Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2015 Kia Sedona SXL and initial comments from passengers was simply “a really smooth ride” was felt by all. On top of it all it seats 8 with good room all around. The rear seating folds down and away to increase the cargo area that otherwise is rather limited. But if you need 8 seats you may want to get a bus or leave some of the kids home when you go on vacation. OR, you will want to get a roof mounted cargo carrier that cost a few hundred bucks.
General Information: Parts – US/Canadian 2%, Korea 94%; Engine and transmission – Korea
It is assembled in Korea, Classification is Minivan. Cars from Kia: Cadenza, Forte, Forte Koup, Forte5, K900, Optima, Rio, Rio 5-door, Sedona, Sorento, Soul, Soul EV and Sportage.
Opinion:
Become a Safer Driver by Avoiding These Bad Driving Habits
Did you know that most auto accidents aren’t accidents at all? Most often, they are the result of driver error or inattention. Don’t make these dangerous driving mistakes.
Speeding – Slow down! Speeding is the most common bad driving habit and when combined with aggression, traffic congestion or driver inattention, it’s a dangerous one.
Stopping Suddenly – Avoid slamming on the brakes; you may catch the driver behind you unaware. Instead, focus ahead in order to anticipate potential hazards.
Running the Yellow – Never speed up when the light changes to yellow. If you have the option of stopping safely, slow down and come to a stop before the intersection.
Making Blind Turns – Always check your blind spot before making a lane change. (Blind Spot warning is a feature you may want to get on your next car).
Ignoring Conditions – Always adjust your driving to road conditions. Wet or icy roads, poor visibility and heavy rain or snow can seriously impact your ability to steer clear of danger.
Lane Weaving – Drive in a predictable manner. Erratically darting in and out of lanes is a risky maneuver that confuses other drivers and causes collisions.
Failing to Signal – Let other drivers know what you intend to do by signaling your turns and lane changes. (new features like Lane Assist will let you know you are changing lanes without using your turn signal).
Texting – Never send or read text messages while driving. Despite stricter distracted driving laws, many drivers are still guilty of taking their eyes off the road to check their phones.
Driving Drowsy or Drunk – Make it a rule to never drive drowsy or under the influence.
Tailgating – Make sure to leave enough distance between you and the car in front of you. Proper following distance in good weather is three seconds. (If you are not passing traffic on your right, that’s the lane you should be driving in. Other drivers tailgating you is a good indicator that you are not paying attention).
Handling & Performance:
Powerful and smooth handling that will jump out at you on the first ride.
Styling:
Personal but for my taste it is attractive with simple lines and especially convenient entry and exit and loading and unloading. Very nice easy to use fold into the floor rear 3rd row seats for added cargo space.
Fit and Finish:
Excellent.
Cost:
Competitively priced.
Conveniences and comfort:
UVO eServices is a subscription free OEM infotainment and telematics service communications system for a driving experience that is easier and more convenient. For example with your compatible smartphone and the eServices mobile app, you can program UVO to run regular diagnostic checks and then schedule a service appointment if necessary. In conjunction with the smart phone the cars location is registered and will guide you back to the car, and a host of other features with Maps, 911 Emergency services and personal sounds.
Consumer Recommendations:
I always suggest you include Kia and sister company Hyundai products in your search new or used. You won’t be sorry you did since these Korean cars will deliver the best bang for the buck.
Recognized Competition:
Kia Sedona SXL $37,000, Chrysler Town & Country $36,000, Honda Odyssey $37,000, Toyota Sienna $36,000.
Good News:
Comfortable, powerful, roomy and generally stylishly well done.
Bad News:
Only fair fuel economy because it is an 8 passenger comfortable Minivan (crossover).
Standard Equipment:
3.3 liter 276 horsepower V6 engine, dual continuous variable valve timing, 6-speed auto transmission, 19” Chrome alloy wheels, dual front side and front and side curtain airbags all three rows, LATCH child seat system, ABS braking system with brake assist, stability and traction controls, tire pressure monitor, tri-zone climate control with rear air conditioning, surround sound audio system with Sirius XM satellite, UVO eServices with premium Nav and back up camera, Leather trimmed seats, power driver lumbar support, 110 volt power inverter, fold in the floor 3rd row seating, remote keyless entry, steering wheel mounted controls for audio and cruise, dual power sliding doors, Drive mode selection, smart power tailgate, front and rear parking assist system, fog lights, sual sunroofs, heated mirrors with turn signal indicators, privacy glass and rear spoiler.
Gas Stats:
$2.49/ Gal avg. February 7, 2015
for more information.
17 City and 22 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $39,700.