May 29, 2026Transmission & drivetrainSpeed controlEngine
While driving a brand new Kia Carnival Hybrid (purchased yesterday), I experienced a severe, life-threatening powertrain acceleration lag from a rolling start. My children were in the car and this was very scary. When attempting to accelerate into oncoming traffic on a wet road surface, the vehicle completely hesitated and dropped power for approximately 1.5 to 2 seconds, leaving the vehicle stranded in the path of oncoming traffic. When the power finally engaged, it delivered a violent surge of torque that caused the front tires to break traction and squeal aggressively. This software-driven hesitation and power-distribution lag represents a severe safety hazard.
NHTSA ODI 11740932
Apr 29, 2026Speed controlFuel system
-A "Check Hybrid system. Stop safely. " warning has come on 7 times now. The vehicle loses power and slows down abruptly before coming to a complete halt. This has happened on railroad tracks, the highway, and an intersection where my wife and children were almost hit by other motorists. The dealer has not been able to reproduce the code, but we have pictures and videos of said incidents. The vehicle has been inspected by Kia technicians and "fixed" multiple times, but this keeps happening and I will not risk my family's lives any longer. There has been zero warning every time this system failure has occurred. We are undergoing a buyback process with Kia corporate and are prepared to take legal action under Georgia state lemon laws. Thank you for your time.
NHTSA ODI 11734512
Jan 25, 2026Transmission & drivetrainSpeed controlDriver assistance
Driving on freeway with the heater on, Cold weather, car had multiple issue messages (transmission control unit and adaptive cruise control) as well as a check engine light come on as the car went limp and would not accelerate. Has to pull off of the freeway after nearly getting in multiple accidents due to losing speed from 65 mph to 30. Had the gas pedal all the way to the ground and the car would barely accelerate.
NHTSA ODI 11713243