These are all great pics Last one with 4 rows is kind of weird and cool in the same time, must be asian minibus something (carnival) or Limited edition only, plus may not be fold-in-the-floor-seats
This vehicle is available in 7 to 11 seat configurations in Korea. The 11 seat configuration is available purely for the tax benifit in Korea. The picture does not show it, but the leg space of the 3rd and 4th row is nil. I think the US model will be available in 7 seat configuration as there is no way 11 seater can pass the rear collision standard of the US.
As shown in the picture, 2nd row windows go down, which is an improvement over the previous model as well as power-operated sliding doors and the rear lift gate. One cool future of the car is VRS, which is said to reduce the turning radius to 18.7 feet.
Dimensionwise, this vehicle is big and heavy.
Length: 16.8 ft Wheelbase: 9.9 ft Width: 6.5 ft Height: 5.8 ft Weight: 4874 lbs (Diesel with 5 speed automatic)
Consequently, the fuel economy is not so great. This model is only available with the diesel engine in Korea. I sat in one at the dealership and the car seems solidly built, but it is disappointing to notice the weight gain. Btw, this car looks best in crystal blue(K9).
I looked at the 2005 Sedona yesterday. It was allot like my Caravan and had a simple effective option layout. No confusing model and "option package" mayhem either. Very simple and effective models. Almost all of what I like. Maybe a little more stuff that I don't need like electric seats on the EX, but at that price it's fine with me. One thing I always wanted and could not get on the Caravan was the overhead console with a compass. I loose my sense of direction in cloudy weather. The problem with MANY manufactures is that to get that stupid compass feature you have to buy a whole bunch of options you don't need. Heck, is a compass worth thousands of dollars? I think NOT! That is why Dodge looses my business. I hate the "nickel and dime" routine on the model, options, and packages. Too much crap I don't need! The 2005 Sedona EX had the console, so I thought "PERFECT", but it did not have a compass. Darn! But I'm glad I'm waiting for the 2006 with all the improvements.
The whole navigation system thing IS nice (I use my computer in my work truck) and I would like to have that, BUT how much is it really worth? I see some posters here saying they would pay $10,000 more for a Sedona with that package. Are you CRAZY? It's that kind of consumer that DRIVES up the price, and I think we are all interested in Kia for the same reason...saving money and getting the basic options we really like at a good value. I for one would like it to stay that way. The other companies are WAY out of line. I would rather milk my 10 year old Caravan a little more than pay $30,000 for a van with navigation. :rolleyes: I mean...what is it really worth? I can get a $400 laptop and Street Atlas USA with the USB GPS receiver and have a HUGE COLOR screen navigation system for $500. Hey, wait a minute...it's also a HUGE SCREEN DVD player too! And gee...If I get an AirCard, I can surf the net and do e-mail...And wow...I can do games too!...add on HDTV tuner and HOLY COW it's a DIGITAL TV too! I'm sure you get the point by now.
I just hope Kia doesn't become like the others...charging an arm and leg, or forcing you to buy a pile of options that are a whole bunch of junk you don't need for thousands more just to get a "compass" or "navigation system". If and when Kia becomes like the other companies, I loose my interest in them. But when "Johnny Dumb@$$ Consumer" is stupid enough to pay 10K more for a feature worth $500 bucks, we all loose. The "value" is no more.
I look forward to the 2006 Sedona. When the incentive programs come out, I will seriously consider buying one IF the price/value is still worth it (like it is now). Hopefully Kia will not become another greedy car company. AND PLEASE...don't model your vans like some of the UGLY "FLY CARS" that the others are all doing. Good God...the new cars, vans, and SUVs coming out are getting very plastic and ugly looking. I love the "basic and functional" look. So far the headlamps are the only "FLY CAR" thing on the new Sedona. I don't like it, but I guess it's a small thing as long as the rest of the Sedona is "down to earth".
