We saw a preview of what the 2021 Kia Sedona will look like when Kia released images of the Korean market Carnival. I think it’s visually impressive and a much better attempt at making a minivan seem brawny compared to GM’s failed last attempts at minivans (Uplander, Terraza, etc.).
Having said that, I think that I still prefer the look of the 2021 Toyota Sienna. It too is more aggressive than before, but I think it’s a more cohesive look. In particular, I don’t like the way Kia placed part of the headlights in the grille area. I’ll have to wait and see if that is as noticeable in person.
The other thought, or potential concern, I have is that both the 2021 Sienna and the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica have interesting drivetrain options. Both will offer all-wheel drive (AWD) and either be hybrid only (Sienna) or offer a plug-in hybrid option (Pacifica, although disappointingly only with front-wheel drive).
We don’t have details on the Kia’s drivetrain, but have heard nothing about a Hyundai/Kia hybrid system that could power such a large vehicle. In theory, Kia could offer the AWD system that’s used on the Telluride, but we’ll have to wait and see as more information becomes available.
Minivans have long been a great road trip vehicle and I’m very excited to see these updated offerings.