by Kia Introduces More Affordable Carnival High Roof Version for Korea
Kia is expanding its minivan lineup in Korea by releasing a new version of the Carnival High Roof. This model sits between the standard trims and the top-tier Hi Limousine, targeting large families and buyers who need extra interior space but not necessarily the full set of luxury options.
Design and Interior Space
The High Roof uses the same extended roof as the Hi Limousine, adding 270 mm (10.6 inches) to the standard vehicle height. The total height is 2,055 mm (80.9 inches). The steel roof extension, painted in the body color, has an aerodynamic shape, is finished with chrome, and features an LED brake light at the rear. The rest of the design elements are borrowed from the updated Carnival.
The increased roof height provides significantly more headroom, making it easier for passengers on the second and third rows to get in and out. The pillars and ceiling are finished in suede, and separate LED reading lamps are provided for rear passengers.
Trims and Features
Unlike the Hi-Limousine, which is also available with a four-seat interior, the High Roof is currently offered as a nine-seat vehicle. However, a seven-seat version will be added to the lineup later this year. Differences from the flagship trim include the absence of a 21.5-inch display for rear passengers, extended ambient interior lighting, as well as massaging and ventilated captain’s chairs with integrated footrests.
Despite this, the base equipment remains generous. The starting Noblesse trim includes full LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, eco-leather upholstery, Kia’s curved digital instrument panel, heated seats and steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and a full suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The Signature trim adds better upholstery materials, memory settings for the driver’s seat and side mirrors, as well as an optional premium Bose audio system and a head-up display.
The exterior color palette is limited to two options: Aurora Black Pearl and Snow White Pearl. Both are paired with a Cotton Beige interior.
Engines and Pricing
The powertrains are borrowed from the rest of the Carnival lineup: gasoline or hybrid. The naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 produces 290 hp (216 kW / 294 PS) and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid delivers a combined 242 hp (180 kW / 245 PS) through a six-speed automatic.
Prices for the Carnival High Roof start at 52,110,000 won (about $34,600) for the V6 Noblesse version and reach 60,210,000 won (about $39,900) for the hybrid Signature. For comparison, the Hi Limousine starts at 63,270,000 won ($42,000) and goes up to 97,800,000 won ($64,900). Kia has not announced sales in other markets, and the High Roof will likely remain exclusive to Korea.
Thus, Kia offers a more practical and affordable option for those who value space but do not need all the luxury features of the most expensive Hi Limousine version. This allows the company to reach a wider audience of buyers looking for a spacious family vehicle with improved ergonomics, without overpaying for premium features like massaging seats or large entertainment screens. The omission of some technological “extras” in favor of a basic but well-equipped cabin makes the High Roof a balanced choice for practical buyers.
