Market Position:
The 2008 Kia Sedona (VQ) was positioned as a family-oriented minivan, competing in a segment dominated by established players like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Chrysler minivans. It aimed to offer value, practicality, and a distinctive European-inspired design (developed under Hyundai-Kia's European design center).
Competitive Analysis:
Competed on price point and features, often perceived as a more budget-friendly alternative to premium offerings. Its VQ platform, shared with the Hyundai Entourage, emphasized a comfortable ride and spacious interior. The 2008 model year saw minor updates as it was nearing the end of its lifecycle before a significant redesign.
Key Features:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, standard V6 engine, available all-wheel drive (optional), and a strong value proposition compared to competitors. The manual software provides essential technical data for maintaining and repairing these features.
Coverage Areas:
All mechanical, electrical, chassis, and body systems; maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repair procedures.
Page Count:
Extensive (typical for official service manuals, often 2000+ pages)
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (Digital, likely PDF or proprietary application)
Systems Covered:
Engine (mechanical and electronic), Transmission (automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Body & Chassis Electrical, Bodywork, Interior components, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, oil changes, filter replacements, brake system service, steering and suspension component replacement, electrical system troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures for engine and transmission, body panel repair, interior trim removal/installation, air conditioning system servicing, power sliding door system maintenance.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to complex component overhaul and advanced electronic diagnostics, including torque specifications, wiring diagrams, and component testing procedures.
Primary Engine:
3.8L Lambda V6 (G6DA)
Horsepower:
244 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
255 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Displacement:
3.778 liters (3778 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
96.0 mm x 87.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 valves (4 per cylinder)
Oil Capacity:
5.5 US quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil:
API SM or higher, SAE 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic
Timing Mechanism:
Timing Chain
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.6 US quarts (8.1 liters) for refill (check manual for exact capacity and type)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification)
Length:
201.0 inches (5105 mm)
Width:
77.4 inches (1965 mm)
Height:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Wheelbase:
118.1 inches (3000 mm)
Seating Capacity:
7 or 8 passengers
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
33.0 cu ft (934 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
77.0 cu ft (2180 liters)
Cargo Volume All Seats Folded:
141.7 cu ft (4012 liters)
Curb Weight:
4,409 lbs (2000 kg) - FWD, 4,586 lbs (2080 kg) - AWD (approximate, varies by trim)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5,800 lbs (2630 kg) - FWD, 5,990 lbs (2717 kg) - AWD
Towing Capacity:
3,500 lbs (1588 kg) with trailer brakes (350 lbs tongue weight); 1,000 lbs (454 kg) without trailer brakes.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5 Stars (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5 Stars (Front and Rear Passengers)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Passive Features:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (for all three rows), active head restraints, 3-point seatbelts for all occupants.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System:
Standard on LX, EX, EX-L trims.
Infotainment System:
Available DVD Entertainment System, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability. Higher trims may feature a touchscreen interface.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, rear parking assist sensors (optional on some trims), rearview camera (optional on EX-L).
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input jack, USB port (on some later models or aftermarket), Bluetooth hands-free calling (optional on EX-L).
Climate Control Type:
Manual or automatic climate control with dual-zone front and rear climate control options.
Lighting Features:
Projector-beam headlights, fog lights (optional), power adjustable mirrors, interior courtesy lighting.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), or more frequently under dusty conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Iridium spark plugs: 105,000 miles (168,000 km).
Coolant Type:
Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, blue color) or equivalent meeting MS-591-08 specification.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Kia Genuine PSF-III or equivalent power steering fluid (refer to manual).
Known Issues:
Potential for early generation automatic transmission issues (though less common on the VQ), water pump leaks, and some electrical glitches. Brake wear and suspension components are also common maintenance items for high-mileage minivans.
DTC P0455 Evap Leak:
Commonly associated with loose or faulty fuel filler cap, or EVAP system leaks. Manual provides diagnostic steps.
Power Sliding Door Issues:
Common on many minivans of this era; can include motor issues, cable binding, or sensor malfunctions. Manual covers troubleshooting and adjustment.
Brand Heritage:
Kia, a South Korean automaker, has grown significantly since its inception in 1944. Known for offering value and a comprehensive warranty, Kia has established itself as a major global player in the automotive industry.
Model Evolution:
The Kia Sedona (also known as Carnival in some markets) was first introduced globally in 1998. The second generation (VQ) debuted for the 2006 model year and was a significant improvement over its predecessor, featuring a new platform, styling, and powertrain. The 2008 model year represents a mid-cycle update, with minor styling tweaks and feature enhancements.
Production Location:
Hwasung Plant, South Korea.
Production Years Vq Generation:
2006-2014
Recognitions:
While not a recipient of major 'Car of the Year' awards, the Sedona's VQ generation generally received positive reviews for its practicality, spaciousness, and value. It was often cited in 'best value minivan' comparisons.
Ratings:
Consistently received good to excellent safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, contributing to its appeal as a family vehicle.