Even though today’s automotive industry is mostly about crossovers, the Korean manufacturer won’t give up on its well-known minivan. Known as the Carnival around the world, this super-practical model always used the Sedona name in North America and we expect the same from the new generation, even though some sources suggest the opposite. In any case, the 2022 Kia Sedona will come completely new, with improvements in every aspect compared to the outgoing model.
The biggest change will probably be the styling. The new model has already been presented and it shows a look that’s drastically different compared to what we used to see from Kia. In order to attract more buyers, it offers a more SUV-like appearance, with a boxier shape and a more rugged stance. The new platform is as important and it should bring improvements in terms of the ride quality. Still, we have no doubt that interior design will remain the main concern of most potential buyers. A good thing to know is that this aspect is bringing big improvements as well.
2022 Kia Sedona Design
The 2022 Kia Sedona redesign is bringing a lot of novelties but we will start with the basics. Of course, we are talking about the platform. As you may presume, this minivan will also switch to the company’s new N3 architecture, which debuted two years ago and underprints pretty much all mid-size models in Hyundai and Kia lineups. Of course, we expect it will provide big improvements in terms of comfort and ride quality in general, but it’s hard to tell anything without trying the new model.
On the other side, things are pretty clear in terms of the styling. The new look is a big departure from the previous generation. As the current market is mostly about SUVs and crossovers, it’s no wonder that the new 2022 Kia Sedona also features a shape that closely resembles that body style. Most laics would say that the new model looks more like an SUV than a traditional minivan. They aren’t wrong at all.
The front end has a lot of things in common with the new Sorento. The overall shape is boxy and looks quite bulky. This is more than just a visual impression. The new model is actually bigger than its predecessor. It is longer and wider, while the wheelbase gains 1.2 inches. That will definitely have a positive impact on the interior.
Interior
The 2022 Kia Sedona interior is another aspect where we are about to see big improvements. Considering that the new model will be bigger, we may expect more passenger space as well. Still, keep in mind that the current model stands pretty well in this aspect. We have no doubt that the reclining second-row captain’s chairs will remain in the offer, as well as the 8-seat configuration. We hope that the third row will be more spacious this time.
Bigger dimensions also mean that we may expect more cargo room. Still, keep in mind that the current model already stands pretty well in this aspect, so improvements probably won’t be drastic. For reference, the outgoing model is good for about 33.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 78.4 cubic feet behind the second row, and a total of 142 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.
Also, the new model will come with notable improvements in terms of quality. The new dashboard looks more attractive, while improvements in terms of materials are pretty obvious. Also, you may count on loads of new tech features, including things like a massive 12.3-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster etc.
2022 Kia Sedona Engine
Big novelties are coming under the hood as well. The new model will feature a bigger and more powerful engine. We are talking about the company’s new 3.8-liter V6. It puts out around 290 horsepower and comes in pair with 8-speed automatic transmission.
We can also hear rumors about the 2022 Kia Sedona Hybrid. At this point, the officials are still quiet but if we consider that rivals like Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica are already electrified, we may expect the same thing from this minivan. A plug-in hybrid would be a great option, the same system that will be used for the new Sorento. It is based on a 1.6-liter turbo-four, which comes in a combination with a 90-hp electric motor, with a combined output of 265 horsepower. Also, this system comes with a 12.4-kWh battery pack, which should provide around 30 miles of the all-electric range.
2022 Kia Sedona Release Date and Price
We expect that the 2022 Kia Sedona release date will be scheduled for the second half of the year. The outgoing model starts at around 31.000 dollars and we don’t expect that the new generation could bring some more significant price increase.