A power side door system for a motor vehicle includes a vehicle side door connected to a vehicle body and an actuator for displacing the side door between an open and a closed position. The system further includes a presence sensor to determine a change in presence of an individual in a seat position adjacent the side door. Further, the system includes a controller responsive to the presence sensor to control operation of the actuator. Advantageously the system automatically closes the door either after an individual enters the vehicle and occupies the seat or after an individual vacates the seat and leaves the vehicle.