2026 Kia Carnival Hi Limousine: Luxury Minivan Returns With Hybrid Power and Lounge Comfort

Luxury minivans are experiencing strong demand in Asia, particularly in markets like China and South Korea, where customers often prefer them over traditional sedans or SUVs. Leading this trend is the Kia Carnival Hi Limousine, which returns for 2026 with updated styling, a new hybrid powertrain, and enhanced comfort features that make it one of the most premium minivans available.

Originally introduced in late 2020, the Carnival Hi Limousine quickly stood out thanks to its unique roof extension. While it resembles a storage box at first glance, it’s actually a high roof section crafted from press-formed steel. This design not only improves aerodynamics but also provides generous headroom and integrates additional luxury amenities.

Sharper Styling, Smarter Tech

For 2026, the Hi Limousine mirrors the facelifted Carnival’s upgrades, including a sharper front fascia, vertically stacked LED headlights, boxier grille design, new alloy wheels, and a striking full-width LED taillight bar. The tall roof remains its most recognizable feature, further emphasizing its premium positioning.

Inside, buyers can choose between four-, seven-, or nine-seat layouts, spread across two or three rows. The range-topping four-seat Signature trim is a true lounge on wheels. Rear passengers enjoy luxury captain’s chairs with massage functions, retractable footrests, reclining backrests, a dedicated shoe storage compartment, and even a built-in foot massager—ideal for long journeys.

Entertainment is equally impressive, with a roof-mounted 21.5-inch screen, a 7-inch touchscreen controller, folding tables, wireless charging pads, a coat hanger, refrigerator, and an optional 12-speaker Bose audio system. Kia has also refined the interior with thicker floor mats, pleated curtains with new stitching, and customizable ambient mood lighting featuring a memory function.

Comfort Comes First

Ride quality has been further improved in the flagship four-seater model. Kia added a damper, soft pad, and lowered rear seating height for superior comfort, complementing the already upgraded suspension tuning and sound insulation. These tweaks ensure that the Hi Limousine delivers a serene and smooth experience even on longer drives.

Two Powertrain Options, Including a Hybrid

The 2026 Carnival Hi Limousine comes with two engine choices:

• 3.5-liter V6 gasoline producing 290 hp (216 kW / 294 PS).
• 1.6-liter turbocharged self-charging hybrid with 242 hp (180 kW / 245 PS).

This marks the first time a hybrid option has been offered on the Hi Limousine, reflecting Kia’s push toward more eco-friendly mobility. Notably, the diesel option available on the standard Carnival is not offered here.

Pricing and Availability

The 2026 Kia Carnival Hi Limousine is already on sale in South Korea. Pricing starts at KRW 63.27 million ($45,900) for the nine-seat Noblesse trim with the V6, while the four-seat Signature Hybrid flagship tops the lineup at KRW 97.80 million ($70,900).

For comparison, the standard Carnival ranges between KRW 36.36 million and KRW 52.11 million ($26,400–37,800), highlighting the premium exclusivity of the Hi Limousine.