At the 2018 New York International Auto Show recently, Kia Motors America (KMA) unveiled the refreshed 2019 Sedona, revealing a more refined minivan that maintains the same functional convenience with ample passenger space and cargo, albeit with more style, technology, and amenities. Wearing newly designed front and rear fascias, the Sedona now sports a similar design language utilized on some of the newer models in Kia’s lineup, The Sedona is offered in five trim levels – L, LX, EX, EX Premium, SX, and SXL. The Sedona’s award-winning interior adds more refinement for the new model year. Up front, drivers are treated to a more modern center fascia complete with new graphics in the instrument cluster. The floor console between the front seats now features an available wireless charger2 and sunglasses holder to help minimize clutter, while an electronic parking brake is standard on SX and SXL trims. Rear passengers are also sure to enjoy a handful of upgrades designed with them in mind. An available USB charge point has been added to the luggage area and is accessible to those riding in the third row, Sedona’s available Rear Entertainment System adds 10.1-inch dual touchscreens located on the back of the front seats, replacing the outgoing model’s single overhead screen. Upgraded with a dual core CPU, the system now has smartphone-mirroring functionality and internet access via the user’s compatible smartphone4, meaning passengers can play their favorite online videos on the screens. Completing the RSE package are two wireless Bluetooth®5 enabled headphones with enhanced comfort and sound quality.
The Sedona’s CUV-like proportions continue to provide flexible seating in both seven- and available eight-passenger configurations, the Sedona continues to offer the choice of available second row Slide-N-Stow seats or second row “First Class” reclining lounge seats8 with footrests. The multi-purpose vehicle also keeps its available third row which provides the convenience of a split folding 60/40, in-floor-retractable design.
In addition to Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go (SCC), Rear Cross Traffic Collision Warning (RCW), Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW), and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Sedona now offers Driver Attention Warning (DAW). The Sedona’s tried and true Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) 3.3-liter V6 engine is now paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission that replaces the 6-speed automatic in the outgoing model. While power figures remain unchanged with the engine making 276 horsepower and 248 lb.-ft. of torque, the new transmission is designed to create a more seamless driving experience and help improve combined fuel economy figures. Pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle’s on-sale date.
