Kia Sales Malaysia (KSM), the standalone national sales company for Kia vehicles, has officially launched the 2026 Kia Carnival facelift in Malaysia. This marks KSM’s first model introduction since its establishment, signalling the start of a new phase for the brand in the local market.
The latest iteration of Kia’s flagship MPV arrives with updated exterior styling, a refreshed cabin, and enhanced safety and convenience features, continuing its positioning within Malaysia’s large MPV segment. The 8-seater variant has been dropped.
Watch: 2026 KIA Carnival Facelift CKD in Malaysia 2.2D 8AT
Overview
For the Malaysian market, the new Kia Carnival is offered in two locally assembled (CKD) diesel variants at launch:
- 2.2D 11-seater
- 2.2D 7-seater
Prices start from RM 188,888 for the 2.2D 11-seater variant, while the 2.2D 7-seater goes for RM 248,888. Both prices are on-the-road, without insurance.
Both variants are designed to cater to different use cases, ranging from large families to more executive-oriented buyers. Local assembly takes place in Kulim, Kedah.
Exterior
The new 2026 Kia Carnival facelift adopts a revised design aligned with Kia’s “Opposites United” styling direction. Up front, it features a wider grille paired with a more sculpted bumper and an integrated skid plate, giving the MPV a more modern and upright appearance.
A key visual highlight is the Star Map daytime running light signature, combined with vertically stacked headlamp units that contribute to a more contemporary and technical look.
At the rear, the design has been simplified with the relocation of the number plate to the lower section of the tailgate, creating a cleaner surface. The Star Map LED tail lamps complete the updated exterior treatment.
Exterior colour options available in Malaysia include:
- Meteor Gray
- Snowflake White Pearl
- Astra Blue
- Jet Black
Interior
Inside, the Kia Carnival focuses on practicality, space optimisation, and ease of use. The cabin layout differs depending on variant:
- 7-seater: 2-2-3 seating configuration
- 11-seater: 2-3-3-3 seating configuration
The 7-seater variant is equipped with Premium Relaxion seats for the second row, featuring a lateral sliding function for improved comfort. It also includes fold-flat sinking third-row seats to increase cargo capacity when needed.
The 11-seater variant features folding jump seats in the second and third rows, improving access for passengers entering the rear sections.
A horizontally oriented dashboard design helps create a more open cabin feel, complemented by ambient lighting across the dashboard, door trims, and crash pad. The centrepiece of the cabin is a curved panoramic display, integrating dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system.
Physical controls for infotainment and climate functions are retained for ease of operation, while enlarged cup holders accommodate larger drink containers.
Powertrain
Both Carnival variants are powered by Kia’s 2.2-litre Smartstream four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, producing:
- 202 PS at 3,800 rpm
- 440 Nm of torque from 1,750 to 2,750 rpm
The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, driving the front wheels. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 6.5 litres per 100 km (NEDC), balancing performance with efficiency for long-distance and family-oriented use.
Equipment
Safety is a key focus for the new Kia Carnival. All variants are equipped with eight airbags, including a centre-side airbag designed to reduce secondary collision between front-seat occupants.
Standard safety and driver assistance systems include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2.0 (FCA 2.0)
- Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA)
- Highway Drive Assist 2 (HDA 2)
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
- Lane Following Assist (LFA)
- Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
- High Beam Assist (HBA)
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCTA)
- Rear Occupant Alert (ROA)
These features are offered as standard across the range, reinforcing the Carnival’s focus on passenger safety.
Warranty & Aftersales
Every new Kia Carnival sold in Malaysia is covered by a 5-year or 150,000 km vehicle warranty (whichever comes first).
Customers can view the new Carnival at authorised Kia showrooms nationwide or explore the model via the official Kia Malaysia website. The Carnival joins other Kia models currently available for booking, including the Sportage and EV9.
2026 Kia Carnival Facelift Photo Gallery
