Apr 03, 2014 01:42 PM EDT
Kia Teases Redesigned 2015 Sedona Minivan

Kia has released an image of the new 2015 Kia Sedona minivan before its upcoming debut at the 2014 New York Auto Show.

"This global debut will challenge the segment and will offer the functionality to transport as many as eight passengers and their belongings while also serving as a purposeful offering for adventure seekers," said Kia Motors America in a statement on Thursday, as quoted by Edmunds.com.

The redesigned minivan, which should be available in the U.S. in October, will continue the Sedona's competition with the 2014 Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan, Honda Odyssey, Nissan Quest and Toyota Sienna, according to Edmunds.

The 2014 Kia Sedona LX starts at $26,795 in standard trim, including an $895 destination charge.

The redesign marks the first big change for the Sedona since the model launched in 2005, Edmunds earlier reported.

The 2015 version is a "brand new vehicle," Stephanie Brinley, a senior analyst for the Americas at IHS Automotive, told Edmunds. "There will be major changes to the chassis, engine, exterior and interior."

The next question is which side of the minivan segment will be drawn to the Sedona. Minivans are usually favored by families with young children and people who have retired.

"It is fairly stable, 500,000 or so, but if you really look at it, it is two segments in one," Kia spokesman Tom Loveless said of the minivan segment, as quoted by Edmunds. "Young families occupy one, and Honda and Toyota fight over leadership there.

"If we are going to continue in the minivan segment, which half do we go after? Of course, that will be another story for another day. But I think for the young family there is always going to be a need for a minivan."

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