BTW - The above photo of what looks like a navigation system is most likely a prototype. What we see is an incomplete dash that is missing the green temperature LCD readout. Also, there is no CD or cassette loader. And notice the clothing on what looks like engineers. I doubt we will see this feature until after 2006. If they had designed the dash console to take advantage of the "empty space" now used for storage, maybe they could have squeezed it in. It will take a redesign to fit it in. At least the 2006 EX has the COMPASS. (yes!) I'll use my laptop for navigation. For mounting, that center table in between the seats will do fine and would also work for DVD movies in the back. I could use my FM modulator to pipe in the audio, or headphones could be plugged into the laptop.
Here is a extreme close-up of what we can expect. Is the compass to the right side of the clock? I can't find any pictures of the ceiling, so I have no idea what is being displayed up there.
I like it! Can't wait for the incentives! (but I will) One thing I would change is the flat black paint around the side windows. I would like it to be a glossy black paint to match the dark tinted glass. Roof rack? I really do not want one, but what are you gonna do? Lets hope the gas mileage is better!
Bring that NAV, it would only be an option anyway. Most makes don't even offer the option on low-end models, so it's not like it would affect value-shoppers.
I'd pay extra for it, but not to the tune of $10,000.
I'd pay maybe anywhere between $1500-$2000 for it.
Of course, if NAV came bundled with other stuff, I'd have to reassess how much I'd pay for the entire package, but if NAV were a stand-alone option, that's about how much I'd be willing to pay.
And 11 seats sounds interesting... hehe.
I wonder if navigation will be offered on the Sedona or if it might be restricted to the Hyundai Entourage.
Mainstream brands offer Nav now, to not even offer it is sub-par
What you mean is mainstream brands should offer it, as minivans are essentially the best road trip vehicles available.
Sadly, the new GM vans, Terraza/Uplander/Montana SV6/Relay dont offer it as an option, but a DVD does come standard. Terraza is a luxury van - how can they not offer it?
And the Freestar/Monterey don't even offer one!!
However a lack of a nav system wouldn't make me not buy a vehicle. A nav system is mainly for road trips and long journeys - i doubt people need nav system for daily driving, to work, school, home store. Also sometimes a nav system comes bundled with other unecessary options, then it's probably not worth getting it.
Aftermarket nav systems are always available, from Garmin, Pioneer, fMagellan, Clarion, Panasonic for those who need them.
To the moderator; I extend my apologies for any comments I have made that offended anyone. I do not want to be a 100% disabled veteran anymore then the next vet, but things happen in a war. I was trying to make a point which was taken the wrong way. Since I saw the response and then the response from hansienna this is my first return to this forum. I would like to remain a member and will not sway from the intended object.
Thanks, and we all accept! These forums work best when we stick to talking about the vehicles rather than the myriad reasons behind people's choices. I'm glad you enjoy the Forums, and we look forward to your continued participation.
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name. 2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h) Review your vehicle
I have an HP PDA/NAV unit and it all works wirelessly so you don't see any wires.
Bad part is that battery life is pretty short at 4 hours so if you're driving any further than that you'll have to drag along the car charger that comes with the Navigation System attachment.
Good part is that the PDAs that are compatible with the HP system offer many other features like MP3 players, Pocket Word, Pocket Excel and a few other functions.
It still isn't as easy to use as a built in unit, but it costs significantly less.
The PDA runs about $280 (amazon.com) and the Navigation attachment runs about $275 (amazon.com)
Speaking of thousands...WHAT IS THE BEST PRICE ON AN 2005 EX that anyone has gotten? I'm talking about BOTTOM LINE. With and without tax. I'm really liking the two vans I tried, so I'm getting close to purchase.
The deal on the table right now for a new 05 EX standard package is 20,616 (FL tax included) -1,500 dealer discount -3,500 rebates +399 dealer prep
Well, I don't know the street price of a Sedona, but to me it sounds resonable, but I could be way off since I never really considered buying a Sedona the last time around...
