February 11, 2005
Chicago auto show
2006 Kia Sedona minivan is roomier, more powerful
Chicago, Illinois – Kia unveiled the completely redesigned 2006 Sedona minivan. It offers more horsepower than its predecessor and is substantially larger providing more passenger room and versatility.
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New features found on the Sedona include a standard fold-flat-into-the-floor third-row seat and available power-sliding doors and power rear liftgate.
With an all-new platform, the new Sedona’s longer wheelbase and increased length and width contribute to the minivan’s nearly 15-percent improvement in passenger room over the previous Sedona.
The original Sedona, introduced in 2001, received the company’s first Five Star crash rating for each seating position from the U.S. government. The next-generation Sedona will offer six standard airbags (dual advanced front and front seat-mounted side air bags, and full-length side curtain air bags for all three seating rows).
The Sedona’s completely new 3.8-litre DOHC 24-valve V6 engine is expected to generate more than 240-horsepower – a 30-percent increase over the previous powerplant – and 250 lb.-ft. of torque. This new aluminum block engine is mated to a five-speed Sportmatic transmission.
Despite its increase in size, the new Sedona is expected to be significantly lighter than the previous model when compared on an equally equipped basis. With more power, less weight and a new chassis with 4-wheel independent suspension, the next-generation Sedona is designed to be more rewarding to drive than its predecessor and its competitors.
Pricing for the new Sedona, which will go on sale in late 2005, will be announced closer to launch.
