When it comes to minivans, the 2009 Kia Sedona unfortunately ranks near the bottom. It performs better than previous incarnations and is still an acceptable transportation choice, but it’s not a car you should rush out to buy. The last major redesign of this vehicle was in 2006, and for 2009, you can choose from the base model or the LX or EX upgrades.

The standard engine on the Sedona is a 3.8 liter, 250 horsepower V6. While it generally does well, it can sometimes struggle with the vehicle’s 4,300 plus pounds. Fuel economy is OK for the vehicle’s size, with estimates of 16 and 23 mpg in the city and highway respectively. Overall, the transmission works well with the engine.

The Sedona has independent MacPherson struts with coil springs, which cause the body to lean a little on tight corners. The rack and pinion steering works for the vehicle size, but you won’t get much road feedback from the steering wheel. Then again, for most drivers of minivans, that isn’t really an overriding concern. Minivans aren’t sports cars after all – but then neither can sports cars comfortably seat up to seven.

And those seven people will find themselves an interior that’s comfortable, but not especially luxurious or stylish. Again, comfort is probably more important to those who drive minivans. The front and middle rows will carry two passengers each, while the third row can handle three children or two adults comfortably. There are captain’s chairs in the second row which recline and can be removed and folded down for easy access to the third row.

A number of features are standard on the Sedona, including three zone climate controls, which is nice to find on a vehicle in this price range. Other standard features are an AM/FM/CD audio system, power front windows, keyless entry, power door locks and cruise control. The front row has extendable side tables and plenty of those necessary conveniences of modern life – cup holders.

The Kia Sedona also comes with impressive safety ratings – five out of five stars on front and side impact crashes, and a four out of five stars rating in rollovers. Standard safety features include electronic stability control and traction control, brake assist with four wheel anti-lock disc brakes, an electronic brake-force distribution system, and a system that monitors tire pressure.

The EX package also offers a back-up warning system – a feature that appeals to parents especially. There a numerous air bags, including dual front advanced, dual front seat mounted and full length side curtains. All seats offer three point seat belts, and the front seat belts have pre-tensioners and force limiters. The first and second row belts also have height adjustable belt anchors. Crumple zones are located in the front and rear of the minivan and the steering column is designed to absorb impact. Finally, there’s a LATCH system – lower anchors and tethers for children – to help keep kids even safer.

If you need to carry more than just kids, you’ll like the cargo room in this minivan. Fold down the third row and remove the second row captain’s chairs and you have 121.3 cubic feet with the base model. Step up to the LX and EX models, and you gain an additional 20 cubic feet of cargo space. In addition, there are plenty of places to stash small items, like purses, cell phones, electronic game controllers and snacks. The Sedona does a great job of keeping you organized, which is a major plus for most parents-on-the-go.