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Older Pre-2013 Kia Sedona Overview And How To Buy At The Best Price
Even without the brand name pizzaz of top competitors, the Kia Sedona minivan was a hit right out of the gate. With its solid build quality, long list of features, comfortable ride, excellent crash test scores and abundant storage space, the Sedona offered what consumers wanted in a minivan at thousands less than similarly equipped rivals.
For shoppers seriously considering the purchase of an older minivan, the lower mileage Sedonas out there ... and they are still out there ... can make a viable and economical choice. So, here's some model information to help you narrow the field in identifying a year and model that may best fit your particular needs.
The Kia Sedona's second-generation was produced for the 2006 through 2012 model years. This version added power (an additional 50 horsepower) and shed 400 pounds compared to the earlier model. The result was a Sedona that could keep up with worthy competitors such as the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, while already offering similar amenities, comfort and safety ratings.
2007 and newer Sedonas in this generation can be found in either short-wheelbase (SWB) or long-wheelbase (LWB) forms. The longer versions come with a 60/40-split fold-flat third-row seat as opposed to the short wheelbase's 50/50-split removable bench. Under the hood of all Sedonas is a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 244 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque.
The SWB Sedona is only available in the base model. The LWB is available in a choice of LX or uplevel EX models. Both the base and LX models are well-equipped with standard features including full power accessories, cruise control, second-row captain's chairs, tri-zone air conditioning, keyless entry, an 8-speaker CD audio system and a fold-flat third-row in the LX.
The EX then adds upgraded cloth upholstery, an 8-way power driver seat, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, MP3 compatibility and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Used EX models can also be found with popular options such as leather upholstery, power-sliding doors, navigation, a rearview camera, a power liftgate and a DVD entertainment system.
All Sedona models in this generation come standard with a full array of safety features, including antilock disc brakes (ABS) with brake assist, stability control, traction control, front seat side-impact airbags, full-length head curtain airbags and active front headrests. And in government crash tests, the Sedona has swept all categories with perfect five-star ratings for both driver and passenger protection.
The long-wheelbase (119 inches) Kia Sedona is almost the same size as a Honda Odyssey. There's ample legroom in all three rows, however, the third-row is best suited for children due to its low cushion and tighter headroom. Cargo capacity, while several feet less than its top rivals, still comes in at a huge 142 cubic feet. The short-wheelbase Sedona is 5 inches shorter.
And while prices increased for this new generation, overall comparisons are still $2,000-$4,000 less than similarly equipped competitors.
Older Sedona shoppers should also note that the short wheelbase was not offered in 2006, while satellite radio, a USB audio jack and the optional navigation system became available for 2009. For 2010, standard features included a back-up camera for the EX and rear parking sensors for both the LX and EX.
The first-generation Kia Sedona was produced from its debut in 2002 through the 2005 model year. Kia's strategy with their new minivan was to offer the most features for the dollar. But as it turned out, the new Sedona also featured solid construction quality, excellent safety ratings and a smooth performance (although not particularly powerful) from its 3.5-liter 195 horsepower V6. This generation was also offered in well-equipped LX and more uplevel EX choices.
Over the years, the first-generation Sedona also earned positive reviews for its spacious cabin, comfortable seating and quiet ride. Only minor changes occurred during this production run, including minor revisions to the grille and taillights.
Overall, an older Kia Sedona is a solid minivan choice for those seeking a lot of features, comfort and safety for the dollar. And we can make a number of suggestions to help you save when buying one.
How To Buy At The Best Price
There are actually several different ways to buy an older Sedona at the lowest price, and even at wholesale. You can click on the links to each of the following methods to get the specific instructions.
First of all, here's a Lowest Price Used Car Buying Guide that details a super effective method, one that often beats down prices even to wholesale levels. And somewhat related to this, here's another excellent method that identifies Price-Distressed Cars Right On Dealer Lots. These are vehicles they are so desperate to unload they would welcome your wholesale offer.
In addition, you can also try the Public Car Auctions in your own geographic area. While there can be a lot of junk vehicles at these auctions, there are often absolute gems sprinkled in as well. This article reviews what to expect at open-to-the-public car auctions and how to locate them in your own area.
Also ... for those of you who might be interested in a brand new Minivan, if the price was crazy good, here's info on exactly How To Get The Best Price On A New Minivan. This works just phenomenally well.