Thanks, jchan2. I was writing stuff down as fast as I could. You know car dealers! :mad:
I believe he said 18,740 before tax. That would add up to 10 % tax and sales tax is lower than that here...unless vehicles get a different tax rate. I was going to wait for the 2006, but I prefer the 05 style. True...more features on the 06, but unproven design and quality as well as unknown pricing. The 05 will do fine. I'll use my laptop for NAV.
It must be each part of the country is different or why else would they ask for your zip code? Here in southeast AL. the last time I tried I was quoted $21,500. plus...
I am beginning to think of sticking with the '05 also. The price is sure to come down more and they will probably be offering interest specials since Greenspan is announcing another interest hike today. Not knowing what the '06 price is going to be is a bit scary.
Does anyone know the reliability comparisons of the KIA vs a Grand Caravan or T&W?
A 2005 Caravan SXT has about the same interior volume as a 2005 Kia Sedona, gets much better gas mileage, and has the complete overhead console with popular equipment group and has MSRP of $24,340. Subtract the $2000 rebate and the $2682 Employee Pricing and the price becomes $19,658. Have you recently priced the 2005 Caravan SXT??
Nice photo. Is that trim around the center console real bamboo or just bamboo colored plastic? :confuse: Seriously, the Sedona in the photo looks like a very well equipped vehicle. IF the 2006 Sedona has all the nice features with the increase in power and fuel economy, and at the price being quoted...it will give the Sienna, Odyssey, Grand Caravan, and Town & Country some stiff competition.
I can not find the information, but I think that an e-mail I received a few months ago from Edmunds Inside Line stated that the pricing would be comparable to the current Sedonas. The 2006 Sedona LX appears to have most of the features that are important to me (including a reasonably low price).
To be fair people here have reported paying about $4000 less than that Dodge on left over Sedona LX models. Not sure how equipment compares, but I'm afraid of that Dodge tranny not lasting over 80k miles anyway.
We can't know - they don't fail until around 70-80k miles, so most 4-5 year old models aren't there yet.
This is the type of thing you only know for sure after the fact.
My neighbor sells carpets wholesale and has been through 3 vans due to tranny issues. To be fair he carries a lot of weight (carpet samples) but the pattern was enough to scare me off. I'd buy one only with an extended warranty that specifically covered the trans.
I totally agree with you on the Navigation system for cars! (reading this post a little late). Yes, I have a Garmin Gps receiver but it is on my boat, for use on the open oceans, and large bodys of water "WITHOUT ANY ROUTE MARKERS OR ROAD SIGNS". I consider car navigation screens in automobiles a dangerous accessory. You are supposed to be focused on driving and watching the road and all that is happening around you. How can you keep looking at a screen for directions and be a sefe driver? If you need to check your directions, stop and look at the map you should have with you- $4.95 at Wal-mart or any quik-mart. Besides, how can you determine anything from a 3 inch screen 2 feet away from you? Maybe when in the future they tie- in with radar (or whatever they will call it) travel on high-speed hiways for safe traveling between vehicles, it will be useful. Then you can sit back, watch a movie, make cell phone calls, and have a drink (non-alcoholic) and not worry about where you are going, or safe driving. I think I've seen some people on the interstates already that fit that description--going 80-90 MPH. And they wonder why there are so many serious/fatal crashes lately!!
Actually - newer screens are up to 7" diagonal. Plus most better systems offer voice commands. "Turn left on Route 28 in 200 feet". You don't have to look at the map at all.
Plus, paper maps are HUGE, fumbling with those will surely cause an accident. Especially if you have to keep re-folding them as you travel.
I was a nay-sayers but after getting to sample a good, modern NAV system I changed my mind - you travel much more relaxed and for that very reason you end up driving more safely - less stress and not worried you will miss a turn. Plus you pay attention to traffic and not street signs.
