood. A curved panoramic display dominates the cockpit, seamlessly integrating dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. Physical controls for infotainment and climate functions improve usability, while enlarged cup holders highlight the Carnival’s family-friendly design focus.
Safety remains a core strength of the new Kia Carnival. All variants are equipped with eight airbags, including a centre-side airbag designed to reduce secondary impact between front occupants. A comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems comes standard, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2.0, Highway Drive Assist 2, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Rear Occupant Alert, among others—delivering reassurance for both drivers and passengers. 
The new Kia Carnival is available in four exterior colours: Meteor Gray, Snowflake White Pearl, Astra Blue, and Jet Black. Locally assembled in Kulim, Kedah, pricing starts from RM188,888 for the 2.2D 11-seater and RM248,888 for the 2.2D 7-seater (Peninsular Malaysia, excluding insurance and road tax).
Every Kia Carnival is backed by a 5-year or 150,000 km warranty, reinforcing Kia’s focus on long-term ownership confidence. Interested customers can learn more via the official Kia Malaysia website or visit authorised showrooms nationwide to arrange a test drive. The Carnival joins the Kia Sportage and EV9 among the models currently available for booking, as Kia continues to expand its footprint in Malaysia’s automotive landscape. 
