Overview:
This week we’re looking at the “Just off the Boat”, brand new 2002 Kia Sedona Mini Van from Korea. It is totally manufactured there and only 3% of the parts are from the US and Canada. Perhaps that explains why it can be so well priced for the quality vehicle it appears to be. It was even more impressive because I had just tested the Toyota Highlander similarly equipped for ten grand more.
Naturally one has to wonder if Korean manufactured means there will be problems. Not necessarily, but there is simply not enough history to feel the comfort you get owning Japanese built cars that are a part of our landscape since the early 1960’s.
My kids looked at it and because they have young families I think this is the best option to the yuppie and very pricey SUV.
Handling & Performance:
Excellent with one exception – it tends to bottom out over dips and needs improvement in the suspension. Lots of power and similar gas mileage in class.
Styling:
Rather common and a good “knock-off” of its competitors.
Fit and Finish:
Great imitation of the quality so common of Japanese cars.
Conveniences:
Front and rear air, lots of nooks and crannies and other features listed below you tend to get only in more expensive products.
Cost:
Fantastic.
Recommendation:
I believe this will be a real contender in this Mini Van segment that is growing in popularity, and for good reason. Take advantage of the Grand Opening and test drive this if you’re in the market for a Mini Van. Would I recommend it to my kids? You bet, because I believe the risk to be small in today’s readily available technology used by most in the world now with the benefit of a cheaper labor market.
The competition (Order of Preference**):
(1)Kia Sedona $19-21,000, (2)Dodge Caravan $16-33,000, (3)Chrysler Voyager $16-23,000, (4)Nissan Quest $23-27,000, (5)Toyota Sienna $23-28,000, (6)Honda Odyssey $24-28,000, (6)Pontiac Montana $24-34,000, (7)Ford Windstar $20-34,000, (8)Chevrolet Venture $21-33,000, (NI)Mazda MPV $21-26,000,.
Good News:
Great price, nice touches like fold up center console façade that allows space when you don’t need the cup holders etc. Lots of thoughtful nooks and crannies. 7 passenger seating, roomy.
Bad News:
Light suspension tends to bottom out easily, heavy rear door, bulky support members block view, only fair mileage.
Standard Equipment:
3.5 liter 195 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, dual sliding side doors, power steering, dual air bags, 2nd row child seat anchors on removable captains chairs, 7 passenger seating, dual air front and rear, power windows, locks and mirrors, AM/FM with Cassette and CD, 8-way power driver seat and 4-way power passenger seat, 3rd row sliding split folding removable seats, overhead console w/ trip computer, lights and clock, cruise control, 3 power outlets, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, wood grain accents, keyless entry system, cupholders for all rows and rear wiper washer.
Gas Stats:
15 City and 20 Highway MPG.
Pricing:
MSRP $19-21,000.
** – Order of Preference is based on a formula of price relationship to dimensions and standard features and the best overall warranty.
NI – Not included in ranking
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
