Kia’s growing electrified lineup has earned two major new honors. The all-new 2027 Kia EV3 was named Green Car of the Year®, while the 2026 Kia Carnival Hybrid earned Green Minivan of the Year® in Green Car Journal’s annual Green Car Awards. For drivers considering an electric or hybrid vehicle in Albany, the awards highlight just how many ways there are now to make the move toward an electrified Kia. From fully electric SUVs to plug-in hybrids and traditional hybrids, Destination Kia offers options for a wide range of driving needs.
Meet the award-winning 2027 Kia EV3
The 2027 Kia EV3 brings Kia’s electric technology into a smaller, practical SUV designed for everyday driving. The all-electric EV3 offers up to an EPA-estimated 321 miles of driving range on certain trims. When it’s time to recharge, it can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 31 minutes using a compatible 350kW DC fast charger. Its design takes inspiration from the larger Kia EV9, while its compact footprint makes it well suited for commuting, errands, and everyday driving around the Capital Region. The EV3 is expected to arrive in Kia showrooms nationwide in late 2026.
The 2026 Kia Carnival Hybrid earns its own award
Kia’s electric SUV wasn’t the only model recognized. The 2026 Kia Carnival Hybrid was named Green Minivan of the Year®, giving families another reason to consider an electrified vehicle. The Carnival Hybrid combines a turbo-hybrid powertrain producing 242 horsepower with an EPA-estimated 33 MPG combined. Inside, it offers seating for up to eight passengers. That combination gives families the passenger and cargo space they expect from the Carnival while adding the everyday efficiency of a hybrid powertrain.
Electric, plug-in hybrid, or hybrid: what’s the difference?
Going electrified doesn’t necessarily mean going fully electric. Kia offers three different approaches, making it easier to choose one that works with your driving habits.
Electric vehicles run entirely on battery power and produce zero tailpipe emissions. Kia’s current electric options include models such as the 2027 EV3, 2026 EV6, 2026 EV9, and 2026 Niro EV.
Plug-in hybrids can handle shorter trips using electric power while retaining a gas engine for longer drives. Models like the 2027 Sportage Plug-In Hybrid and 2026 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid give drivers flexibility between the two.
Hybrids combine a gas engine and electric motor without requiring you to plug the vehicle in. For drivers who want improved fuel economy without changing how they fuel their vehicle, options like the Carnival Hybrid offer an easy entry into electrified driving.
Explore electrified Kia vehicles in Albany
Whether you’re ready to make the switch to a fully electric vehicle or simply want to explore a more fuel-efficient option, Destination Kia can help you compare the different choices available. Browse our selection of new electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid Kia vehicles online, or visit Destination Kia at 760 Central Ave in Albany, NY to learn more.
You can also take advantage of Destination Kia’s online shopping tools to start the process from home. Explore available vehicles, use our How to Buy Online resources, get a trade appraisal for your current vehicle, or learn about the benefits of choosing a Kia Certified Pre-Owned vehicle. Ready to experience an electrified Kia for yourself? Browse our current inventory and schedule a test drive at Destination Kia today.
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.