This is not directly Sedona related, but there are hitch accessories for 1.25 receivers (i.e., Class II). We found this out accidently when the dealer installed the wrong hitch on our minivan (not a Sedona). So we were allowed to either get the hitch for free or have them reinstall the right hitch for about $300. We figured free was free and we could always upgrade later if it was a problem. So far, it's been fine - we have a four bike hitch from Thule that fits the 1.25 receiver and can tow to the max rating of 3500 with the hitch. So 1.25 accessories, while harder to find, are out there.
Here is what Kia had to say about two items discussed in this forum. These items are the ECAT button and the slot above the coin holder. I also sent Kia a list of suggestions.
Thank you for your recent correspondence. The ECAT button shown on the brochure is not located in any Kia Sedona located in the United States. The button is used in Korea where they have small engines and the button control the automatic transmission with will provide more power / conserve fuel. A far as the slot above the coin holder, it is not used for anything at this time. The suggestions you have mentioned have also be forwarded to our product planning team in Korea for review.
I asked Kia why it seems that Sedonas with ABS are rare. Why doesn't Kia include ABS on more Sedonas, especially the EX models?
Here is the response:
The EX model Sedona, fully loaded, sells faster than the LX model due to the ABS brakes and the leather package. I am sure Kia Motors Corporate is aware of the pace that Kia Motors America is selling the Ex model vehicle. They will do everything possible to have more vehicles shipped to the United States so we can meet the demands of our buying customers. We apologizes if this has caused any inconveniences.
1) I am happy to say I am fortunate to have ABS, and with less than 300 miles on my Sedona, the ABS already greatly assisted in me avoiding an accident last week. They have already paid for themselves. 2) I am trying to get an average on MPG's for the Sedona and since you are a regular poster here would you mind offering yours? Excelent3
Message: I own a 2002 Mercedes C-Class and I have just bought a new 2002 Kia Sedona LX Van. I must have looked at SUV's and Vans for 4 months, and I am very impressed with the quality and value in the Sedona. It handles like a sports car, looks great, and is very versatile. I love the 4 back seats that can be snapped out and rolled on rollers to the garage. Fabulous stereo/CD. Just wish it had power sliding doors. Priced at 23k out the door totally loaded. You can't beat it.
The electronic taillight module, about $40.00 @ U-haul. Instead of overloading your existing tail light circuit with additional trailer lights, it uses a heavy guage wire back to the main power distribution point. The module only senses tail light activity, causing your new circuit to provide power to your auxiliary tail lights. Many new vehicles have very sensative tail light circuitry that will trip upon any additional load.
Great advice, it may be a better option than the T-connector for reasons given. Do you know who makes this module by chance? I look forward to towing with the Sedona, should be a treat. I plan on using a Class II weight distribution hitch when towing some of the heavier campers (2000lbs+)This van has so much acceleration without hardly even touching the gas pedal, I'm always looking at the speedometer...and I'm always over the limit! Should be awesome tow vehicle for a minivan.
Thanks you, excelent3 for asking for my Sedona EX's MPG. We haven't driven our Sedona in almost 3 weeks (I've been out of town) and only have 600 miles on it. I'll post our MPG rates for the city and highway after we drive our Sedona more. I think it's a great idea to have us compare average MPGs.
I was curious about post #457. Was the $23,000 spent on a US Sedona LX? That seems like a lot to pay for an LX model. For that price the author should have got an EX instead.
I copied and pasted that message off of another all models Kia board. Point being there are alot of people who have owned fine cars(including myself) who are appreciating the quality being built into the Sedona. It's a testimony to the Sedona wouldn't you say? I have the same EX model (Leather, Sunroof, Two Tone,Spoiler,Homelink and ABS) Paid exactly $22,885. I think I could have done even better but the exact vehicle I wanted was literally rolling off the truck while I was at the dealership and I couldn't find one with ABS in that color in a 6 state area, so I nailed it down. Easiest sale that salesman ever had.
