BRITAIN'S second best-selling large MPV the Kia Sedona is also the number one with private buyers so the release of an all-new model is an important moment.

Using the same platform that also underpins the new Magentis saloon, the Sedona's overall length of 4810mm makes it 120mm shorter than before, the wheelbase is almost the same at 2890mm and the cabin is 177mm longer as a result of some clever packaging.

The new Sedona is also 85mm wider (1985mm excluding mirrors) and 25mm taller (1760mm) to ensure it meets buyers'space requirements.

On the new model the front is bolder, the base of the windscreen is further forward to give a more dynamic sweep to the higher roof and the rear panels and the tailgate have a squarer, more stable appearance.

The old car's best points are found on the new one like the sliding rear side doors which are electrically-operated on LS and TS models. All versions have electric rear windows for the first time.

The seating layout has been changed from 2-2-3 to 2-3-2, a format buyers regard as essential in a large MPV for Europe. There are now five individual rear seats instead of two in the middle plus a rear bench.

Each of those seats slides forwards and backwards, reclines, folds in half, stores upright or comes out of the car altogether.

Kia will continue to offer V6 petrol and four-cylinder diesel Euro IV engines, but both develop 40bhp more than before.

On sale first, the diesel is a 2.9-litre unit, now with second-generation common-rail injection and a variable geometry turbocharger. It develops an increased 182bhp while preserving the 36.2mpg combined economy of its predecessor.

The V6, on sale in December, is Kia's new 2.7-litre Mu engine with continuously variable valve timing and a three-stage variable intake system contributing towards an output of 186bhp. Its combi-ned fuel consumption is 26.4mpg (25.7 previously).

The chassis is all-new, too. The turning circle of the new Sedona has been considerably improved. Kia also launches a world first, a variable rack stroke system. The advantage of this system is that it makes manoeuvring lighter and easier while at the same time creates space for snow chains.

Prices start at £15,995 for the petrol and £17,495 for the diesel.