2021 Kia Sedona: A Trim Comparison

As is the case with many of Kia’s vehicle offerings, the 2019 Sedona minivan comes packed with many technology and safety features at great price points. Where it falls short, compared to its competitors, is an interior that is less flexible. When some automakers offer minivans with seats that fold flat into the floor, that lack of configuring stands out on the Kia.

Kia Sedona Trims

There may only be four trim options to choose from, but they cover all types of buyers: from budget-conscious to luxury-loving. We explore what each trim comes with and which one gives most buyers the best bang for their buck.

L

The first trim option is the 2019 Kia Sedona L. It features a 3.3L V6 engine, the only engine option across all Sedona trims. It’s capable of 276 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque. It’s certainly adequate for school drop-offs and running errands, but more powerful engines are also offered by competitors. All trims are also front-wheel-drive, another unfortunate ding when comparing with competitors or even SUVs.

A nifty feature that parents will love is the Trico Fabric seating with YES Essentials Fabric Treatment. This cloth will repel stains, odors, and static. Spills will no longer be a headache! The Sedona L will only carry seven passengers, however. Second-row captain’s chairs can’t be replaced for a 3-passenger bench seat unless you spring for a more expensive trim.

Up front on the dash, drivers will find a 7-in color touchscreen display that has Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibilities. There is also a rear-camera display and remote keyless entry. Perhaps the best news is that an array of safety features available standard on every trim. Vehicle Stability Management is one of the few safety features reserved for upper trims. The starting MSRP for this trim is $27,200.

LX

The first trim option is the 2021 Kia Sedona LX. It features a 3.3L V6 engine, the only engine option across all Sedona trims. It’s capable of 276 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque. It’s certainly adequate for school drop-offs and running errands, but more powerful engines are also offered by competitors. All trims are also front-wheel-drive, another unfortunate ding when comparing with competitors or even SUVs.

Up front on the dash, drivers will find a 7-in color touchscreen display that has Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibilities. There is also a rear-camera display and remote keyless entry. Perhaps the best news is that an array of safety features available standard on every trim. Other features of this trim include dual power-sliding doors and rear privacy glass. The Sedona LX can also accommodate 8 passengers thanks to a three-person bench second row. Even the driver’s seat is upgraded to eight-way power-adjustable. Audio output is a six-speaker system.

EX

The 2021 Kia Sedona EX is, in our minds, the best mix of features and price point. It has the things most buyers are looking for without a sky-high price point. We suggest it for most people looking to make a Sedona purchase.

The Sedona EX comes with roof rails, which will be helpful for family road trips. It also rides on larger 18-inch alloy wheels. It even has smart rear sliding door handles. Inside the cabin, the seats are upgraded to leather trim, and the front seats are heated. The infotainment size remains the same at 7-inches, but a wireless phone charger is a welcome addition on this trim. Plus, blind-spot collision warning is added to the suite of safety features.

All of this comes in a vehicle that starts at a very reasonable $33,700.

SX

The top-of-the-line 2021 Kia Sedona SX starts at $41,500. It does have a few more luxury-focused features that set it apart from the Sedona EX, but we think the previous trim will suit the needs of most buyers.

Those looking for the pinnacle of minivan tech, however, will appreciate the Sedona SX’s smart power liftgate and Harmon Kardon Premium Surround Sound system. LED headlights and fog lights also provide better illumination and increase safety. Speaking of safety, this top trim adds Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist.

When it comes to upgraded tech, the steering wheel is heated and the infotainment system is upgraded to an 8-inch version that has voice recognition.

(featured images via Stellantis)