Yes, $23,00 is too much for an LX. We bought ours for $19,000 out the door.
Excel, your question about having those plastic ridges down each side of the roof - no, we don't have them. We only have the usual pre-molded ridges that are a part of the top of the roof. So you think we ar our of luck for attaching that old roof-top carrier?
NEVER give up hope. What I would do is go to a reputable Yakima installer in your area, someone who has been doing them for a long time. I have to believe they could figure out a setup. You're not the first to have a roof with limited mounting options. Take your carrier with you and have them take a look at what you are trying to accomplish. All the best! Excelent3
We've had our LX for about 10 days now. We have 950 miles on it. Just got back from a 660 mile round trip to San Antonio. We got 21.5 mpg on the way there and 23 mpg on the way back. Our two tanks of city driving have both been 15.5 mpg. Everything is great except the check engine light lit up on the way back. I made sure the gas cap was on tight but it stayed on. I'll have to call the dealer on Monday. Also the van pulls to the left bad but the dealer is supposed to re-align it next week. Other than that we really love the van. Traded in a 10 year old Chevy Lumina for it so all five kids and the wife are very happy.
Thanks for being number 6 to post your MPG's. That's very impressive economy so early in the game with a full load on board! Once your engine is broke in it will be even better!
Hi, everyone. I've skimmed through almost all of the posts here, and I want to say thanks for the information that I'm reading. I've noticed that several of you have purchased Sedonas with leather. I'm thinking of buying a Sedona, and I'm having a hard time deciding between leather and cloth -- my wife and I have a 1-year-old and a 4-year-old. I don't want to start a leather -vs- cloth battle here... but I would like to know what you think of the quality of Kia's leather in the Sedona. Is it "good" leather, or does it seem like it might not hold up as well as the leather in a more expensive vehicle? Thanks for your help!
Well, I've driven 2 BMWs and a Volvo extensively. I would say the leather in the Kia is better than the bimmers and not quite as good as the Volvo, but more than satisfactory. I did not sample the Kia cloth seats, so I can't give you my opinion on that.
I personally would not add leather to a van that has everything else you need. In my case, the only van with ABS also had leather, and then the option cost only adds $850 to the sticker. As previously posted, there are some shortcuts - the headrests and armrests feel like vinyl, but so what.
I concur with Hoyahenry, on the quality of the Kia leather. As a seasoned RV dealer, I also know a bit about density of the foam in upholstery. Kia uses a very high density foam in their leather seats. Seat comfort/fatique is extremely important to me when choosing a vehicle. I personally, noticed a distinct difference in the cloth seats as opposed to the leather as far as firmness. I felt the leather seats were firmer. I addressed this with the two dealers I was dealing with and in both cases they agreed with me, and others had commented on it. Some feel more cushy seats are more comfortable, to each his own. Leather seats with time will form to your contour. From a maintenance stand point I like leather (I have 3 kids) for easy clean up. The Kia seats and backrest are leather. Seat sides, back, armrests, and headrests are matching "leather" engrained vinyl, a cost cutting measure, but functionally easy to clean and maintain. My Toyota Previa has very firm, cloth seats, and soil with normal use, with kids, I'm always shampooing them. I look forward to just wiping off the leather seats....easier to deal with, FOR ME. I live in Wisconsin where it gets COLD and leather seats are not always inviting to sit on! .....the bottom line for me was the 1)firmness of the seat 2) upkeep factor... . 3) I also absolutely love the smell of leather! Resale, (relatively speaking) the EX will do better. I believe the EX is outselling the LX in most markets, lots of value, something else to condsider! Excelent3
Anyone interested in posting their absolute HONEST MPG HIGHWAY/City please post. I will gather first 20 responses and continue to post survey until we get that number. Please be straight so we can get a good assessment what the average is. Please post hwy/cty mpg, mileage on vehicle, purchase date. We have 6 responses to date, NEED MORE!!!At conclusion I will post results with comments. Thanks! Excelent3
I've used this superb product for over 25 years. I clean and feed my in house leather upholstery once a year. Automotive, more depending on conditions. Lexol is a very good quality product and lasts, but for auto use maybe twice a year. Consider conditions: Sun exposure, heat, low humidity, etc. If your Sedona is exposed to the forces of nature, twice a year would be definitely be beneficial.