All well and true. But I'm a believer in the KISS system. (Keep it simple, Stupid!) I have a many page road atlas, no folding and fumbling. You missed the statement "STOP and check your map". I'm not refering to looking at a map/atlas while actually driving. Just witness the strange and odd driving habits of anyone on a Cell Phone! They seem to be in another world and not behind the wheel of a car! Don't get me wrong - Cell Phones are great, and some people can Walk and chew gum, but most can't talk on a phone and drive!
When I was a kid, we had none of the gadgets we have today. An Automobile trip of any duration was an adventure. There were many games made up to pass the hours using things in view on the road. Now it's an adventure just trying to arrive safely what with DVD's, I-Pod's, MP3's Cell Phones, Nav systems, crazy speed demons, and all the horrific accidents you see on the way. In all fairness though, there are many more vehicles on the highways today, but that still doesn't mean they can't drive safely. Gosh, I miss the old days!
I'm with you Juice. At 60 I am minivan hunting because we now have custody of two of our grandchildren Not enough room in the Camry when we have the other two grand kids or somebody wants to bring a friend. The wife can't even unfold a map let alone read one. Once upon a time I used to wonder why the "old folks" had a compass mounted on the dash. Now I know. My first year in sales I put 80,000 miles on my car and there were many a time when I got into a strange town that I wished for someone to get me directions. I will go for the NAV. system as long as it is reasonably priced $1,000. Afterall I can purchase a high end hand held GPS for less.
This waiting game is fast becoming challenging and frustrating; Kia has to have an idea of their price point on the new van. I hope I don't make a mistake passing up a good deal out there now and get a big surprise when they hike the price of the Van up with everything else. They sure are not afraid of their price on the Amanti.
Who are they going to compete with on the Vans? ">
Yeah, but the 02-05 Sedona is not a double DIN. It's short by 1/2". So the nice Pioneer and Kenwood units do not fit. BUMMER! Is the 06 double DIN? By the looks of it, I would say no. It looks the same size. You can get one of those single DIN units with the pop-out screen, but then it's not flush with the dash and not "clean" looking. I predict the 07 Sedona will have this option and may even be a double DIN opening. A picture was posted here with what looked like some Korean engineers "playing" with what looked like a NAV.
I use a laptop strapped down on the center table. BIG screen, voice commands and routing with Street Atlas USA, and doubles as a DVD player and game console. I have a good FM modulator to pipe in the sound to the FM stereo. Works great! One hint...get the smallest laptop you can. You don't want one that is too wide because the arm rests get in the way.
It's a Dell Latitude D600. It's my work computer and you take what they give you. It's a nice computer though. It measures 12 1/2 " wide. I would prefer something smaller, but it's free, so I can't complain. This whole setup cost me $99. I will be spending a little on wire and fuse equipment to run main and charge power from the battery/fuse block under the floor to the center location. I plan on 60 Amp service and a 5 Amp charge lead to the power pack. Why 60A? Ham radio and possibly a Federal Streethawk lightbar. :surprise: I dunno...I have to think about it, but having a hidden and SAFE power run to the "accessory area" is a must. I will not use messy "cigar lighter" cords.
Ask your work if you can exchange at some point for a Dell D400. Same series, only smaller. It fits in the same docking station and even uses the same charger.
Just FYI. I'm an IT geek and we buy the same ones.
Dell D400? I will have to look for one of those. I don't think Dell sells them anymore. At least I did not see it on their web site. Thanks for the idea. If I can get one cheap enough, I will dedicate it to the Sedona.
Good point, and that wouldn't be a very elegant solution.
We also use Panasonic Toughbook W2 sub-notebooks, they are tiny and light. 10" screen and under 3 lbs, that does have a DVD built-in, right under the keyboard. But sound quality is not that great, so get headphones.
Re. DC transmission problems . . . I certainly agree that their track record is not good. We have a '94 Grand Caravan ES bought new in July 1994 with over 152K miles. It's still on the original 4-speed electronically-controlled transmission. Personally, I think much of the DC transmission problems come from either insufficient preventive maintenance or abusive use.
