According to information from the Korean Ministry of Environment, the premium version of the Kia Carnival Hi-Limousine hybrid has completed noise and emission certification in the country. The launch of the electrified version of the highest trim level of the Kia Carnival will therefore take place in March.
Compared to the regular version, the Kia Carnival Hi-Limousine is equipped with many additional special features at a significantly higher price. This version starts at 62.5 million won ($1.15 million) for the 9-seater configuration, while the highest-end 4-seater version starts at 96.5 million won ($1.77 million).
The addition of hybrid technology will slightly increase the price, with the highest price for the 4-seater hybrid version being 103.6 million won ($1.9 million).
From the outside, the Kia Carnival Hi-Limousine has additional extended doors, high-mounted auxiliary brake lights, and a roof box. However, the highlight of this version must be the spacious cabin with an increased roof height of 305 mm.
In addition, the rear area features a convenient 21.5-inch entertainment screen. The Wi-Fi system from the phone network allows users to easily stream movies online.
Other highlights of the Kia Carnival Hi-Limousine include the integrated default air filter system, side and rear window blinds, map navigation application with Smart Cruise Control, hands-free driving assistance on the highway, unsafe rear occupant warning, blind spot warning, and pre-collision brake assist.
The highest-end trim level of the Kia Carnival Hi-Limousine is the Signature 4-seater, which features luxurious Nappa leather seats with integrated ventilation technology, back/foot massages, a storage compartment, and a dedicated 7-inch touchscreen control. The flooring in this version is also made of wood. The ceiling of this version features the “Starry Sky” – a high-end option shared with Rolls-Royce cars.
The Kia Carnival Hi-Limousine hybrid uses a 1.5L turbocharged gasoline engine combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a single electric motor. The total system output is 245 horsepower with 269 Nm of torque.
With such premium equipment, this version of the Kia Carnival will easily compete with the Toyota Alphard or luxury cars like the Mercedes-Benz V-Class.