2015 Kia Sedona Preview

Introduction

While Kia refers to the redesigned 2015 Sedona as a "midsize multi-purpose vehicle," it is what the rest of us consider a minivan, dual rear sliding doors and all. To better compete with class heavyweights including the Honda Odyssey and Dodge Grand Caravan, the front-wheel-drive (FWD) Sedona features new styling, more flexible seating, extra safety and convenience features, and added power under the hood. A premium SXL trim level joins the lineup, which previously consisted of only LX and EX variants.

Exterior Features

Compared with its predecessor, the 2015 Kia Sedona is 1.6 in. longer, and significantly more contemporary. Like the Optima sedan and Sorento crossover, the Sedona greets the public with a prominent grille, as well as creased sheet metal that gives the body more shape than before, LED taillights and front accent lights, color-keyed rear spoiler, and a height-adjustable power liftgate. The whole package rolls on 17-in. steel wheels; 17-, 18-, and 19-in. alloy wheels are available.

Interior Features

According to Kia, the interior of the 2015 Sedona has been upgraded with soft-touch materials, extra leg room for all three rows of passengers, and a spacious front center console. Replacing the 2014 model's stationary second-row seats are what the automaker calls slide-n-stow buckets, which collapse and move forward, providing easy access to the 60/40-split third-row seat or a quick transition from passenger to cargo van. Lower trim levels feature stain-resistant cloth upholstery; the new Sedona SXL pampers passengers with Nappa leather. Other enhancements include a 2.1-amp USB port, 115-volt power outlet, and a cooled glovebox.

Optional Features

Kia has not released complete trim specifications, but expect upgraded audio, navigation system, and a power tilt/slide moonroof to be on the options list. They will be accompanied by new heated second-row captain's chairs offering La-Z-Boy-like retractable footrests.

Under the Hood

As part of its 2015 overhaul, the Kia Sedona rides on an all-new chassis and is fitted with a direct-injection, 3.3-liter V-6 engine that produces 276 horsepower and 248 lb.-ft. of torque, all of which is directed to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2014 model's 6-cylinder boasted 3.5 liters of displacement, but output only measured 269 horsepower and 246 lb.-ft. of torque.

Safety

Kia says buyers will have access to several safety features on the new 2015 Sedona, including forward-collision warning, 360-degree exterior camera system, intelligent cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Kia's minivan also offers 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, cornering brake control, and hill-start assist.

Technology

Complementing the 2015 Kia Sedona's new looks and versatile interior are a number of technologies designed to keep occupants safely connected while on the road. Among the highlights are an updated infotainment system that can send alerts when the van travels outside of a prescribed area or beyond a certain speed (handy for parents of new drivers), integration for apps like Pandora and Yelp, and iPhone voice commands courtesy of the Siri Eyes Free feature.