Kia’s family favourite, the Sedona, is the recipient of the company’s 2,2-litre turbodiesel engine, which replaces the old 2,9 model. In addition to the new powerplant, the Sedona VQ also gets a new transmission and a raft of new features.
The 2,2-litre motor is no stranger to the South African market, as it already doing service in the Sorento – a combination we rate very highly too. It produces 143 kW at 3 800 r/min and 436 N.m of torque at 1 800 r/min. The engine is more powerful than the unit it replaces, quieter, and more economical while also emitting less CO2 per km.
The front wheels are driven through a six-speed automatic transmission, which is the only one available with the Sedona VQ. The system uses processors and a powertrain control unit to predict preferred throttle response and provide smoother gearshifts.
Features include Bluetooth connectivity to complement the six-CD/radio front-loader with MP3 compatibility and USB ports. The electric tailgate now also features remote opening from a switch on the tailgate itself as well as the remote key fob.
The Kia Sedona VQ costs R419 995, and comes standard with a five-year/100 000 km warranty as well as a five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan. If your hurry, you could take advantage of a limited special offer, which includes a free Jurgens trailer and towbar to the value of R13 000 with your purchase.