(May 4, 2013) IRVINE, Calif. — The Kia Sedona minivan returns to the Kia lineup for 2014 after taking a hiatus for the 2013 model year. Kia says the refreshed Sedona combines practical convenience, modern amenities and a long list of safety features, offering families on-the-go comfort, utility and peace of mind. 



Kia hopes its updated minivan will pull it back into contention with the heavyweights of the segment including the Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan and Toyota Senna.

Kia sold 24,000 copies of the Sedona in 2011. Sales fell off to 17,500 in 2012. The Dodge Grand Caravan sold 141,500 and the Chrysler Town & Country 111,744 in 2012.

Available in two trims, LX and EX, the 2014 Sedona incorporates an updated front bumper and grille, showcasing a sleeker appearance.  Other enhancements include 17-inch multi-spoke wheels (standard on EX, optional on LX), LED positioning lights and standard fog lamps across both trims. 

All interiors now feature a unique storage console for iPads and smart tablets, while the EX cabin offers standard leather trimmed seats, front seat heaters and automatic climate control. 

The 2014 Sedona remains packed with power with its standard 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 269 horsepower and mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic clutchless shifting.  The functional Sedona LX minivan begins at $25,9002, plus $850 destination charge, and offers a number of standard convenience features, including air conditioning, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth wireless technology with voice recognition, MP3 connectivity and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.  The uplevel Sedona EX begins at $30,900 plus destination charge.

Sedona offers consumers an extensive list of standard safety features on the 2014 model, including six standard airbags (dual advanced front and front seat-mounted side air bags, full-length side curtain air bags for all three seating rows); active front headrests; and a four-channel, four-sensor Antilock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), which takes into account vehicle load and weight distribution and applies the appropriate stopping force.

Sedona's 3.5-liter V6 engine is standard on all models  and is rated 17/24 mpg city/highway.