I posted earlier about my oil pressure light coming on, went to the dealer on thursday and he wanted to keep it. It was knocking a little at that time too. He said he hadn't heard a knock like that and the KIA hotline he called said they had an engine "expert" that would have to look at it. So, they rented me a car for the weekend and said to call Monday. Just got off the phone with the dealer. The NEW engine they ordered will be there today or tomorrow and I should have my van Wed. or Thurs. They'll keep paying for the rental until I get it back. Not feeling real good about this.
It is unfortunate that your new Sedona is requiring a replacement engine at this very early stage of ownership. Based on your post however it sounds like KIA and the dealership you are working with are taking care of your problem quite efficiently. I'de be happy about that. Thanks for posting, it kind of raises a flag. I can assure you every major manufacturer has had this situation occur, it's how well you get taken care of is all that matters! Looks like Kia is moving fast...which is a good thing. Thats what they promise and apparently thats what they deliver. Keep us posted.
Similar to my "It doesn't matter what you drive, but how you drive it." Post a while back, it is also important to have a good relationship with a good dealer.
That is probably more important than saving another $100 on the sale.
Yes, I am happy with how it's been handled so far. They promised it would be "good as new" when I get it back. They have taken great care to insure I'm not inconvenienced as far as a vehicle at no cost. So if I get a "good as new" Sedona back, I will be happy. I'll keep you posted.
Hmm......... beav3, many posters will be waiting with bated breath for updates of your experience. Here are some of my thoughts after a month of ownership:
-Got 15.7 mpg in town on a recent fill-up, using about 80% 93 octane gas. I had intended to measure mileage on both 87 and 93, because I'd found a fairly significant difference on a previous car. However, in reading the manual, they actually recommend using the lowest octane, at least during the break in period. Anyone have thoughts on that? -I've found it's taken about a full month and 800 miles for that new car "burning plastic" smell, noticeable when shutting off the car, to go away. I was just about at the point of worrying. -For new buyers or test drivers: watch yourself when opening the rear hatch. It's spring loaded, and I just about clipped my chin and bit off my a chunk o' my tongue the first few times I opened it. -Had some trouble reinstalling my removable seats. They went in fine; I just couldn't get the securing latch to slip over the floor attachment and engage. Finally put just a touch of WD40 on it, and *ka-chunck*...worked fine.
Thanks for the lexol recommendation. Anybody have any non-Amway wax/finish recommendations?
Good post, reading about your tailgate made me chuckle just when I needed a good chuckle. Hate to burst your bubble but one of the best finishes I have ever used and still use is the Amway Silicone Glaze. My opinion only, second to none. The "burning" plastic smell I would attribute to overspray of the the undercoating the factory applies quite liberally.
Beav-
Make sure your Sedona is as clean as you left it with them when you pick it up. I had a situtation last year where a shop greased my carpet up my motorhome quite severely, and actually had the audacity to expect me to drive it home that way. It cost them $100 to have it cleaned by MY shop ( not theirs) and they have never looked at me the same since...like it was my fault!
Look in your phone book under Amway or go online, you'll find someone. This stuff is worth going after. Once you find a rep, they'll drop ship. This stuff holds up and protects paint from scuffs very well, beads water for over a year. Put it on wet and wipe it off, works great on countertops, sinks, and showerstalls, or any fiberglass. I detail collector RVs for a living and that's what I use, it's a major selling factor for me.
That's very respectable considering varying driving conditions, we are in winter months, and most of these Sedonas are not even close to being broke in. Once we get 10-15K on our vehicles it will get better and the fact that MPG's increase in warmer weather. In my opinion, excellent performance for a 3.5 liter pulling 4700+lbs, it's about all you could ask for. The major magazine reviews all make me puke with their MPG condemnations of the Sedona....who pays those clowns anyway? I gace more weight in make my buying decision to this board than those reviews! The owners know the truth.
