2012 Kia Sedona

7.1 Surround Sound System
An available 10-speaker, Infinity audio system features front- and second-row center-channel speakers. It delivers impressive music and movie performance.

Sportmatic Transmission
Even though it isn't the most responsive manu-matic transmission, the ability to choose your own gears will be especially welcomed by those who also appreciate the 2012 Kia Sedona's relatively eager handling.

With room for up to seven passengers, the 2012 Kia Sedona minivan offers plenty of room in all three rows, as well as a flexible seating set-up that allows for an easily- configurable combination of passengers and cargo. The Sedona doesn't offer a second-row bench seat, instead providing two, removable captain's chair-style seats with reclining seatbacks and a one-touch fold-and-flip device. Third-row occupants enjoy a small but comfortable 60/40 split-bench seat that folds flush with the floor to create an impressive 141.5 cubic-foot cargo hold (second-row seats removed). Compared to other minivans, the 2012 Kia Sedona's interior plastics aren't as soft or attractively styled, and the color palate consisting of beige and gray is a bit boring. On the plus side, there are lots of storage areas, including a dual glovebox and covered side storage bins. Available features of note include the EX's dual power-sliding side doors and power rear vent windows.

Compared to the exterior styling of the Nissan Quest and Honda Odyssey, the 2012 Kia Sedona definitely looks dated. But, next to a Dodge Grand Caravan, it's actually not so bad. Remembering that styling is the least of a minivan owner's concerns; the Sedona includes a lot of noteworthy functional features. Large side glass and a massive front windshield provide excellent visibility for all, although the Sedona's sloping hood can make it difficult for some drivers to gauge the front of the vehicle. To help with rearward vision, the 2012 Kia Sedona comes with standard rear parking sensors to warn the driver of objects near the vehicle's rear bumper. EX models go a step further with a rearview backup camera and rearview mirror display. The EX comes with 17-inch aluminum wheels, while 16-inch covered steel wheels are standard on the LX. Other standard EX features include fog lights and roof rails.

The 2012 Kia Sedona's 3.5-liter, 24-valve, all-aluminum powerplant with continuously variable valve timing makes it one of the most powerful minivans. Combined with a responsive new 6-speed automatic transmission, the Sedona merges, passes and deals with traffic with ease, whether it's on the highway or headed to the supermarket.

3.5-liter V6
271 horsepower @ 6,300 rpm
248 lb-ft of torque @ 4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/25

The 2012 Kia Sedona LX has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting under $26,000, while a fully-loaded EX tops out around $34,500. Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price reflects real-world transaction prices in your area, so be sure to check it before you buy. Also, be sure to click on the Incentives tab to see what deals the manufacturer is offering. A comparably-equipped Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Town & Country or Honda Odyssey will cost thousands more. While Kia's impressive 10-year/100,000-mile limited warranty works in the Sedona's favor, predicted resale values that fall well short of the category's best can neutralize the Kia's up-front savings.

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