Kia Sedona
New flagship minivan from Kia
Korean car builder Kia Motors has opted to reveal the new Sedona, the fourth generation of the flagship Kia minivan with a phased teaser campaign by disclosing more details of the ‘Grand Utility Vehicle’ in the ramp-up to its Korean introduction this month. It is also under consideration for South Africa.
The new Sedona, shown here in Korean Carnival specification, builds on its predecessors’ heritage with a more architectural sense of solidity and an upgraded appearance that draws on the Kia design ethos. Matched with detailed, futuristic details and Suv-inspired design elements, the new model brings a stronger, more stylish presence to the mid-sized MPV segment.
The new Sedona now features what Kia designers call ‘symphonic architecture’. It has a shorter front overhang, and its already long wheelbase has been increased further for even greater space throughout the cabin, giving the car a longer, yet still dynamic silhouette.
Bold wheel arches, sharp lines along the body, and a unique ‘island roof’ design, with blacked-out A- and B-pillars, gives it a more sculpted appearance. The new, more futuristic ‘tiger face’ grille extends across the width of the vehicle and seamlessly integrate with the headlamps. Chrome trim above the grille, and the castellated edge of the upper grille forms its own character line around the face of the car.
The headlamps and LED daytime running has a unique light signature and the bumpers and lower air intake gives it a robust, Suv-inspired appearance. Further enhancing the Suv-inspired design, the Sedona is finished off with a metallic lower skid plate.
Engine options
Recent reports indicate engine options for the Sedona/carnival can include a hybrid drivetrain of the Hyundai Group, consisting a two-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine and electric motor with as combined output of 169 kw and
350 Nm of torque. Other options include a new 2.5-litre petrol engine delivering 207 kw and 420 Nm of twisting force and the existing 3.5-litre petrol V6 engine (206 kw/335 Nm) as used in the Sorento.
However, the model under consideration for South Africa will probably be the diesel model with upgraded 2.2-litre engine delivering 149 kw and 440 Nm of torque. The new Kia Carnival is due on sale in Korea in September, with global sales to follow thereafter. It is expected to arrive locally early next year.