What's New for 2015

Introduction

The modern minivan class welcomes few newcomers. Perhaps that's because Honda, Toyota and Dodge/Chrysler have so thoroughly dominated the arena for years. Kia is not a newcomer, but its minivan has, at best, only picked at the fringes. The Korean automaker aims to change that with the 2015 Kia Sedona.

Recent spy photos reveal a large, airy cabin with what looks like excellent visibility. A strong character line from the front fender to the rear panel should give the new Sedona a crisp and creased look, an improvement on the current model's soft roundness. The Sedona also appears to wear a substantial grille, presumably with some variation of the brand's signature tiger-nose design.

The new Kia Sedona will likely get a new V6 engine rated at around 290 horsepower, similar to the engines in the Sorento crossover and Cadenza sedan. Expect a six-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels. We won't be surprised if Kia also pitches a "sport" version of the Sedona, not unlike the Toyota Sienna SE, equipped with a turbo four-cylinder for more low-end punch and quicker acceleration.

The Sedona's cabin needs to be resilient enough to endure a whirlwind of children, pets and cargo while still offering the premium, comfortable feel minivan buyers expect. Kia's newest models suggest this won't be a problem, offering some of the best bang-for-buck interior features and materials, including synthetic leather upholstery, heated seats and the impressive Uvo voice command entertainment system. The looming question is whether the Sedona will finally accommodate eight passengers.

Expect the Sedona to also offer most modern safety features, including two key features not offered on the current model: blind-spot detection and lane departure warning.

The 2015 Kia Sedona should go on sale around October. Check back for a full review, including specs, driving impressions and buying advice as it becomes available.