The 2020 Kia Sedona returns unchanged this year.
The 2020 Kia Sedona launches the sixth year of this third-generation model, a carryover vehicle with no changes whatsoever. This model is part of a small collection of minivans, which are probably better described as multipurpose vehicles. Although the market is shrinking, the Sedona is a compelling alternative to the crossover utility vehicles favored by families.
Despite no changes, the 2020 Sedona maintains a competitive footprint among minivan models. It comes in L, LX, EX, and SX trims. This front-wheel-drive model holds seven or eight. All trims come with a V6 engine paired with an automatic transmission.
Key Features of the 2020 Kia Sedona
There is a lot to say about the Kia Sedona. Auto Trends last reviewed a Sedona in 2016, but it was refreshed in 2018. You can find that review here.
1. Traditional minivan and utility vehicle alternative.
Minivans once ruled the family market, largely supplanting station wagons beginning in the 1980s. The Kia Sedona arrived in 2002, took a hiatus in 2013, and returned to the U.S. market a year later. As before, the Sedona shares the same platform as the Sorento crossover and the all-new Telluride. The difference with the Sedona includes its sliding rear side doors and fold-down second- and third-row seats. This model also has more cargo room than its utility vehicle siblings.
2. One capable powertrain at the ready.
You get one powertrain choice with the Sedona. Under the hood is a 3.3-liter V6 engine with 276 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels utilizing an eight-speed automatic transmission.
3. Room for seven or eight.
If you need eight-passenger carrying space, the Sedona supplies it. Only the Telluride offers eight-passenger space, so now you have two model choices from Kia fulfilling that demand. If you go the eight-passenger route, know that the very comfortable and versatile middle-row captain’s chairs are replaced by a split fold-down bench seat.
4. Driver-assist features available.
You’ll need to move past the L and LX models to find the driver-assist features most consumers want today. Blind-spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic collision warning, and parking distance warning are standard on the EX. The SX trim has all the remaining features, which are also available on the EX. These include: forward collision warning, forward collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, high-beam assist, driver attention warning, an electronic parking brake, and adaptive cruise control with full stop and go.
5. Lots of high-end exterior amenities.
If you want a well-equipped model, you’ll likely begin your search with the EX trim. Standard features include projector headlamps, alloy wheels, power-adjustable side mirrors with turn signal indicators, and rear LED lights. Upgrades include LED projection lights with dynamic bending light technology, fog lamps, LED positioning lights, heated side mirrors, roof rails, a sunroof, power-sliding side doors, and a power liftgate.
6. An interior worthy of consideration.
Once again, Kia saves the best amenities for the top-trim SX. Here, you’ll find leather seats, a dual glove box with cooling, and carpeted floor mats. But the other trims are equipped, not stripped as you’ll find full power accessories, air conditioning, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, and cloth seats. Among the options are three-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
7. Audio and tech features galore.
The base model has a four-speaker audio system, which isn’t much to get excited about. Beginning with the LX trim, you’ll find a six-speaker system, while an eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system is standard with the SX. Other features include Bluetooth, smartphone compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and multiple USB ports. Some trims offer third-row USB ports, wireless phone charging, and a rear-seat entertainment system. You’ll also find a seven- or eight-inch touchscreen display and connected car services.
Kia Sedona Considerations
Kia continues to maintain a strong position in the market, thanks in part to its product mix, much-improved reliability, value, and extended warranties. Indeed, the brand’s five-year, 60,000-mile basic warranty is one of the best in the industry. It is joined by excellent warranties for rust and the powertrain, giving Kia an important edge in a highly competitive market, which is also served by the Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and the Dodge Grand Caravan.
2020 Kia Sedona Specifications
| Kia | 2020 Sedona |
|---|---|
| Segment | Minivan or Multipurpose Vehicle |
| Price Range | $27,200 to $41,300 |
| Destination Charge | $1,045 |
| Standard Engine | 3.3-liter, V6 |
| Horsepower | 276 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 248 lb.-ft. @ 5,200 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Seating | 7 to 8 |
| Curb Weight (pounds) | 4,411 to 4,736 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 120.5 |
| Length (inches) | 201.4 |
| Width (inches) | 89.3 |
| Height (inches) | 68.5 |
| Head room (f,r…inches) | 39.8, 39.4, 38.9 |
| Leg room (f,r…inches) | 40.9, 41.1, 34.8 |
| Shoulder room (f,r…inches) | 63.9, 63.1, 59.4 |
| Hip room (f,r…inches) | 59.3, 66.1, 50.0 |
| Storage (cubic feet) | 33.9, 78.4, 142.0 |
| Gross vehicle weight (pounds) | 6,085 |
| Towing (pounds) | 3,500 |
| Payload (pounds) | NR |
| Fuel | regular |
| Fuel Tank (gallons) | 21.1 |
| EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) | 18/24/21 |
| Manufacturing Plant | West Point, Georgia |
Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.
See Also — At a Glance: 2019 Kia K900
Photo copyright Kia Motors.
Matt is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association and is a contributor to various print and online media sources including NAPA, CarsDirect, CapitalOne, and Driven Autos.
- 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid Review - September 5, 2023
- 2023 Volkswagen Golf R Review - August 24, 2023
- 2024 Acura Integra Type S Review - August 16, 2023