2027 Kia Carnival vs. 2027 Chrysler Pacifica

The Quick Answer

• Carnival wins on price: from $37,490 versus $41,495.
• Pacifica wins on AWD: it's available on the Select, Limited and Pinnacle ($2,995). Every Carnival is front-wheel drive.
• Carnival wins on cargo: 40.2 cu ft behind the third row versus 32.3, and 145.1 max versus 140.5.
• Hybrid: the Carnival Hybrid (33 mpg combined) is the only hybrid of the two. Chrysler has discontinued the Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid.
• Close calls: both V6s make 287 hp; the Pacifica gets 1 mpg more (22 vs. 21) and tows 100 lbs more (3,600 vs. 3,500).

Carnival vs. Pacifica: Side by Side

2027 Carnival data from Kia; 2027 Pacifica data from Stellantis (prices effective May 5, 2026), its 2027 specifications and chrysler.com, as of October 2026. Pacifica warranty from Edmunds. MSRP excludes destination. EPA estimates; actual results vary.

Price and Value

The Carnival LX starts $4,005 below the Pacifica LX, and Kia's destination charge is $450 lower. The Carnival LX comes with captain's chairs, hands-free power sliding doors, Highway Driving Assist and a 12.3-in. navigation screen. Every Pacifica also has power sliding doors.

At the top, the Carnival SX Prestige ($51,590) is $3,320 less than a FWD Pacifica Pinnacle, with leather, Bose audio, a head-up display and optional reclining VIP lounge seats.

Seats and Cargo

The Pacifica's signature feature is Stow 'n Go: the second- and third-row seats fold into the floor, so you never have to lift them out. It isn't offered on the top Pinnacle trim. The Carnival's second-row seats slide and can be removed.

Measured the same way, the Carnival carries more: 7.9 cu ft more behind the third row and 4.6 cu ft more with the seats out of the way. The Pacifica has 0.9 in. more third-row legroom. The Carnival seats eight on every trim except the seven-seat LX; the Pacifica seats eight only on the Select FWD.

Power, Fuel Economy and Hybrids

Both V6s make 287 hp. The Pacifica is rated 22 mpg combined with FWD versus 21 for the Carnival, with a 2-mpg highway advantage.

If fuel economy matters most, the Carnival Hybrid is rated 33 mpg combined with 271 lb-ft of torque. Chrysler stopped building the Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid; 2025 was its last model year, so the Pacifica is now gas only.

Colorado Driving

• AWD: the Pacifica's biggest advantage here. If you need an AWD minivan, it's one of the few choices; with the Carnival, plan on good winter tires.
• Ground clearance: 6.8 in. on the Carnival versus 5.1 to 5.4 in. on the Pacifica, which helps with snow ruts, steep driveways and gravel trailhead lots.
• Towing: 3,500 lbs for the Carnival and 3,600 for the Pacifica with its Trailer Tow Group. See our Kia towing guide.

Warranty

Kia covers the Carnival for 5 years/60,000 miles basic and 10 years/100,000 miles on the powertrain for the original owner. Chrysler covers the Pacifica for 3 years/36,000 miles and 5 years/60,000 miles.

Where the Pacifica Wins

An honest comparison names the Chrysler's advantages:

• AWD is available.
• Stow 'n Go seats that fold into the floor (not on Pinnacle).
• 1 mpg better combined and 2 mpg better on the highway.
• Slightly more third-row legroom and 100 lbs more towing.
• An available built-in vacuum and rear-seat entertainment.

Which Should You Buy?

Compare the Carnival at Emich Kia

We stock the Carnival and Carnival Hybrid in most trims, so you can try both seating layouts. Bring your Pacifica quote and we'll compare equipment line by line.

• Family-owned since 1922 at 1260 S. Colorado Blvd. in Denver, a few minutes from I-25 and Cherry Creek.
• Not sure which trim has the feature you want? We'll check the window sticker on any vehicle before you visit.
• Schedule a test drive, apply for financing online or value your trade before you come in.

Carnival vs. Pacifica: FAQ

Drive the 2027 Carnival

Shop the Carnival and Carnival Hybrid in stock at Emich Kia, then drive one back to back with the Pacifica.