Not sure who makes it, but U-Haul has the best deal. The Draw tight one was about ten more bucks. On the subject of finish, the Turtle Wax finish 2001 is the best I've tried, only about $2.50 at Walmart.
Factual data that you have gathered is more accurate and more reliable than biased reviewers. Some people may try to discredit you by calling your data "anecdotal" even though most of us believe the facts you gathered more than the "predictions" of automotive reviewers.
These informal surveys are fun and informative at times. As far as complaints, annoyances, we don't really have much to talk about yet on the this board... and thats great. I'll have my "new car" halo for a while yet. Not all that many Sedonas out there yet, and time will tell how well these Sedonas will hold up. In fact I live in a town of 280,000 (Madison, Wi) and I have yet to see another on the road! All the over-educated academia (LOTS of them in a large U-town) here drive Hondas, Toyotas, Volvos, BMers, Benz, etc and they all act like they don't notice me when they are along side of me....but when I see them in my rear view mirror... I think half the time they are arguing over whether or not its a Ford Windstar or not...until I see one of them point at the nameplate! It will take time in this town, because status is big here. How can you have status driving a KIA??**%$$$??:)!! Personally I think status is a mental disorder. When Kia has the numbers that Toyota or Honda have, sheer demographics would inevitably deliver a " Kia Sedona Problems" board(s). I must say that if my Sedona holds up as well as my '91 Toyota Previa has, I WILL be impressed, to say the least. I have 148K on it, and it has the original suspension and exhaust, non oil burning engine, no creeks, rattles, noises, annoyances, etc. of any kind and everything works. I believe Kia is out to prove they can build a solid, reliable vehicle, and the Sedona is the result of that effort. By the way, can anyone verify if the Sedona exhaust is stainless?, I was told it was and it appears to be so. Excelent3
Excelent3 thanks for the work. You have validated some earlier observations. Here is my previous post from September. Numbers look very similar to your recent survey. I am convinced.
#82 of 485 Weight, MPG, rambling.. by jimjps [ United States of America ] Sep 09, 2001 (09:15 pm)
...Results of the MPG survey are self-evident. Everyone reporting said about 15-16 city and 24-25 highway, much better than the EPA 15/20. The 15 city is a matter of physics, accelerating 4700 lbs just takes a lot of energy, the 25 highway is an excellent showing and I think another testimony to this great engine. I think the engine's most efficient torque band is right around highway speed and this may account for the good showing. Typically MPG improves after a few thousand miles so it could get even better. The transmission shifts are excellent...
Stereo. The trans is really impressive in how smooth it is. Sedona rides a quality ride with good suspension and added weight. This mini gets out of it's own way fast in the lower gears, try doing 25mph, you really have to watch it. I look forward to towing with it. That's when it will prove its worth to me. I'll be using a Class II with a weight dist. setup, mainly because it's a front wheel drive, want to keep the front wheels on the ground for better traction and less tongue weight on the heavier trailers ( #2500lb and up). I tow mostly popups and small (20' and under hardside travel trailers) Any one ever have any towing questions let me know. We never did get a GVCR rating out of Kia but you can figure if you have a loaded Sedona (7 passengers, gear, fuel) you can pull about 1750lbs and not be "on the bubble". Most 10-12' popups would be in that category. Try doing that with a Dodge Caravan. Scary thought. I probably shouldn't talk to soon, as the Sedona has yet to prove itself, I feel very confident this setup will offer few problems. I checked with several transmission shops before I purchased and the overwhelming consensus was that there was no question the imports far outshined the domestics as far as very minimal frequency of repair. If it is true that the Sedona engine is basically a Mitsubishi Montero spinoff mated to a similiar transmission we are in good company! Excelent3
