u/HiDyez

With the new guy’s arrival eminent, it was time to prep the minivan for its newest phase of life! Such a sweet idea and really adds to the coziness of the Carnival.

We’ve hit our first 1,000 miles in our 2026 Hybrid SXP and I’m envious of everyone posting here averaging 30+ MPG because we aren’t even sniffing that. Coming from a Yukon, it’s A LOT better than what we’re accustomed to, but I want to take full advantage of this hybrid power train and get the best MPG possible so here I am asking for your tips and tricks.

For context
- live in west TX (flat land)
- wife is primary driver and a stay at home mom, daily commute for her is taking son to park, running a few errands around town
- may travel 150 miles every other weekend to visit in laws
- one major trip in the vehicle so far (first 300 miles bringing the Kia home)
- I try to stay in EV mode and “pulse & glide” but my wife just drives lol

What are we doing wrong?! 🤣

9/10.
168 grams
Field tested, too beefy for my noodle arm lol

Trades: Jerm Thundy (168-172g), Ethos Praxis/Muse (175+)

SX Prestige with the light grey and blue

And made my wife a carnibabe!

2026 Hybrid SXP

Traded in a 2025 Yukon for better fuel economy, easier access to the rear seating and cargo space (welcoming our second child in October) and a lower interest rate.

Initially drove both the Carnival and Toyota Sienna. Enjoyed both, and spent the next month shopping around on both models. Would have spent more on Sienna for the same features/equipment, and in my opinion, a significant difference in ride quality. Not to mention they weren’t nearly as available (which is believe is intentionally done by Toyota).

Drove 3.5 hours from my hometown to get this one in Panthera metal. $2250 off MSRP (including a $750 rebate) and the best value on my trade (by $3000). Thanks to University Kia in Waco for making it an easy transaction.

Already got the Lasfit floor liners on the way (deal on theirs is better than the 3W) and window tint scheduled!