2009 Kia Sedona: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Kia Sedona is largely unchanged. All Sedonas seat seven, have a 244-hp 3.8-liter V6 engine, and a 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate. Base models are 5 inches shorter in wheelbase and about 13 inches shorter overall than the uplevel LX and EX. All Sedonas have removable 2nd-row bucket seats that slide fore and aft. The 3rd-row seat in Base models is removable and splits 50/50. LX and EX versions have a 60/40 3rd-row bench that folds into a floorwell. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. EX is available with a Luxury Package that includes leather upholstery, sunroof, power-adjustable pedals, rear obstacle detection, and heated front seats. Power-sliding rear doors and a power tailgate are standard on the EX. A navigation system is newly available on the EX as well. DVD entertainment is also available. The Hyundai Entourage from Kia's corporate parent shares Sedona's basic design, but it does not offer a short-wheelbase model.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Long the choice as a family hauler, Minivans are easily the smartest use of space for passengers and cargo. These vehicles offer a fantastic blend of comfort, convenience, and safety features for the modern family.

Our Best Buys are the Chrysler Town and Country, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Honda Odyssey. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Entourage, Kia Sedona, and Toyota Sienna.

New for 2009 is the Volkswagen Routan.