After a lot of looking, I narrowed choices down to a Sedona or a Sienna. I decided to buy the Sedona. I wanted a particular color combination in a loaded EX, with factory ABS brakes (dealer installed in Ca. is triple the price). The dealer never got exactly what a wanted, but came up with an acceptable vehicle with factory ABS. One manager already told us he would sell us the vehicle at MSRP. When we returned to inspect the vehicle, we found a defective leather panel in one of the bucket seats. Confidence was shaken when the service staff and dealer did not immediately commit to replacing the seat back. They had a discussion about sending it to an upholstery shop to maybe replace the panel. I pointed out the problem might have been a defective foam base. Things got worse. Upon going into the office, we were directed to sit on the opposite side of the desk, where the employees normally sit. The salesman than started the game of "make me an offer". We already knew the price, told him what a manager had said. He left us alone. I then noticed the phone near me was set to the "microphone" position, leaving me with the impression our coversation was being monitored. I turned it off. The salesman returned with a different manager who now refused to sell us the vehicle at MSRP. He now wanted to add the garbage sticker items - almost $900 for seat treatment, paint treatment (not done yet) and "security stickers" placed on the car components (NHTSA requires all manufacturers to place VIN number identification on all major components and parts- this should not have been an almost $300 charge). When told we had already been given a price by another manager, he said he was the manager on duty, and he could not sell us the vehicle for MSRP. We had concerns about the Sedona not being crash tested ( it is supposed to be done in August 2002). This manager forgot who the customer was. It tipped us away from the unproven Kia. We are now looking for a late model Sienna. I think the Sedona has a lot of positive features, but the arrogance of the staff at my local dealership eroded my confidence. Maybe I will consider KIA at a later date, after it is crash tested if it has a high rating, and when dealers are more reasonable in their pricing policy. Also, if you buy a KIA, beware. I spoke to one dealership which alters the vehicles they receive, taking off stock items and reconfiguring vehicles. Be sure you know what is factory provided so as not to end up with a stripped down car, or paying extra for what should have been stock. Another nifty trick of our local dealer is to bump the price of the lower priced LX by outfitting them with mud guards at a price of $400, which is more than a 100% mark up over cost of parts and installation labor. Good luck with your KIAs - I'll be monitoring your comments to see how they hold up.
Very sad experience, my heart goes out to you. This is deplorable and you should report this to Kia corporate, they can ill afford this type of conduct by their dealers!. Before buying that Sienna (which is the same scenario I had as far as the 2 choices) try another small town dealer. Why let a dealer steal your first choice, that you justified in your mind? This same situation could have and has probably happened at Toyota a dealership. One BIG reason I did'nt buy a Sienna was because of the "high on their horse" attitude of Toyota dealerships where I live. Find another dealer, go directly to the sales manager or better yet GENERAL MANAGER and tell him WHAT YOU EXPECT...or NO DEAL. That's what I did, and there was no [non-permissible content removed] footing around. I FIRMLY AND POLITELY told him what MY RULES OF ENGAGEMENT and EXPECTATIONS were if you want to have the PRIVELEDGE of EARNING MY BUSINESS....(who the hell is serving who here anyway!) Case in point:I had a deposit with a local dealer on a Kia Sedona. They found the vehicle, had it shipped to Madison. I wanted a fully loaded unit. They found one without a spoiler. I said put a matching spoiler on it and you got a deal. They said it will cost us more to do that. I said a spoiler is $170 but if you have to paint one and install it that's your problem. They said $550 more. I said no deal. That got me out of the contract right then and there, BECAUSE THEY COULDN'T DELIVER WHAT WAS ON THE CONTRACT. I went to La Crosse to pick up my college daughter and while there I found a Kia dealership that sells only Kias, rare I understand. I called them, told them I wanted YADAYADAYADA. "AS a matter of fact we have one rolling off the truck right now!" It did not have the spoiler however. When I got there I asked for the GM and told him I did not want to mess around, I'm a serious buyer and if you can meet MY terms you have the easiest sale you ever made. They treated me like gold, agreed to my terms and I even got a couple extras out of them. Friendly assertiveness and control plays in your favor. IRONICALLY, after I closed the deal with them I got a call on my way home from the first dealer. I told them I had just closed the deal with another dealer, they said they would match it, I said " Sorry, you had your chance!" LOL. Moral of story for dealer is when you play games you risk LOSING the game. I hope you can reconcile with yourself and find a dealer that's willing to work with you on YOUR terms...that way you get the vehicle you really want. Rebound buying is not wise, think it over a day or two. Excelent3
Sedona (known as Carnival in Korea and other countries) became the best selling minivan in Australia in 2001. The minivan had about 22% market share in the segment. This proves Kia is a major player in the segment. Anyone watch the Australian Open? KIA logos are all over the courts.
