2025 Honda Passport EX-L vs 2026 Kia Carnival LX
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a midsize SUV or a minivan. Key numbers: 280 vs 287 hp, 21 vs 21 MPG.
The Passport EX-L leads on AWD. The Carnival LX leads on $5,010 less, 13.9″ longer. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Honda Passport EX-L | 2026 Kia Carnival LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $42,400 | $37,390 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 287 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 18 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 25 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.5 gal | 19.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | $2,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,236 lbs | 4,555 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.9" | 121.7" |
| Length | 189.1" | 203.0" |
| Width | 78.6" | 78.5" |
| Height | 72.2" | 68.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L and 2026 Kia Carnival LX?
The 2026 Kia Carnival LX starts at $37,390, $5,010 less than the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L at $42,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $89/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted; your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Carnival LX?
The 2026 Kia Carnival LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,010 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Carnival LX covers your needs; your priority is maximum passenger and cargo room; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L or 2026 Kia Carnival LX?
Both achieve 21 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L or 2026 Kia Carnival LX?
The 2026 Kia Carnival LX produces 287 hp, 7 more than the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L at 280 hp. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L also leads in torque at 262 lb-ft vs 260 lb-ft. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L, FWD on the 2026 Kia Carnival LX.
Is the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L bigger than the 2026 Kia Carnival LX?
The 2026 Kia Carnival LX is 13.9″ longer at 203.0″ vs 189.1″. The 2026 Kia Carnival LX has a 10.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (midsize SUV vs minivan), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Do the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L and 2026 Kia Carnival LX have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L comes with AWD, while the 2026 Kia Carnival LX uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
Can I cross-shop a midsize SUV against a minivan?
Yes, and many buyers do. A midsize SUV and a minivan solve different problems, so the comparison is less about specs and more about lifestyle. Think about what you need most: cargo room and passenger space. The spec table above helps you compare the numbers, but a test drive is where you will feel the difference in daily use.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda Passport comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Kia Carnival offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda Passport trims, Kia trims, Kia Carnival trims
- 2025 Honda Passport EX-L Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Passport and Carnival Stack Up
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L is a midsize SUV; the 2026 Kia Carnival LX is a minivan. They share a price range but not a purpose, which makes this comparison about lifestyle priorities, not trim-level features. The $-5,010 gap adds up to $89/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Passport vs Carnival
Both run the same 3.5L V6 engine. The 7 hp difference (287 vs 280) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L comes with AWD; the 2026 Kia Carnival LX uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L is designed around passenger space, cargo flexibility, and a higher seating position. The 2026 Kia Carnival LX is built to move the most people and cargo in the most space. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better. The 2026 Kia Carnival LX is 13.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Kia Carnival LX has a 10.8″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Kia Carnival LX weighs 319 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. Choose the 2026 Kia Carnival LX when you want to keep $5,010 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Carnival LX covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Kia or any dealership.