New England’s Winter Roads Crowned Kia’s 2025 Carnival and Telluride — Here’s Why That Matters in Maryland

When you think about the ultimate test for a vehicle, you might picture a rugged off-road trail or a race track. But ask any automotive journalist in New England, and they’ll tell you the truth: nothing pushes a vehicle harder than a New England winter. That’s why the New England Motor Press Association (NEMPA) holds its annual Winter Vehicle Awards — and this year, two Kia standouts rose above the competition: the 2025 Kia Carnival MPV and the 2025 Telluride SUV.

Here’s the surprise twist: even though these awards were earned in icy, snow-packed conditions far north of Maryland, their meaning is clear for drivers here in Laurel and beyond. If a vehicle can conquer those extremes, you can count on it to handle everyday commutes, sudden downpours, long road trips, and whatever unpredictable weather comes our way.

Carnival MPV: A Minivan That Breaks the Mold

The new Kia Carnival isn’t your ordinary family hauler. For the first time ever, it’s been named Winter Minivan of the Year by NEMPA, praised for blending the comfort of a minivan with the confidence of an SUV. With its available hybrid powertrain, class-leading 287 horsepower, and smart Slide-Flex seating for up to 8 passengers, the Carnival is built to be more than just practical. It’s proof that family vehicles can also be bold, efficient, and ready for anything.

Telluride: A Winter Legend, A Maryland Favorite

Kia’s brand new Telluride has now notched its fourth Winter Vehicle Award, cementing its reputation as one of the most capable midsize SUVs on the market. Journalists applauded its refined design, three-row comfort, and X-Pro all-terrain capability. Whether you’re towing, road-tripping, or simply navigating Maryland’s wet spring weather, the Telluride offers confidence with up to 5,500 lbs. of towing capacity, torque-vectoring AWD, and a premium interior that feels like a retreat after any drive.

Why These Awards Matter to You

Awards are great, but what they really mean is peace of mind. If the Carnival and Telluride are trusted to withstand blizzards, black ice, and subzero temps, they’ll more than deliver when you’re driving from Laurel to Columbia, running errands in College Park, or taking a family trip out of state. These vehicles don’t just meet expectations; they overdeliver, season after season.

Test the Award-Winning Kia Lineup at King Kia of Laurel

Want to see why these models earned top honors? Visit King Kia of Laurel at 14921 Baltimore Ave, Laurel, MD 20707, and experience the Kia’s brand new Carnival MPV and Telluride SUV for yourself. Our friendly team serves Laurel, Columbia, College Park, Jessup, Elkridge, and the surrounding Maryland communities. Schedule a test drive online or stop by today, your next award-winning Kia is waiting.

Tags: Kia Carnival, Kia Telluride
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