1. Yoony, I'm curious how the Carnivals are equipped in Australia. Do they have the 3.5 and 5-speed automatic and are there other engine/tansmission choices like in Europe? Turbodiesel? Thanks.
2. Msju. Sorry about the turkey dealer. Unfortunately, it can happen with any car. I used to be amused at these antics in my younger days and would sometimes leave the showroom laughing (but it was not a productive use of time). Now I am ready to walk as soon as any BS starts and it seems they usually sense that. You can always go the carsdirect.com route. Feedback is pretty good on them.
excel - I was told by my service dept that the engine was a Hyundai Sonata - one they rarely have trouble with (the dealer is also a Hyundai and VW dealer). Not having a clue about engines (mechanically challenged), I don't know if it's true or not. I agree about status being silly. A car is a car, I want it to be a good value for the money and for the least amount of money possible. With the savings on the Sedona, we're going to Hawaii next month. Aloha!
msju - do try to find another dealer. They (a different dealer than my service dealer)tried to play games with me too, quoted a price over the phone $500 below MSRP and told me they couldn't possibly sell it for that once I got there. In the end they did, the paperwork reflected the MSRP but I got that much more in my trade. We were both happy. Thankfully, I'm not financially challenged. My husband and I are the dynamic duo - he does the mechanical thing and I do the haggling. He tries to keep a straight face. Sometimes he has to leave.
Hawaii- GEEEZ- Have a great time...That makes that Sedona extra special don't you think!. I believe you may be right as far as the Hyundai engine. I have ben led to think it is a Montero spinoff which may also be correct, sometimes engines have a way of evolving. However, yesterday I stopped at my friendly Hyundai dealership and I was shown the top of the line sedan, the XG350 and visually the motor is nearly identical. When you look at the engine specs it is also nearly identical. Aloha
jimjps - I am not sure about Aussi's models but I know in Korea there are 3 types of engines (Diesel, LPG, and Gas) offered. In Korea, they are selling Carnival II. There are slight changes to the van such as a sportier hood. The van got 5 and 4 stars on crash tests. The car is also offered in 4 spd automatic with 3 types of engagements and 5 speed manual. Pics of Carnival II can be seen on http://www.kia.co.kr/mall/rv/carnival2_lineup.asp
I have been contacted by Kia Research and they will be calling me in a few days. I'll let you know what transpires. Maybe I can get some straight answers regarding engine and trans. Their E-Mail address which they posted seemed to work fine. Excelent3
Have you seen the hood on the UK version of the Sedona (Carnival)? That custom look air induction would be a nice addition to the spoiler. Would'nt you think for a design change for 2003?
Ex3: I agree with hoyahenry (a Georgetown reference, Henry?). I would be VERY cautious about giving a lot of personal data to this outfit. It strikes me as pretty unusual that a major multi-national corporation would use hotmail as their portal for e-mail surveys about their product. The user profile just says "Deb in California". Yeah, too much spam and urban legend junk mail has made me a cynical old coot, but my bet is it's a scam to get you on mailing lists, get a credit card number, or sell you Kia merchandise. Just my two won worth.....
