Journey's End: Do We Have a Deal?
So how does the new Sedona stack up? Kia has undeniably made a very competitive minivan that challenges the class-leading Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna on a feature-by-feature basis -- and trumps them on safety.That said, the Sedona lacks some of the more advanced options and trim levels that its more expensive competitors have. There isn’t an all-wheel drive option (available on some Toyota Sienna models), and the Sedona also lacks some of the advanced engine technology (like the Odyssey’s Variable Cylinder Management, or VCM) which shuts down cylinders at cruising speed to save fuel. The Sedona does have fold-flat third row seats, but lacks the convenience of the Stow and Go second and third row hideaway seats found in Chrysler and Dodge minivans.
Kia has clearly done their homework on the minivan segment, and the Sedona bears the fruit of that hard work. On value alone, a fully-loaded Sedona can cost $5,000 - $8,000 less than a comparably-equipped Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey or Chrysler Town and Country. Factor in the superlative safety features and the Sedona emerges as a must-drive for any prospective minivan owner and a stand-out success story for Kia.
- Visit the 2006 Kia Sedona Photo Gallery