2025 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2025 Kia Carnival

• The Pacifica is trimmed down to 3 variations for 2025, making choosing one simpler than ever.
• The Carnival is a solid, well equipped minivan this year - it brings dependable practicality this year.
• The Pacifica brings killer good looks to match its new updates, making for a car that looks as good as it runs.

For 2025, Chrysler simplifies the Pacifica lineup, trimming it down to three well-defined trims: Select, Limited, and Pinnacle. The Limited is now exclusively gas-powered, while the Select and Pinnacle models offer buyers a choice between a traditional gas engine or a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Even the base Select trim steps up its game, now including features like a universal garage door opener, premium floor mats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and second-row one-touch power windows.

The popular S Appearance package, best known for its dark exterior accents, unique badging, and black interior with gray stitching, is now standard on the Limited and available on hybrid-powered Select models via the Premium Group. That package also bundles in a suite of high-end features, including the Safety Sphere Group (with parking sensors, park assist, and a 360-degree camera), the Uconnect Theater and Sound Group for rear-seat entertainment, an integrated center console with wireless charging, and a panoramic dual-pane sunroof. The result is a more focused Pacifica lineup with clearer value at each tier.

• Select - $44,445
• Limited - $51,565
• Hybrid Select - $53,050
• Hybrid FAV Edition - $54,975
• Pinnacle - $56,230
• Hybrid Premium S Appearance Pkg - $58,800
• Hybrid Pinnacle - $61,780

The new Select trim strikes an ideal balance between features and value in the Chrysler Pacifica lineup. It comes well-equipped with thoughtful comforts like a heated steering wheel, synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, second-row sunshades, and stylish 17-inch wheels. While front-wheel drive should suit most buyers just fine, those in harsher climates may appreciate the added security of the available all-wheel-drive system. As for powertrains, we'd recommend sticking with the standard 3.6-liter V-6—it's proven to be more reliable than the plug-in hybrid variant, which experienced a few hiccups during its 40,000-mile long-term test.

While many automakers have turned their backs on minivans, Kia remains committed to the segment, and the 2025 Carnival proves it. Following the 2022 debut of the Carnival nameplate, this year's model receives a meaningful mid cycle refresh aimed at keeping it competitive. Headlining the update is the introduction of a new hybrid variant, but the V-6-powered Carnival hasn’t been forgotten.

Though the standard 3.5-liter V-6 carries over unchanged, Kia has fine-tuned the package with subtle exterior updates and a more tech-forward interior. A revised infotainment setup now features dual displays, while the top-spec SX Prestige trim gains Kia’s new Connected Car Rear Cockpit system an entertainment suite that lets rear passengers play games, adjust climate settings, sing karaoke, and even watch ads for the Kia EV9. Seating remains flexible with seven- or eight-passenger configurations, and power continues to be delivered to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid may draw the spotlight, but the upgraded V-6 Carnival still makes a strong case for itself.