Thanks for the warning. Now that you mention it I agree with both of you . It does seem strange that they would have Hotmail as a portal. Excellent observation. If and when this so called "research" person contacts me, I will be asking the first pointed questions. I for one however have tried to E-Mail Kia with no luck. I wanted to make them aware of this forum, may benefit them to learn what us owners are saying. They may very well be monitoring this board for all I know buts it's worth giving it a shot. Does anyone have an E-Mail for Kia Corporate?
Comments
Thank you for your recent correspondence. The ECAT button shown on the brochure is not located in any Kia Sedona located in the United States. The button is used in Korea where they have small engines and the button control the automatic transmission with will provide more power / conserve fuel. A far as the slot above the coin holder, it is not used for anything at this time. The suggestions you have mentioned have also be forwarded to our product planning team in Korea for review.
Thank you
Kia Motors America
Here is the response:
The EX model Sedona, fully loaded, sells faster than the LX model due to the ABS brakes and the leather package. I am sure Kia Motors Corporate is aware of the pace that Kia Motors America is selling the Ex model vehicle. They will do everything possible to have more vehicles shipped to the United States so we can meet the demands of our buying customers. We apologizes if this has caused any inconveniences.
Sincerely
Kia Motors America
2) I am trying to get an average on MPG's for the Sedona and since you are a regular poster here would you mind offering yours? Excelent3
Message: I own a 2002 Mercedes C-Class and I have just bought a new 2002 Kia Sedona LX Van. I must have looked at SUV's and Vans for 4 months, and I am very impressed with the quality and value in the Sedona. It handles like a sports car, looks great, and is very versatile. I love the 4 back seats that can be snapped out and rolled on rollers to the garage. Fabulous stereo/CD. Just wish it had power sliding doors. Priced at 23k out the door totally loaded. You can't beat it.
I was curious about post #457. Was the $23,000 spent on a US Sedona LX? That seems like a lot to pay for an LX model. For that price the author should have got an EX instead.
I have the same EX model (Leather, Sunroof, Two Tone,Spoiler,Homelink and ABS) Paid exactly $22,885. I think I could have done even better but the exact vehicle I wanted was literally rolling off the truck while I was at the dealership and I couldn't find one with ABS in that color in a 6 state area, so I nailed it down. Easiest sale that salesman ever had.
Excel, your question about having those plastic ridges down each side of the roof - no, we don't have them. We only have the usual pre-molded ridges that are a part of the top of the roof. So you think we ar our of luck for attaching that old roof-top carrier?
I personally would not add leather to a van that has everything else you need. In my case, the only van with ABS also had leather, and then the option cost only adds $850 to the sticker. As previously posted, there are some shortcuts - the headrests and armrests feel like vinyl, but so what.
...mileage, only have 200 miles. I will post substantive results at the appropriate time.
That is probably more important than saving another $100 on the sale.
TB
Not in the Car Biz, nor in Sales.
beav3, many posters will be waiting with bated breath for updates of your experience. Here are some of my thoughts after a month of ownership:
-Got 15.7 mpg in town on a recent fill-up, using about 80% 93 octane gas. I had intended to measure mileage on both 87 and 93, because I'd found a fairly significant difference on a previous car. However, in reading the manual, they actually recommend using the lowest octane, at least during the break in period. Anyone have thoughts on that?
-I've found it's taken about a full month and 800 miles for that new car "burning plastic" smell, noticeable when shutting off the car, to go away. I was just about at the point of worrying.
-For new buyers or test drivers: watch yourself when opening the rear hatch. It's spring loaded, and I just about clipped my chin and bit off my a chunk o' my tongue the first few times I opened it.
-Had some trouble reinstalling my removable seats. They went in fine; I just couldn't get the securing latch to slip over the floor attachment and engage. Finally put just a touch of WD40 on it, and *ka-chunck*...worked fine.
Thanks for the lexol recommendation. Anybody have any non-Amway wax/finish recommendations?
