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The second iteration of Kia’s Sedona minivan arrives at dealers in late 2005 for the 2006 model year. Using a platform shared with the new-for-2006MY Hyundai Sonata (NF) and next-generation Kia Optima, the latest Sedona meets the competition nearly feature for feature. Larger and more upscale, this Sedona will go head to head with the new larger, more contemporary minivans from Honda, Toyota, and Nissan and likely do it at a lower price point.
The Sedona gains size, features, utility, and a bigger engine. Replacing the existing unit will be a 240+HP 3.8L V6 being introduced to the Hyundai/Kia product range in the minivan. In the Sedona, the V6 is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. This will put Sedona in the middle of the pack from a power standpoint, giving more than the General Motors minivans (200HP, Chevrolet Uplander, Pontiac Montana SV6, Saturn Relay, and Buick Terraza), Toyota Sienna (230HP), and perhaps the Nissan Quest (240HP), but likely less than the Honda Odyssey (255HP).
With the change, the third row now flips and folds into the floor and the second-row seats are also a one-touch fold setup, features which Kia could not have left out and still been competitive. Among the premium convenience features that will be optional on the Sedona are power sliding doors and liftgate, rear-parking sensor, power adjustable pedals, power sunroof, premium sound system with DVD player, and leather seating with heat for the front seats.
Expect aggressive pricing, as well as a high level of standard features, including six airbags (the curtain airbags extending to all three rows), ABS, triple-zone air conditioning, cruise control, and captain’s chairs in the second row. Stepping up to the next trim level adds items including a chrome grille, heated power mirrors, and the power sliding doors.