In markets such as China, where luxury minivans are viewed as prestigious alternatives to large sedans and SUVs, demand for upscale people carriers has been steadily rising. South Korea’s contribution to this trend is the Kia Carnival Hi Limousine, a high-end variant of Kia’s popular minivan that has just received a series of upgrades for the 2026 model year. Originally launched in late 2020, the Hi Limousine quickly set itself apart as the most premium interpretation of the Carnival. Its most recognizable trait is the tall, roof-mounted extension which, despite resembling a storage box at first glance, is in fact an integrated high-roof design. This feature not only boosts interior space but also accommodates additional equipment that elevates comfort.
For 2026, the Carnival Hi Limousine incorporates the exterior design and technological updates already seen on the facelifted Carnival, while adding unique refinements and, for the first time, a hybrid powertrain option. On the outside, the refreshed model adopts a sharper and more commanding look. Vertical headlight stacks flank a larger, squarer grille, while redesigned alloy wheels and a full-width rear LED light bar modernize its appearance. The high roof section—constructed from press-formed steel—remains the defining element. Beyond its visual statement, this extension enhances aerodynamics while delivering valuable additional headroom.
The cabin experience is at the heart of what makes the Hi Limousine special. Buyers can choose from four-, seven-, or nine-seat layouts arranged across two or three rows. The flagship configuration is the four-seat Signature trim, which offers ultimate indulgence for passengers. This version equips the rear with lounge-like captain’s chairs that include extendable footrests, reclining backrests, and massage functions to combat fatigue. It even goes a step further by providing a built-in foot massager and dedicated shoe storage.
Rear passengers are surrounded by luxury amenities. A large 21.5-inch roof-mounted screen with updated graphics serves as the centerpiece for in-car entertainment. Complementing it is a 7-inch touchscreen controller in the center console, wireless charging pads, folding tables, a coat hanger, and even a refrigerator. Customers can also specify a 12-speaker Bose audio system for a richer sound experience. Subtle but meaningful updates for 2026 include thicker floor mats with a striped pattern, pleated curtains with additional stitching, and ambient mood lighting that now remembers the driver’s preferred settings. A “starry sky” roof lamp enhances the upscale atmosphere. Ride comfort has also been refined with improvements such as a new damper, softer padding, and slightly lowered rear seating for the four-seat version. These tweaks build upon broader suspension and sound insulation upgrades already implemented during the Carnival facelift.
Under the hood, the 2026 Carnival Hi Limousine comes with two familiar options. The first is a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine producing 290 horsepower. The second, new for this model, is a 1.6-liter turbocharged self-charging hybrid, delivering 242 horsepower. Unlike the standard Carnival, the diesel engine is not offered for the Hi Limousine.
Pricing reflects the vehicle’s premium positioning. In South Korea, the 2026 Carnival Hi Limousine starts at KRW 63.27 million ($45,900) for the newly introduced nine-seat Noblesse trim with the V6 engine. At the top end, the four-seat Signature hybrid commands KRW 97.80 million ($70,900). For comparison, the standard Carnival costs between KRW 36.36 million and KRW 52.11 million ($26,400–$37,800), underscoring the luxury-oriented nature of the Hi Limousine.
With its blend of bold design, indulgent features, and the addition of hybrid power, the 2026 Kia Carnival Hi Limousine cements its status as Korea’s most luxurious minivan and a strong competitor in a growing global segment.