Summary: The redesigned Korean minivan goes on sale in the fall in two sizes. Also, Kia Motors America asks parent company for a convertible.
Full story: Korean manufacturer Kia rolls out its redesigned 2006 Sedona minivan, which is longer and wider than the current model, at this week's Chicago auto show.
Peter Butterfield, president and CEO of Kia Motors America, told Inside Line: "[The Sedona] will come out with a long body and a short body, so that covers that segment."
A third-row seat that folds flat into the floor will be standard.
Kia spokesman Kim Custer said the new version will also feature standard side-curtain airbags that protect outboard passengers in all three rows, as well as standard four-wheel antilock brakes.
Butterfield has ambitious plans for the brand and is studying whether to add a convertible and a pickup truck to the North American market.
"There are no plans for a convertible, but we've requested one from KMC [Kia Motors Corporation]," he said. "We could probably sell 20,000-40,000 in North America."
Kia's American arm is also evaluating the financing aspects of entering into the truck business, including North American production facilities.
What this means to you: Kia is not only unveiling an improved minivan this year, but there are hints it might expand into new territory as well. That's good news for cost-conscious shoppers.
Full story: Korean manufacturer Kia rolls out its redesigned 2006 Sedona minivan, which is longer and wider than the current model, at this week's Chicago auto show.
Peter Butterfield, president and CEO of Kia Motors America, told Inside Line: "[The Sedona] will come out with a long body and a short body, so that covers that segment."
A third-row seat that folds flat into the floor will be standard.
Kia spokesman Kim Custer said the new version will also feature standard side-curtain airbags that protect outboard passengers in all three rows, as well as standard four-wheel antilock brakes.
Butterfield has ambitious plans for the brand and is studying whether to add a convertible and a pickup truck to the North American market.
"There are no plans for a convertible, but we've requested one from KMC [Kia Motors Corporation]," he said. "We could probably sell 20,000-40,000 in North America."
Kia's American arm is also evaluating the financing aspects of entering into the truck business, including North American production facilities.
What this means to you: Kia is not only unveiling an improved minivan this year, but there are hints it might expand into new territory as well. That's good news for cost-conscious shoppers.
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