2008 Kia Sedona Review

The 2008 Kia Sedona is available in two wheelbases. The short-wheelbase (SWB) model is more than a foot shorter overall than the LWB model, with a wheelbase that's five inches shorter. Both wheelbases carry the same aluminum-block 3.8L V6 that makes 250 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. It is matched with a five-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic, which allows the driver to manually select the gears when desired. When properly equipped the Sedona can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

The Sedona has three rows of extremely versatile seating, including flip-and-fold second-row captain's chairs and a cleverly designed, split-folding third row that folds neatly into the floor for a completely flat cargo floor. Instead of a stowable third row, the SWB model has a split-folding, removable seat.

LWB Sedonas are available in two trim levels, LX and EX. The LX includes tri-zone air conditioning, a CD player, keyless entry, and power windows, mirrors, and locks. The EX adds on more luxury equipment, including fog lamps, power front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a trip computer, larger alloy wheels, and a roof rack. There is only one SWB model, which comes with much of the LX's equipment, albeit with the different seating arrangement.

Top options on the LWB model include power sliding side doors and a power liftgate. Power adjustable pedals, memory power accessories, and a 660-watt entertainment system with DVD player and 13-speaker Infinity surround sound audio are also available.

All Sedona models have six standard air bags, including front seat-mounted side air bags, full-length side curtain bags that cover all three seating rows, and active front head restraints. Anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), which helps optimize braking for various loads and road conditions, are standard on all Sedonas. So are stability control and traction control systems.

As with the rest of the Kia line, the Sedona has impressive warranty coverage including 10 years or 100,000 miles on powertrain and five years or 60,000 miles of roadside assistance and basic coverage.
Changes for the 2008 Kia Sedona are minimal, with the lower grille going from body color to black and the upper grille receiving a metal finish look. An auxiliary input jack replaces the cassette player. see less