INTRO: a great value on the minivan battlefield, is the 2011 Kia Sedona. With space, amenities and high build quality to rival any other brand, the Sedona argues strongly to become a member of your family. Up to seven people can pile comfortably into the Sedona.
Two trim levels are available, the LX and EX, and all Sedonas now ride on a long wheelbase that's competitive with the rest of the class.
FEATURES: We drove a Sedona EX that featured standard seventeen-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, and projector headlamps that flank a revised grille. Heated body-color mirrors with turn signals are standard for Sedona EX models, as are the power sliding doors and rear liftgate. A rear-view camera enhances safety and eases maneuvering, too.
Inside, the Sedona EX features standard front and rear air conditioning, with optional climate control. Leather seating is an optional luxury touch, as well. The flexible seating layout includes a fold-away center console. Seven passengers are easily accommodated by front and second-row captain's chairs and a third-row bench seat. The Infinity audio system in our EX test car doubled as a touch screen interface for the navigation system and featured an auxiliary and USB input. Parents will appreciate a wide angle mirror to keep an eye on the rear seats. A sunroof lends an airiness to the Sedona's comfortably-sized cabin.
PERFORMANCE: An all-aluminum 3.5 liter V6 powers all versions of the Sedona. The engine's 271 horsepower and 248 pound feet of torque are managed by a six-speed automatic transmission, which sends power to the front wheels.
FUEL ECONOMY: Here are the EPA fuel economy estimates for the Kia Sedona
SAFETY: The Kia Sedona's standard safety equipment includes four wheel anti-lock disk brakes with brake assist, electronic stability control, and side impact door beams. Six standard airbags include front, and front-side airbags, as well as full-length side curtain bags.
PRICING/WARRANTY: The 2011 Kia Sedona LX carries a base MSRP of $24,595. The Sedona EX starts at $29,195. Sedonas are covered by a generous 10 year, 100,000 mile powertrain warranty.
CLOSING: Despite costing less than the competition, the Kia Sedona requires no sacrifice in quality and amenities. The Sedona is well made and well equipped, making it a must see when shopping for a minivan.