The minivan redefined
Minivans aren’t exactly known as the coolest vehicles on the road, but the 2016 Kia Sedona redefines what a minivan can be and proves that a minivan doesn’t have to be boring. It has all of the versatility that comes with a spacious interior, three rows of seats, and sliding doors, but with a stylish exterior and all of the latest technology features.
Performance
The 2016 Kia Sedona is offered with just one powertrain option, but it’s more than up to the task of handling any job this versatile minivan might be called upon to do. The 3.3-liter V6 produces 276 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque and drives the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.
Sedona L, LX, and EX models are rated at 20 mpg combined (18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway),* while SX models are rated at 21 mpg combined (18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway),* and the top SX Limited model is rated at 19 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 22 mpg highway).*
The efficient powertrain is matched by a well-engineered chassis. The unibody is made from 76 percent high-strength steel, which reduces weight without sacrificing rigidity. In fact, Kia says the Sedona has 36-percent greater structural rigidity than the nearest competitor. Any sports car driver will tell you that structural rigidity is important for handling, but it’s also the foundation for a sturdy crash structure.
Features
The 2016 Kia Sedona has standard seating for seven, but can seat eight depending on the model and seating configuration selected. There are five available trim levels, with prices starting at $26,400.**
The base Sedona L model comes fairly well equipped, with features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, steering wheel controls, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth®. Upgrading to the LX model includes all of the applicable standard features from the Sedona L and adds power-folding outside mirrors, eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a rearview camera.
One step up the model hierarchy from the Sedona LX is the EX, which includes a smart power lift gate, smart key with pushbutton start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and leather-trimmed seats with front heating.
The penultimate Sedona model is the SX, which adds LED secondary lighting, an eight-speaker Infinity audio system with subwoofer, and navigation. Finally, the SX Limited gets its own unique mesh grille, 19-inch chrome alloy wheels, center console, rear-sliding storage tray, a heated wood-trimmed steering wheel, and Nappa leather. The Technology Package on both the SX and SX Limited models adds seating for eight.
Design
The 2016 Kia Sedona returns with the updated styling introduced for 2015, which is supposed to imbue this minivan with more street presence than one would typically expect on a family hauler like this.
The Sedona features a wide stance meant to make it look more like a crossover with a distinct hood and a big, bold grille. Combined with Kia’s signature headlight design and LED daytime running lights, it gives the Sedona a confident look. Reduced front and rear overhangs, LED taillights, and a roof spoiler complete the design.
On the inside, the driver gets a three-spoke steering wheel with standard audio controls and a gauge cluster with central information display and optional “Organic LED” (OLED) ambient lighting. The horizontal design of the dashboard helps emphasize width, creating a greater sense of roominess, while the driver’s seating position was designed to maximize visibility.
The Sedona comes with standard seven-passenger seating with second-row individual seats that include Kia’s “Slide-N-Stow” feature—to get everything out of the way when it’s time for a trip to Ikea. All seating surfaces are covered in YES Essentials® stain-resistant fabric, which also boasts anti-static protection to reduce irritating electric shocks.
Eight-passenger seating with a second-row bench is optional, while the top SX Limited model gets a more luxurious seven-seat setup with individual second-row “lounge” style chairs.
No matter which configuration you choose, the Sedona comes with plenty of space. Even the third row has 34.9 inches of leg room, and there’s 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space with all three rows in place, or 142 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2016 Kia Sedona includes anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a rearview camera. It’s also equipped with dual-front, front-side, and full-length curtain airbags.
In addition, front and rear sonar sensors are standard on the Sedona SX Limited, while lane-departure warning and forward collision warning systems are optional on that model.
Verdict
The 2016 Kia Sedona combines the utility of a minivan with the style of a crossover. It's a new breed of minivan; one that both occupants and drivers can enjoy.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact or visit 3Birds Template at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516.
*Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, and your vehicle’s condition.
**Other options available for other trim levels. Some color package, and option selections may include, exclude, or require the purchase of additional options and packages. All exterior and interior images and specifications contained on this website are based on latest product information available at the time of posting and may vary slightly from actual product. See retailer for details.
Image Credit: Kia
