Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs Kia Carnival Hybrid

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was priced at just over $50,000 for the base Hybrid LE, with the Limited trim reaching $61,800 in Canada. It featured a bold design with exaggerated forms, including scowling headlights and flared rear fenders. The interior was characterized by oversized elements like a 12.3-inch touchscreen and large climate control knobs, but the mismatched textures and tones, along with reflections from the display, made it visually overwhelming. Despite its quiet ride, the interior quality was questionable, with controls that felt inexpensive and storage areas that were unlined, leading to potential noise issues.

In contrast, the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid underwent a significant design overhaul, adopting a tougher front fascia with a larger grille and distinctive daytime running lights. While the Carnival Hybrid retained its van-like appearance, it offered a more premium interior with navy and grey tones, high-quality materials, and a cross-hatch pattern for the Bose audio system's speaker grilles. The cabin was mostly free of shiny plastic trim, reducing glare and fingerprints. The Carnival Hybrid's design changes were concentrated at the front, with LED taillights standard on top trims, but it still maintained a less handsome look compared to its pre-refresh version.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing 243 horsepower. It featured standard AWD, with one motor powering the rear wheels on demand. The Highlander Hybrid's electric assist motors aided acceleration, and an EV mode allowed for electric-only driving at low speeds. However, the gas engine's 175 pound-feet of torque limited high-speed passing power, and towing capacity was 1,588 kilograms. The SUV offered Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, but its soft suspension and CVT made for a less engaging driving experience. Fuel economy was a focus, with a Predictive Efficient Drive system, but real-world consumption was higher than expected at 8.2 L/100 km.

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid shared its powertrain with the Kia Sorento Hybrid, featuring a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a single electric motor, delivering 242 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. The Carnival Hybrid was FWD, with a six-speed automatic transmission. While acceleration felt similar to the V6 model, the turbo-four engine worked hard on inclines, and towing capacity was 1,360 kilograms. The Carnival Hybrid offered three levels of regenerative braking and a Sport mode, but Smart and Eco modes were preferred. The vehicle's steering and suspension provided a comfortable ride, and it remained quiet at all speeds.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid accommodated seven or eight passengers, with most models featuring second-row captain's chairs. The third-row seat was best for occasional use, and access was tight. Standard features included three-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats, with additional amenities in the Platinum package. The interior offered power-adjustable front seats and second-row sunshades. Cargo space was 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,387 litres with the second row folded. However, the centre armrest storage console was complex, and the optional all-weather cargo mat compromised utility.

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid offered eight-passenger seating with sliding and removable second-row seats. VIP Lounge Seats were available but limited third-row access. Interior dimensions matched the non-hybrid model, with 1,138 litres of cargo space behind the third row and 4,108 litres with both rows folded. The Carnival Hybrid featured a rotary shifter and retained a functional centre console and dashboard layout. Drive mode and seat heating controls were easily accessible, and the dashboard provided a convenient resting place for the driver's wrist.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display with various themes. The infotainment system featured an 8.0-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Connected service plans were standard, with Remote Connect and Drive Connect offering additional features. The test vehicle included a head-up display and an 11-speaker JBL sound system. While the infotainment platform was user-friendly, the graphics lacked contrast.

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid upgraded to 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 and Bluetooth connectivity. The infotainment system supported over-the-air updates and featured a voice recognition system. USB ports were available in all rows, and tech options included an 11-inch head-up display, digital key functionality, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with additional features on higher trims. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

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. The Carnival Hybrid retained its comprehensive driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The SX+ trim featured a 360-degree camera system and blind-spot camera system, enhancing safety.