Kia has in the past had a few major dramas, the Carnival sold here
was subject to serious engine seal failure resulting in about 90% of
owners having a new engine fitted under warranty within the first 2
years of ownership.


The 2002-2005 Sedona was a mixed bag here. It offered a lot of value
but had a problem ratio much like the Caravan/Voyager, which is to say
pretty awful. Thus far the new Sedona, using Kia's best engine here,
seems to be a killer van. They are selling a lot, even to previous
Honda and Toyota owners. The Koreans clearly mean business and are
chipping away at the massive Toyota market share. I seriously doubt
that the Sedona will hold up as well as a Sienna. It's too new and has
too many little techno-options, but the warranty should protect that
end. 2009 will see Hyundai/Kia's full on attack on the BMW and Mercedes
mid class. Sadly, the price of the Hyundai-Kia's are not so cheap
anymore. I still think a minivan should be 18-22K being a box on
wheels, so spending 30-40K on one seems crazy. I have to admit that the
loaded Sedona along with the Sienna are truly plush rides though,
easily a match for my Tribeca, but beating the Subaru for power and
features of course.

RB
35s5
NY