2025 Hyundai Palisade SE 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: 291 vs 287 hp, 21 vs 21 MPG.
The Palisade SE leads on AWD. The Carnival LX leads on $1,810 less. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 Hyundai Palisade SE | 2026 Kia Carnival LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $39,200 | $37,390 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 291 hp | 287 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-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 | 18.8 gal | 19.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | $2,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,356 lbs | 4,555 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 114.2" | 121.7" |
| Length | 196.7" | 203.0" |
| Width | 77.8" | 78.5" |
| Height | 68.9" | 68.5" |
| Safety | ||
| IIHS Award | TSP | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2026 Kia Carnival LX?
The 2026 Kia Carnival LX starts at $37,390, $1,810 less than the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE at $39,200. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $32/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE 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.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Carnival LX?
The 2026 Kia Carnival LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,810 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Carnival LX covers your needs; your priority is maximum passenger and cargo room.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE 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 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2026 Kia Carnival LX?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE produces 291 hp, 4 more than the 2026 Kia Carnival LX at 287 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE also leads in torque at 262 lb-ft vs 260 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Kia Carnival LX uses a 3.5L V6. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE, FWD on the 2026 Kia Carnival LX.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE bigger than the 2026 Kia Carnival LX?
The 2026 Kia Carnival LX is 6.3″ longer at 203.0″ vs 196.7″. The 2026 Kia Carnival LX has a 7.5″ 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 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2026 Kia Carnival LX have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE 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?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Palisade trims, Kia trims, Kia Carnival trims
- 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Palisade vs Carnival: What This Matchup Is Really About
A midsize SUV against a minivan is not a typical matchup, but buyers with flexible needs compare them more often than you might think. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE ($39,200) and 2026 Kia Carnival LX ($37,390) solve different problems at similar price points. The $-1,810 gap is about $32/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Kia Carnival LX uses a 3.5L V6. The 4 hp difference (291 vs 287) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE comes with AWD; the 2026 Kia Carnival LX uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Palisade vs Carnival
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE 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 has a 7.5″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE 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 $1,810 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 Hyundai or Kia or any dealership.