Mark
Beav-
Make sure your Sedona is as clean as you left it with them when you pick it up. I had a situtation last year where a shop greased my carpet up my motorhome quite severely, and actually had the audacity to expect me to drive it home that way. It cost them $100 to have it cleaned by MY shop ( not theirs) and they have never looked at me the same since...like it was my fault!
marcolius: I'll keep everyone updated. Just as an fyi, I was using the low octane only. Would be curious what everyone else is doing.
15.5 city
23.725 Hwy.......almost 24! AVERAGE
That's very respectable considering varying driving conditions, we are in winter months, and most of these Sedonas are not even close to being broke in. Once we get 10-15K on our vehicles it will get better and the fact that MPG's increase in warmer weather. In my opinion, excellent performance for a 3.5 liter pulling 4700+lbs, it's about all you could ask for. The major magazine reviews all make me puke with their MPG condemnations of the Sedona....who pays those clowns anyway? I gace more weight in make my buying decision to this board than those reviews! The owners know the truth.
On the subject of finish, the Turtle Wax finish 2001 is the best I've tried, only about $2.50 at Walmart.
Some people may try to discredit you by calling your data "anecdotal" even though most of us believe the facts you gathered more than the "predictions" of automotive reviewers.
When Kia has the numbers that Toyota or Honda have, sheer demographics would inevitably deliver a " Kia Sedona Problems" board(s). I must say that if my Sedona holds up as well as my '91 Toyota Previa has, I WILL be impressed, to say the least. I have 148K on it, and it has the original suspension and exhaust, non oil burning engine, no creeks, rattles, noises, annoyances, etc. of any kind and everything works. I believe Kia is out to prove they can build a solid, reliable vehicle, and the Sedona is the result of that effort.
By the way, can anyone verify if the Sedona exhaust is stainless?, I was told it was and it appears to be so. Excelent3
#82 of 485 Weight, MPG, rambling.. by jimjps [ United States of America ] Sep 09, 2001 (09:15 pm)
...Results of the MPG survey are self-evident. Everyone reporting said about 15-16 city and
24-25 highway, much better than the EPA 15/20. The 15 city is a matter of physics, accelerating 4700 lbs just takes a lot of energy, the 25 highway is an excellent showing and I think another testimony to this great engine. I think the engine's most efficient torque band is right around highway speed and this may account for the good showing. Typically MPG improves after a few thousand miles so it could get even better. The transmission shifts are excellent...
I tow mostly popups and small (20' and under hardside travel trailers) Any one ever have any towing questions let me know. We never did get a GVCR rating out of Kia but you can figure if you have a loaded Sedona (7 passengers, gear, fuel) you can pull about 1750lbs and not be "on the bubble". Most 10-12' popups would be in that category. Try doing that with a Dodge Caravan. Scary thought. I probably shouldn't talk to soon, as the Sedona has yet to prove itself, I feel very confident this setup will offer few problems. I checked with several transmission shops before I purchased and the overwhelming consensus was that there was no question the imports far outshined the domestics as far as very minimal frequency of repair. If it is true that the Sedona engine is basically a Mitsubishi Montero spinoff mated to a similiar transmission we are in good company! Excelent3
I hope you can reconcile with yourself and find a dealer that's willing to work with you on YOUR terms...that way you get the vehicle you really want. Rebound buying is not wise, think it over a day or two. Excelent3
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
2. Msju. Sorry about the turkey dealer. Unfortunately, it can happen with any car. I used to be amused at these antics in my younger days and would sometimes leave the showroom laughing (but it was not a productive use of time). Now I am ready to walk as soon as any BS starts and it seems they usually sense that. You can always go the carsdirect.com route. Feedback is pretty good on them.
msju - do try to find another dealer. They (a different dealer than my service dealer)tried to play games with me too, quoted a price over the phone $500 below MSRP and told me they couldn't possibly sell it for that once I got there. In the end they did, the paperwork reflected the MSRP but I got that much more in my trade. We were both happy. Thankfully, I'm not financially challenged. My husband and I are the dynamic duo - he does the mechanical thing and I do the haggling. He tries to keep a straight face. Sometimes he has to leave.
Just my two won worth.....