I've changed the ATF every 30K, and don't drive agressively. I don't think I've used the kickdown passing gear more than twice since the van's purchase. It has sufficient acceleration without the need for using the kick-down feature.
So, everyone's experience will certainly vary, although I would agree the early DC 4-speed's were problematic.
I don't think they are coming out anytime soon. I live near a distribution point and see 2005's rolling in like they are going crazy. By now most car dealer lots thinning out as they wait for the new 2006 models. My local Chrysler dealers have low inventory...as the 2005's are ceasing to be manufactured and moving over to the 2006's is underway.
Hyundai/Kia on the other hand .... with the 2005 Sedona ... they are swimming in them. I watched truck after truck yesterday ... pull out loaded with new 2005 Sedona's.
I wish the 2006 Sedona would make an appearance, but it looks like Kia is still manufacturing the 2005 full out ... which I think is strange, because with the buzz for the 2006 ... you'd think they would be easing up on dumping more 2005's on the market.
UNLESS .... it's going to be awhile ... say 3 months or more before we see the new 2006 Sedona
Thanks ... would love to know the gas mileage and cost on the new 2006.... still might go with the Chrysler ... of course ... with gas costing what it does .... may be time for me to start thinking Prius ...
You're right--this discussion needed to get back to the 2006 Sedona. I'm also waiting anxiously for the 2006, not only to see what the pricing will be, but also to learn what actual features and options are going to be available. Fortunately, I have the luxury of being able to wait another year or so to buy.
I would think that the 2006 would come out the end of September or beginning of October (I think that's about when the new Odyssey hit the dealers last year). It looks like Kia released the pricing for the new Rio about two to three weeks before they were to go on sale, so I'm figuring we'll see pricing the end of this month at the earliest, and maybe not until mid-September. I agree with you that it is hard to understand why Kia would still be shipping the 2005. Any buyers for those would have to be people that immediately need a minivan, or buyers who are totally uninformed about the car market.
On a related issue, I'm wondering if the Entourage will be unveiled at the Frankfurt auto show at the end of September.
Is that the Sedona release date or the release date for the Entourage that you're thinking of? My understanding was that the Sedona would be out in the Fall of 2005, and the Entourage would be out the late winter or early spring of 2006.
Hi everyone, just signed on and am new to the board. I never thought I'd be shopping for a mini van, but due to recent circumstances I am presently researching the market. Does any know if Kia offers a "Mobility-Handicap" Program? Most major manufacturers do, however I have not been able to find any info on Kia. Also interested if any owners have installed portable wheelchair ramps for side door entry. My son is now in a wheelchair and I would like to see if the Kia Sedona is suitable. Will probable wait to see what the 2006's are like as far as interior headroom and side door entry width. Off the above subject for a moment, has anyone opted for the rear spoiler? Do they actual work and keep the dirt/road grime off the rear window or are they a waste of money?
I read in a couple of publications that the 2006 Sedona will go on sale in November or December. It took until February-March of this year to get the Sportage in the stores.
Comments
Last one with 4 rows is kind of weird and cool in the same time, must be asian minibus something (carnival) or Limited edition only, plus may not be fold-in-the-floor-seats
This vehicle is available in 7 to 11 seat configurations in Korea. The 11 seat configuration is available purely for the tax benifit in Korea. The picture does not show it, but the leg space of the 3rd and 4th row is nil. I think the US model will be available in 7 seat configuration as there is no way 11 seater can pass the rear collision standard of the US.
As shown in the picture, 2nd row windows go down, which is an improvement over the previous model as well as power-operated sliding doors and the rear lift gate.
One cool future of the car is VRS, which is said to reduce the turning radius to 18.7 feet.
Dimensionwise, this vehicle is big and heavy.
