NEW FOR 2006

Kia's original minivan offering in Canada was an overweight under-achiever that had little to commend it beyond a boatload of bells and whistles for the money.

But when this Korean automaker sets out to update its products, it doesn't settle for baby steps. "Quantum leap" would be a better metaphor to describe the new-generation Sedona. While still delivering class-leading features for the dollar, it's also a contender in its functionality, safety and driving dynamics.

Kia stretched the body in almost every direction to make Sedona one of the largest long-wheelbase minivans out there -- and at the same time shaved its weight. Luggage space behind the third-row seat has expanded by 48 percent, said seat being a 60/40 split that folds down into the floor. The sliding second-row buckets can fold-and-tumble, or be removed altogether.

Standard features on the base LX include tri-zone A/C, back-up warning system, ABS, tire-pressure monitoring, heated windshield, keyless entry, power windows and power heated door mirrors.

Under the hood is a 3.8-litre version of Kia-Hyundai's smooth Lambda V6. Here it produces a Honda-Odyssey-matching 244 horsepower and puts it to the ground through a five-speed automatic transmission. Other technicalities include four-wheel disc brakes and fully independent suspension.

An engine worthy of a Honda in a high-value package

Resale not on par with Japanese competitors