While sport utility vehicles continue to command a sizable share of the new car sales picture, rising gas prices and other economic concerns have helped revitalize the mini-van market.
The 2009 Kia Sedona, a carryover design from 2008 shown here, is one minivan that continues to build an enthusiastic following of families who appreciate the quality and value the Sedona delivers at a price well below many of its competitors.
There's plenty of power in the Sedona, thanks to a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that puts out 250 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel economy for the Sedona is 16 miles per gallon city, 23 miles per gallon highway.
The 2009 Sedona is longer and wider than the Sedona it replaced in 2006. Plus, the clever three-seat configuration offered by the Sedona results in an expansive combination of layouts.
The third row seat folds completely flat into the floor. Plus, the four captain's chairs with folding arm-rests and the fold-down center console between the front seats all combine to give the new Sedona a level of space efficiency almost unmatched by any other minivan.
The seven-passenger Sedona is available in three trim levels: Base, LX and EX. Standard and optional equipment provide a varied choice of comfort and convenience features. Premium sound systems, rear entertainment center, dual climate controls for front and rear, and options usually found in luxury sedans like memory drivers seat and heated front seats are just a few of the extras that Kia hopes consumers will consider when tailoring their Sedona.
Safety equipment includes 4-wheel antilock brakes, electronic stability control, and a full array of airbags that, all told, yield it a five star NHTSA crash test rating in all four categories.
Base MSRP for the 2009 Kia Sedona is $21,245. A fully loaded model will top out at just over $33,000. The Sedona is backed by Kia's 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
The 2009 Kia Sedona need not take a backseat to any of its competitors. It's the complete safety, performance and convenience package...at a price that's hard to resist.