Length: 16.8 ft
Wheelbase: 9.9 ft
Width: 6.5 ft
Height: 5.8 ft
Weight: 4874 lbs (Diesel with 5 speed automatic)
Consequently, the fuel economy is not so great.
This model is only available with the diesel engine in Korea.
I sat in one at the dealership and the car seems solidly built,
but it is disappointing to notice the weight gain.
Btw, this car looks best in crystal blue(K9).
The whole navigation system thing IS nice (I use my computer in my work truck) and I would like to have that, BUT how much is it really worth? I see some posters here saying they would pay $10,000 more for a Sedona with that package. Are you CRAZY? It's that kind of consumer that DRIVES up the price, and I think we are all interested in Kia for the same reason...saving money and getting the basic options we really like at a good value. I for one would like it to stay that way. The other companies are WAY out of line. I would rather milk my 10 year old Caravan a little more than pay $30,000 for a van with navigation. :rolleyes: I mean...what is it really worth? I can get a $400 laptop and Street Atlas USA with the USB GPS receiver and have a HUGE COLOR screen navigation system for $500. Hey, wait a minute...it's also a HUGE SCREEN DVD player too! And gee...If I get an AirCard, I can surf the net and do e-mail...And wow...I can do games too!...add on HDTV tuner and HOLY COW it's a DIGITAL TV too! I'm sure you get the point by now.
I just hope Kia doesn't become like the others...charging an arm and leg, or forcing you to buy a pile of options that are a whole bunch of junk you don't need for thousands more just to get a "compass" or "navigation system". If and when Kia becomes like the other companies, I loose my interest in them. But when "Johnny Dumb@$$ Consumer" is stupid enough to pay 10K more for a feature worth $500 bucks, we all loose. The "value" is no more.
I look forward to the 2006 Sedona. When the incentive programs come out, I will seriously consider buying one IF the price/value is still worth it (like it is now). Hopefully Kia will not become another greedy car company. AND PLEASE...don't model your vans like some of the UGLY "FLY CARS" that the others are all doing. Good God...the new cars, vans, and SUVs coming out are getting very plastic and ugly looking. I love the "basic and functional" look. So far the headlamps are the only "FLY CAR" thing on the new Sedona. I don't like it, but I guess it's a small thing as long as the rest of the Sedona is "down to earth".
Phil
Here is a extreme close-up of what we can expect. Is the compass to the right side of the clock? I can't find any pictures of the ceiling, so I have no idea what is being displayed up there.
http://philbert.lh.net/sedona4.jpg
I like it! Can't wait for the incentives! (but I will) One thing I would change is the flat black paint around the side windows. I would like it to be a glossy black paint to match the dark tinted glass.
-juice
I'd pay maybe anywhere between $1500-$2000 for it.
Of course, if NAV came bundled with other stuff, I'd have to reassess how much I'd pay for the entire package, but if NAV were a stand-alone option, that's about how much I'd be willing to pay.
And 11 seats sounds interesting... hehe.
I wonder if navigation will be offered on the Sedona or if it might be restricted to the Hyundai Entourage.
Mainstream brands offer Nav now, to not even offer it is sub-par.
-juice
What you mean is mainstream brands should offer it, as minivans are essentially the best road trip vehicles available.
Sadly, the new GM vans, Terraza/Uplander/Montana SV6/Relay dont offer it as an option, but a DVD does come standard. Terraza is a luxury van - how can they not offer it?
And the Freestar/Monterey don't even offer one!!
However a lack of a nav system wouldn't make me not buy a vehicle. A nav system is mainly for road trips and long journeys - i doubt people need nav system for daily driving, to work, school, home store. Also sometimes a nav system comes bundled with other unecessary options, then it's probably not worth getting it.
Aftermarket nav systems are always available, from Garmin, Pioneer, fMagellan, Clarion, Panasonic for those who need them.
-juice
Thank you
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
Review your vehicle
Bad part is that battery life is pretty short at 4 hours so if you're driving any further than that you'll have to drag along the car charger that comes with the Navigation System attachment.
