Still one of the freshest minivans on the market, the Sedona sees little change for model year 2017, other than a reduction in the total trim levels available to buyers. The SX trim is no longer offered; the range now consists of L, LX, LX+, SX+, SXL, and SXL+.
With its bluff chrome-accented front end, the Sedona has a look that's more in line with a modern crossover than a family-friendly minivan. All Sedonas wear at least 17-inch wheels, and all other than the base L are made out of aluminum. At the top of the range, SXLs receive chrome-finish 19-inch wheels. LX+ trims and higher receive power sliding doors with integrated roller blinds, while the SX+ receives a hands-free power tailgate.
Those familiar with Kia's lineup will find the Sedona's powertrain to be familiar. The only engine offered is a 3.3-litre direct-injected V6 engine that produces 276 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. While not especially speedy, this engine is good for a low eight-second 0-100 km/h acceleration time. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard. As with most minivans, the Sedona is offered in front-wheel-drive only.
The Sedona's interior is particularly attractive with a clean dashboard design, and intuitive infotainment systems. All trims but the most basic L receive a 7.0-inch display audio system with Android Auto compatibility.
Second-row riders on SXL trim levels offer the best seats in the house; the second-row captain's chairs feature integrated leg rests, and slide and recline. Those up front also get ventilated front seats, upholstered in perforated glove-soft Nappa leather. SXLs also have a panoramic sunroof, too. Odd for a minivan, the Sedona is not available with a rear-seat entertainment system. Most trims get a convenient console-located 110-volt plug, though.
While the Sedona excels in passenger comfort, it is a bit behind the pack regarding interior versatility. Like most vans in the segment the third row of seats folds flat into the floor, but the second-row seats cannot be removed or folded flat. Furthermore, despite its fairly blocky shape, the Sedona is also not as spacious as some of its rivals. Total interior space is less than the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, or Chrysler Pacifica.
Despite the Sedona's luxury and technology, prices are relatively restrained. The most expensive models sell for less than $47,000, and include a 360-degree parking camera, emergency autonomous braking, and radar cruise control. Customers looking for more a more affordable option should note that the entry level L sells for less than $28,000. The Sedona L is still well-equipped and includes stain-resistant cloth upholstered seats, Bluetooth, a 5.0-inch display audio system with reverse camera.
