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Passenger vans are an ideal solution for carrying families in comfort, as well as large cargoes with ease, They offer powerful engines combined with interior features to deliver a smooth ride, and modern models can achieve surprisingly good fuel economy for vehicles of this size.
There are plenty of choices available in a crowded market, but two of the leading contenders are the 2019 Kia Sedona and the 2019 version of the long-lived Dodge Caravan. How do the main features of each compare?
In this class of vehicle, the engine needs to deliver a solid amount of people-carrying power. Both cars are well equipped with V-6 designs providing plenty of horsepower.
The Sedona features a 3.3L capacity engine producing 276hp at 6,000rpm, while the Dodge offers 3.6L and 283hp at 6.400rpm.
Both vehicles are front-wheel drive, and the Kia offers as standard 8-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. The Dodge is provided with a less luxurious 6-speed automatic transmission system, also with overdrive.
Considering the engine size, the Kia offers respectable fuel economy figures, delivering an estimated 12.7L/100km for city driving, and 10.L/100km on the highway.
The Dodge offers slightly better city figures of 9.4L/100km, but the advantage is lost on the highway where it only manages a disappointing 13.7L/100km.
Safety is the number one priority for any family vehicle, and the Sedona scores a straight 5-stars throughout the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's range of tests.
Unfortunately, the 2019 Dodge Caravan fared a little less well. Its 4-star ratings on frontal impact and rollover tests perhaps reflect the model's age and are disappointing for a modern vehicle.
As well as performing well in crash tests, the Kia Sedona includes the following safety features as standard:
Although a minivan needs to focus on performance, that doesn't mean comfort and convenience aren't also hugely important.
As standard, the Sedona includes the following:
The Dodge is also well equipped, for example offering tri-zone air conditioning compared to Kia's dual zones. However, the most attractive comfort options for this model usually involve upgrade costs.
The Dodge Caravan is a model with a long and trusted history, but for a modern passenger minivan, it's starting to look a little past its prime, particularly in the safety area. It still offers plenty of space and power but is falling behind on comfort and drive quality.
In contrast, the Kia Sedona offers a great combination of comfort, value, and upmarket features, and it makes an excellent choice in this section of the market. Contact us now for more information or to arrange a test drive.