Good part is that the PDAs that are compatible with the HP system offer many other features like MP3 players, Pocket Word, Pocket Excel and a few other functions.
It still isn't as easy to use as a built in unit, but it costs significantly less.
The PDA runs about $280 (amazon.com) and the Navigation attachment runs about $275 (amazon.com)
Speaking of thousands...WHAT IS THE BEST PRICE ON AN 2005 EX that anyone has gotten? I'm talking about BOTTOM LINE. With and without tax. I'm really liking the two vans I tried, so I'm getting close to purchase.
The deal on the table right now for a new 05 EX standard package is 20,616 (FL tax included)
-1,500 dealer discount
-3,500 rebates
+399 dealer prep
What do you think?
I believe he said 18,740 before tax. That would add up to 10 % tax and sales tax is lower than that here...unless vehicles get a different tax rate. I was going to wait for the 2006, but I prefer the 05 style. True...more features on the 06, but unproven design and quality as well as unknown pricing. The 05 will do fine. I'll use my laptop for NAV.
I am beginning to think of sticking with the '05 also. The price is sure to come down more and they will probably be offering interest specials since Greenspan is announcing another interest hike today. Not knowing what the '06 price is going to be is a bit scary.
Does anyone know the reliability comparisons of the KIA vs a Grand Caravan or T&W?
Thanks
Have you recently priced the 2005 Caravan SXT??
Seriously, the Sedona in the photo looks like a very well equipped vehicle. IF the 2006 Sedona has all the nice features with the increase in power and fuel economy, and at the price being quoted...it will give the Sienna, Odyssey, Grand Caravan, and Town & Country some stiff competition.
I can not find the information, but I think that an e-mail I received a few months ago from Edmunds Inside Line stated that the pricing would be comparable to the current Sedonas.
The 2006 Sedona LX appears to have most of the features that are important to me (including a reasonably low price).
-juice
You need to update your data source. The DC Transmission problems have been ironed out - 4-5 years ago
This is the type of thing you only know for sure after the fact.
My neighbor sells carpets wholesale and has been through 3 vans due to tranny issues. To be fair he carries a lot of weight (carpet samples) but the pattern was enough to scare me off. I'd buy one only with an extended warranty that specifically covered the trans.
-juice
I totally agree with you on the Navigation system for cars! (reading this post a little late). Yes, I have a Garmin Gps receiver but it is on my boat, for use on the open oceans, and large bodys of water "WITHOUT ANY ROUTE MARKERS OR ROAD SIGNS". I consider car navigation screens in automobiles a dangerous accessory. You are supposed to be focused on driving and watching the road and all that is happening around you. How can you keep looking at a screen for directions and be a sefe driver? If you need to check your directions, stop and look at the map you should have with you- $4.95 at Wal-mart or any quik-mart. Besides, how can you determine anything from a 3 inch screen 2 feet away from you? Maybe when in the future they tie- in with radar (or whatever they will call it) travel on high-speed hiways for safe traveling between vehicles, it will be useful. Then you can sit back, watch a movie, make cell phone calls, and have a drink (non-alcoholic) and not worry about where you are going, or safe driving. I think I've seen some people on the interstates already that fit that description--going 80-90 MPH. And they wonder why there are so many serious/fatal crashes lately!!
My Humble Opinion,
Boxwrench
Plus, paper maps are HUGE, fumbling with those will surely cause an accident. Especially if you have to keep re-folding them as you travel.
I was a nay-sayers but after getting to sample a good, modern NAV system I changed my mind - you travel much more relaxed and for that very reason you end up driving more safely - less stress and not worried you will miss a turn. Plus you pay attention to traffic and not street signs.
I *loved* NAV.
-juice
When I was a kid, we had none of the gadgets we have today. An Automobile trip of any duration was an adventure. There were many games made up to pass the hours using things in view on the road. Now it's an adventure just trying to arrive safely what with DVD's, I-Pod's, MP3's Cell Phones, Nav systems, crazy speed demons, and all the horrific accidents you see on the way.
