Recently, Autotrader named the Kia Sedona as the "Must Test Drive" Vehicle for 2016. And if you are in the market for a minivan, the Sedona is certainly an excellent option to consider. It has been highly praised by critics for being a multi-purpose vehicle that transcends conventional minivan design and supports an elevated ownership experience.

So, while you are shopping for your next (or first) minivan, you may want to find out what the buzz is about by test driving a Kia Sedona. And even if you immediately fall in love with the vehicle, just so you know you are making the right choice, it would be wise to at least take a look at a few other options.

The Kia Sedona Minivan

Autotrader awards "top pick" status to a vehicle based on a diverse set of criteria outlined by their editorial experts who log thousands of miles test driving the latest cars, trucks, vans and SUVs each year. In order to be chosen for the Autotrader "Must Test Drive" distinction, a vehicle must be available for purchase at the time of the award announcement, be of the current or next model year, have a base price that is under $75,000 and offer a "significant value" for the asking price.minivan

About this year's winner, executive editor of Auto Trader, Brian Moody, has said:

"Even though the Kia Sedona is an ultra-functional minivan, it manages to be quite stylish as well, and to our eyes, it's the best looking minivan available. The interior textures and available colors are excellent and that is backed up with a quiet comfortable ride that feels more like a luxury sedan than a family wagon . . . Useful, stylish, affordable and packed with thoughtful features at every trim level, the Kia Sedona is simply an excellent family car no matter what else you're considering."

Reviewers have noted that the Sedona stands out in its class because of its cab-forward design and wide array of available driver-aid technologies. Back-up cameras are standard on the Sedona and available features include a Surround View Monitor, Smart Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection and Lane Departure Warning. Inside of the minivan's "spacious" cabin, you will find a generous use of soft-touch materials and premium amenities.

And while it seems like the Sedona is a tough minivan to beat, it has a few rivals that are worthy of your attention and consideration.

Other Minivan Options

Now is a really good time to be looking at minivans. There are several on the market right now that have received excellent reviews from both critics and drivers alike.

  • The Honda Odyssey: Ranked as the number one minivan of 2016 by U.S. News and World Report (the Sedona was ranked third), the Odyssey has been praised for offering a smooth ride, agile handling and lots of family-friendly interior features. It is also considered to be extremely affordable to own.
  • The Toyota Sienna: Unlike other SUVs or minivans that may have a small or awkward third row of seating, all of the available seating in the Sienna has been described as "comfortable" and "spacious." The Sienna has also scored high safety ratings and offers a large amount of cargo room.
  • The Chrysler Town and Country: Grab one while you can. Chrysler has retired this model, but reviewers still love the 2016 version with its long list of standard features, powerful V6 engine and those classic Stow 'n Go seats. It should be noted, however, that early reviews of the Town and Country's replacement, the Pacifica (available soon), have been largely favorable.
  • The Nissan Quest: If riding in style is a priority of yours, the Quest, with its high-end and handsome interior, may be the minivan for you. It also comes standard with an automatic transmission and a V6 engine. In terms of gas mileage, the Quest gets 20/27 mpg city/highway, which is good for its class.

All of the models described are new vehicles, but if you are interested in a more budget-friendly purchase, each of them (with the exception of the Pacifica) can be purchased used. Whatever minivan you choose for your family, new or used, just remember to take a test drive first. You will want to be sure that everyone fits and that all of your passengers will be able to ride in comfort for years to come.

And no matter what kind of minvan you decide to purchase, take care of your investment with the right auto warranty. Click here for information about the best coverage and rates.

Family Financing

If a minivan is the right vehicle for you, there is a good chance that you have a family to look after. With this in mind, you probably want to get the best possible deal on your auto financing. Auto Credit Express can help you do just that. Even if you have damaged credit, we can connect you with a dealer in your area who has the experience and qualifications necessary to work with your situation. You will get a fair deal on your auto loan, and you won't have to visit or call all over town to get the right kind of treatment.

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