KIA Sedona SX Makes More Sense Than the SXL

Before adding any packages, the SXL’s $3,500 price premium gets you different front and rear fascia with chrome accents and door handles. It rides on 19-inch chrome wheels instead of machine-finished 18s on the SX. Inside, you get dual sunroofs, Nappa leather, a leather- and wood-wrapped steering wheel, and lounge seating for two in the second row.

The SX Is All We Need

Although the Sedona SXL’s extra goods will make the Sedona look and feel more luxurious, they’re luxuries we can do without. The SX is all we need. Unlike lower trim levels, the SX comes with an 8-speaker Infinity sound system plus navigation on an 8-inch screen. It’s a massive upgrade over the infotainment system in the lower trims.

We also prefer the Slide-N-Stow and the removable second row over the SXL’s fancy lounge seats, making the Sedona a seven and not an eight-passenger minivan. Although we have to get by without dual sunroofs, we get the added benefit of better mileage thanks to less weight (an EPA-rated 18/25 city/highway versus the SXL’s 17/22 mpg). Smaller wheels and thicker sidewalls may contribute to our van’s nice ride.

In short

Because of our needs, the Sedona SX was the right choice. But if you only need to transport seven and not eight passengers, don’t mind reduced gas mileage, and your kids can’t live without Nappa leather, consider the Sedona SXL.