In all fairness though, there are many more vehicles on the highways today, but that still doesn't mean they can't drive safely. Gosh, I miss the old days!
Boxwrench
As a kid I was my dad's co-pilot, which is probably why I'm pretty good with maps and directions. But my wife naps - so no help there.
-juice
This waiting game is fast becoming challenging and frustrating; Kia has to have an idea of their price point on the new van. I hope I don't make a mistake passing up a good deal out there now and get a big surprise when they hike the price of the Van up with everything else. They sure are not afraid of their price on the Amanti.
Who are they going to compete with on the Vans? ">
Later
There's an option, in-dash and fits in a double-DIN slot.
Portable ones go from $400 and up or so.
-juice
I use a laptop strapped down on the center table. BIG screen, voice commands and routing with Street Atlas USA, and doubles as a DVD player and game console. I have a good FM modulator to pipe in the sound to the FM stereo. Works great! One hint...get the smallest laptop you can. You don't want one that is too wide because the arm rests get in the way.
http://philbert.lh.net/SEDONA_NAV_FRONT_5080.JPG
http://philbert.lh.net/SEDONA_NAV_FRONT_NIGHT_5103.JPG
http://philbert.lh.net/SEDONA_DVD_BACK_5088.JPG
http://philbert.lh.net/SEDONA_DVD_NIGHT_5109.JPG
http://philbert.lh.net/SEDONA_COMPUTER_BACK_5092.JPG
Phil ~
Just FYI. I'm an IT geek and we buy the same ones.
-juice
-juice
Question: I do not see a DVD or CD drive IN the D410. Is that an "outboard" device? I really need the DVD drive in the computer.
Thanks,
Phil ~
We also use Panasonic Toughbook W2 sub-notebooks, they are tiny and light. 10" screen and under 3 lbs, that does have a DVD built-in, right under the keyboard. But sound quality is not that great, so get headphones.
-juice
I've changed the ATF every 30K, and don't drive agressively. I don't think I've used the kickdown passing gear more than twice since the van's purchase. It has sufficient acceleration without the need for using the kick-down feature.
So, everyone's experience will certainly vary, although I would agree the early DC 4-speed's were problematic.
Hyundai/Kia on the other hand .... with the 2005 Sedona ... they are swimming in them. I watched truck after truck yesterday ... pull out loaded with new 2005 Sedona's.
I wish the 2006 Sedona would make an appearance, but it looks like Kia is still manufacturing the 2005 full out ... which I think is strange, because with the buzz for the 2006 ... you'd think they would be easing up on dumping more 2005's on the market.
UNLESS .... it's going to be awhile ... say 3 months or more before we see the new 2006 Sedona
Thanks ... would love to know the gas mileage and cost on the new 2006.... still might go with the Chrysler ... of course ... with gas costing what it does .... may be time for me to start thinking Prius ...
I would think that the 2006 would come out the end of September or beginning of October (I think that's about when the new Odyssey hit the dealers last year). It looks like Kia released the pricing for the new Rio about two to three weeks before they were to go on sale, so I'm figuring we'll see pricing the end of this month at the earliest, and maybe not until mid-September. I agree with you that it is hard to understand why Kia would still be shipping the 2005. Any buyers for those would have to be people that immediately need a minivan, or buyers who are totally uninformed about the car market.
On a related issue, I'm wondering if the Entourage will be unveiled at the Frankfurt auto show at the end of September.
Could be time for me to switch from the idea of a minivan to a Highlander Hybrid.
Off the above subject for a moment, has anyone opted for the rear spoiler? Do they actual work and keep the dirt/road grime off the rear window or are they a waste of money?
You might be able to find some aftermarket, but I'm not sure.
And why is your post titled "Would Never be caught dead driving a mini van!!!"?
Just wondering.