Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid vs Kia Carnival Hybrid

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid underwent a significant redesign, adopting a more rugged appearance reminiscent of the 2025 Kia Sorento. The front fascia featured a larger grille, giving it an SUV-like look, complemented by distinctive daytime running lights that extended onto the hood. Despite these changes, the Carnival Hybrid retained its van-like appearance, which some found less appealing than its predecessor. The rear was tidied up with a relocated license plate housing and standard LED taillights on higher trims. In Canada, the Carnival Hybrid offered three trims: LX+, EX, and SX+, with the LX+ featuring 17-inch wheels and higher trims offering 19-inch options. The interior, largely unchanged from the 2024 model, boasted a premium feel with high-quality materials and a distinctive Bose audio system design.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid followed a conservative design approach, drawing inspiration from the popular RAV4. This resulted in a larger, more spacious version of the RAV4, capable of seating up to eight passengers and offering ample cargo space. The interior prioritized functionality, with a touch of luxury in the Platinum trim. However, the use of glossy hard plastics and unlined storage areas detracted from the overall quality. The climate system was user-friendly, but the infotainment interface had its drawbacks, such as a small volume knob and the absence of a tuning knob. Despite these issues, the Grand Highlander provided a practical and comfortable environment for families.

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid shared its powertrain with the Kia Sorento Hybrid, featuring a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and a six-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivered a total output of 242 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque, slightly less than the non-hybrid Carnival's V6 engine. Both hybrid and non-hybrid models were front-wheel drive, with the hybrid offering three levels of regenerative braking. The Carnival Hybrid excelled in steering and suspension, providing a smooth ride even on rough roads. However, the engine's exhaust note was less pleasant than the V6, and the hybrid's towing capacity was limited to 1,360 kilograms.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max prioritized performance with its turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine and electronic full-time AWD, producing 362 horsepower. This powertrain allowed for quick acceleration, aided by the absence of turbo lag thanks to the electric motors. The Grand Highlander Hybrid Max had a combined fuel economy rating of 8.8 L/100 km, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. During testing, it achieved 9.1 L/100 km on a mixed driving route. The ride quality was soft and isolating, though handling was secure only up to a point, with early tire squeal and understeer in corners. Visibility was excellent, aided by available camera systems, though the front camera's frequent activation was a minor annoyance.

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid offered eight-passenger seating with sliding and removable second-row seats, while VIP Lounge Seats were available for a more luxurious experience. However, these seats were not removable, making access to the third row challenging. The Carnival Hybrid provided 1,138 litres of cargo space behind the third row and 4,108 litres with the second and third rows folded. The interior featured a rotary shifter and a functional centre console with easy-to-reach controls.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid provided comfortable seating across all three rows, with a maximum cargo capacity of over 2,700 litres. The Platinum trim featured a Portobello interior with leather and artificial suede upholstery. Second-row captain's chairs with a removable centre console allowed for easy access to the third row. The Grand Highlander offered 586 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,761 litres with the second row folded. However, the rear doors' design posed challenges for families with small children.

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SX+ trim included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth connectivity, and over-the-air updates. Notable tech options included an 11-inch head-up display, digital key functionality, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The hybrid also offered USB ports in all three rows and a power outlet in the cargo area.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system integrated with a traditional climate control panel and offered access to Toyota Connected Services. The digital voice assistant responded accurately to commands, though the infotainment system's interface had some limitations. The Platinum trim included a head-up display, digital rear-view mirror, and JBL premium audio system.

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid's safety ratings were not updated at the time of publication, but the 2024 model received mixed ratings from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The SX+ trim added a 360-degree camera system and blind-spot camera system, which proved helpful despite the oversensitive blind-spot monitoring.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Proactive Driving Assist system was found to be irritating and was often turned off. The Grand Highlander received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but fell short of the IIHS Top Safety Pick rating due to headlight performance and small overlap frontal-impact protection.