2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid vs 2026 Lexus TX

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid underwent a significant transformation, adopting a more rugged appearance reminiscent of the 2025 Kia Sorento midsize crossover SUV. The front fascia was redesigned to feature a larger grille, giving the Carnival a more SUV-like presence, although the headlights were repositioned to accommodate this change. Despite these updates, the Carnival Hybrid retained its van-like silhouette, which some found less appealing than its predecessor. The rear end was tidied up by relocating the license plate housing, and the addition of a skid plate-like trim piece further emphasized the SUV theme. Inside, the Carnival Hybrid maintained the premium feel of the previous model, with high-quality materials and a distinctive interior design that set it apart from other minivans.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of trim levels, with the 550h+ plug-in hybrid standing out due to its standard panoramic glass roof and striking Matador Red Mica paint option. The exterior design retained the large spindle grille, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and a full-width rear LED light bar. Inside, the TX provided a spacious third row with ample headroom and a recline function, making it comfortable for adults. The interior featured multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and a mix of materials that fell short of luxury standards. The redesigned door handles were a unique touch, but some felt they were unnecessary. Overall, the TX offered a comfortable ride with a focus on practicality and functionality.

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid featured a powertrain similar to the Kia Sorento Hybrid, combining a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a total output of 242 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. This setup was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing front-wheel drive. While the hybrid's acceleration felt comparable to the non-hybrid V6 model, it delivered power in a less-linear fashion, with noticeable torque from the electric motor at launch. The Carnival Hybrid offered three levels of regenerative braking, allowing drivers to recharge the battery on long descents. The vehicle's steering and suspension provided a smooth and quiet ride, even with larger 20-inch wheels, although the four-cylinder engine's exhaust note was less pleasing than the V6.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid boasted a powerful 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 engine and hybrid system. The vehicle offered multiple driving modes, including electric-only, hybrid, and gas-only, providing flexibility for different driving conditions. The TX's AWD system could distribute power between the front and rear wheels, enhancing traction on various surfaces. The ride was smooth and quiet, with a suspension that absorbed bumps and potholes effectively. The brakes were firm and linear, contributing to a comfortable driving experience. The TX's plug-in hybrid system allowed for a full battery charge in under three hours with a home charger, making it a practical choice for long road trips.

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid offered eight-passenger seating with sliding and removable second-row seats, while the third row could fold flat for additional cargo space. Optional VIP Lounge Seats provided a luxurious experience with power adjustments, heating, and ventilation, although they were not removable, limiting access to the third row. The Carnival Hybrid's interior dimensions remained consistent with the non-hybrid model, offering competitive headroom and legroom across all rows. The vehicle boasted 40.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and 145.1 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The interior featured a rotary shifter and a functional center console with easy-to-reach controls.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ provided standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control and heated and cooled front seats. The second row offered captain's chairs with a removable center console, while the third row was spacious enough for adults, with a recline function and individual cupholders and USB-C ports. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support, and the center console had a dual-opening lid that limited access. The TX offered excellent cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The vehicle could tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system was easy to navigate, although the switchgear's changing functions could be confusing. SX and SX Prestige models included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and Bluetooth connectivity, with over-the-air updates available. The vehicle offered a range of tech options, including an 11-inch head-up display, digital key functionality, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The Carnival Hybrid also provided a Wi-Fi hotspot and USB ports for all three rows, ensuring passengers stayed connected.

The 2026 Lexus TX came with a 14-inch color touchscreen that was user-friendly but had some quirks, such as the inability to manually input satellite radio stations. The steering wheel featured multi-functional buttons that were not labeled, making it challenging to switch between functions. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, although connectivity issues occasionally arose. The TX offered a range of subscription-based features, including a voice assistant and digital key. The vehicle's backup camera provided a clear view, and the available Advanced Park system could handle parking duties. With seven USB ports and wireless charging, the TX ensured devices remained charged during journeys.

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid's safety ratings were not available at the time of publication, but the 2024 model received mixed ratings from the IIHS. The vehicle retained its comprehensive suite of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. SX and SX Prestige models added junction crossing and lane-change assist functions, as well as Highway Driving Assist 2 for highway driving. The Carnival Hybrid also featured a 360-degree camera system and blind-spot camera system, enhancing visibility and safety.

The 2026 Lexus TX came standard with Safety System+ 3.0, which included forward collision warning, lane tracing assist, and traffic sign recognition. The Proactive Driving Assist feature applied brakes or steering when necessary, although it could be overly sensitive. The adaptive cruise control worked well once set up, although the steering wheel controls were confusing. The TX 350 and TX 500h received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, while the IIHS gave the TX an "Acceptable" rating for the small overlap front crash test on the driver's side and a "Good" rating for the passenger's side.