Kia's seven-passenger Sedona minivan was redesigned for 2006. For 2008, three models return to the lineup: the base short-wheelbase model, and the LX and EX long-wheelbase versions.
The Sedona is designed to compete with offerings from Honda andToyotaby offering similar features for less money. The longer model features a roomier cabin with seven-passenger seating, including a standard 60/40-split third-row seat that folds flat into the floor for cargo-carrying flexibility.
The minivan packs a 3.8-liter V-6 engine with 250 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque that drives the front wheels via a five-speed Sportronic automatic transmission with manual-shift capability. Its ride and handling benefit from a four-wheel independent suspension.
As befits a family vehicle, safety features are plentiful, including side and curtain airbags that extend across all three rows of seats, and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with stability control.
A host of amenities that today's minivan buyers have come to expect are all available, including power-adjustable brake and accelerator pedals, power-operated side doors and rear liftgate and a backseat DVD video player.
Changes for 2008 are few; some exterior trim turns from body color to black, and a rod antenna replaces the in-glass antenna, as Bridgestone tires replace the Michelins. Inside, the Sedona loses its cassette player and gains an auxiliary audio jack. The seat cushions are revised, and the second-row seats lose their coathooks.
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