Overview & Reviews

The Kia Sedona may not be the first name you think of when shopping for a new or used minivan. The original Sedona had almost everything needed to be a success in the minivan segment, but it was pudgy, weighing some 400-700 pounds more than its rivals, which blunted acceleration at higher speeds and didn't do much for cornering ability. Still, overall performance was relatively refined, if not exciting.

With the second-generation Sedona benefiting from a diet and more power under the hood, Kia's minivan is no longer huffing and puffing to catch up to the more expensive class leaders. Plus, it delivers in the key areas of build quality, passenger comfort, crash test scores and storage space. However, this Sedona has been in production for many years without a major redesign. Late-model Sedonas have been eclipsed by more recently redesigned rivals.

Current Kia Sedona
After a one-year hiatus, the Kia Sedona has returned for 2014, essentially unchanged except for a few styling updates. Power is provided by the 3.5-liter V6 that's now rated at 269 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque and again paired up with a six-speed automatic.

Inside there is seven-passenger capacity with second-row captain's chairs and a 60/40-split third row that folds into the floor. Sized similarly to most other minivans, the Sedona offers plenty of legroom for all three rows, though the third-row seat suffers from a low cushion and limited headroom for taller folks. Maximum cargo space rates a generous 142 cubic feet, and plenty of cubbies are available for quick stowage of things like cell phones, purses and snacks.

The base LX comes with foglights, roof rack rails, rear parking sensors, air-conditioning with rear controls, a 60/40-split third-row seat, cruise control, a tilt-only steering wheel, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, a USB port and an auxiliary audio jack. An option package adds alloy wheels, dual power-sliding side doors, a rearview camera and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Highlights of the EX include a power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery and heated front seats. EX options include a sunroof, rain-sensing windshield wipers, power-adjustable pedals, driver's memory presets and a navigation system that includes an eight-speaker Infinity sound system.

All told, the latest Sedona still has some nice attributes, including a smooth ride, secure handling, attractive pricing, a roomy interior and, of course, Kia's healthy warranty coverage. However, the Sedona lacks some of its more modern rivals' refinement. Additionally, it's not available with some useful minivan features, such as keyless ignition/entry, a rear-seat entertainment system, blind-spot monitoring and a second-row bench seat. If overall value is more important than having the latest gizmos, then the Sedona should satisfy. If not, we suggest also checking out its competition.

Used Kia Sedona Models
The second-generation Kia Sedona minivan debuted in 2006 and ran through 2012, after which it took a one-year hiatus. Originally, this Sedona was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 with 244 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. Output went up to 250 hp from 2007-'09, but was dropped back to 244 for 2010. A five-speed automatic was standard. For '11 the Sedona received a more sophisticated 3.5-liter V6 (rated at 271 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque) matched to a six-speed automatic. Given its superior power and fuel economy, if you have a choice we recommend this powertrain over the earlier one.

From 2007-'10, the Sedona was also offered in a short-wheelbase model that gave up 5 inches to the regular Sedona and featured a 50/50-split removable third-row bench. It was offered in base trim only.

Inside, these Sedonas are somewhat plain but not unattractive. Most cabin materials are of decent quality, but there are a few cheap-feeling elements here and there. Gauges and controls are easy to use, apart from the less-than-intuitive manual climate control.

Available in LX and EX trim levels, even the most basic Sedona has a full complement of safety features, front and rear climate controls, keyless entry, full power features and, for '09 and later, satellite radio and an iPod/USB audio jack. Bluetooth connectivity was added for '11. Springing for the EX means added luxury features such as alloy wheels, a power liftgate, power seats and a trip computer. Leather upholstery, a DVD entertainment system, a navigation system and a rearview camera were optional on the EX.

In reviews, we found these Sedonas offered solid performance, a quiet and comfortable ride and confident handling. Given its long warranty, well-rounded nature and attractive pricing, a used Sedona from this generation makes a good choice for a families looking for maximum minivan value.

The first-generation Kia Sedona ran from 2002-'05 and went with the "most features for the money" strategy. But in addition to providing a lot for families on a tight budget, the Sedona also boasted excellent build quality and impressive crash test scores. However, compared to its successors, this Sedona was 400 pounds heavier and its modest 3.5-liter 195-hp V6 didn't help matters. Two trim levels were offered: well-equipped LX and plusher EX.

The debit side of the ledger included a portly weight of 4,800 pounds (anywhere from 400-700 pounds heavier than its competitors), somewhat lazy handling and mediocre steering feel and response. This Sedona also lacks a fold-flat third-row seat and therefore doesn't offer as much cargo flexibility and capacity as some other vans with that feature.

We liked this Kia Sedona for its comfortable seating, roomy cabin, quiet ride and high crash test scores. Poor reliability could be a concern, however. Only minor detail changes, such as slight revisions to the grille and taillights, occurred during this Sedona's four-year run, so condition and mileage should be the chief considerations when shopping for one.

User Reviews:

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  Did I mention... - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By beamin2 - March 26 - 6:08 pm

  I had a BMW 5-series when I first got this van to drive my kids around. They (I have 3) were getting into fights in the BMW. This van solved the problem, with captains chairs in the middle and the third row in the back. Two years later, the BMW is gone, since I was never driving it. Either I had the kids, or was parking in a garage, or the weather was bad.... pretty soon, I was driving the van all the time.... ;)

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  Great value for money - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By beamin2 - March 17 - 11:11 am

  Bought this van in 2009 with 64k+ miles on it, for less than $7k. Have put on 25k miles in the last two years. I have probably spent $3k in repairs on it (struts, an airbag sensor, brake pads, regular service), but even for $10k its been a great value. And edmunds still values at 6k. :) Beats not having a car payment, and not afraid to get some beach sand in it!

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  Great Value - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Bill B - March 11 - 9:13 pm

  Steering Wheel buttons rubbing off. Bumpers withstand very little without paint chip. Typical lack of room in regular sized minivan and/or SUV

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  What can I say - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By ma - March 11 - 2:16 pm

  Purchased our 2002 Kia Sedona new from show room floor. Ran well for first year and then the problems started. Loud humming from front end. Dealer said tires, turned out to bad defective boots. Alternator died at 62,000 during a highway drive at 65 mph. 80,000 miles, car begins to surge forward and loose power. Check engine light came on - dealer has no idea on problem. Been in shop a number of times to diagnose issue. Unsafe vehicle at this time which I would not have my family in anymore. Went out and purchased a Toyota Sienna Limited after owning a Tundra as well. What a world of difference. My 98 Pontiac Montana w/replace transmission was more reliable then this KIA piece of junk!!

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  My 1st Kia - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By rwanek6 - February 26 - 1:00 am

  Have owned this car for over a year. Outstanding in every sense of the word except for the poor gas mileage. Have taken it on three trips so far and comfort and driving experience outstanding, very disappointed in gas mileage with or without a full load of people and luggage. Outstanding exterior appearance.

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  Kia has winner in the Sedona - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By HappyWithSedona - February 25 - 10:00 am

  I bought the Kia Sedona EX, all options for $21,500 Everything is perfect.It drives great & is very quiet. As a service to those who are in the market for a minivan, I offer the following to consider: #1. You would have to pay $7,000 to $10,000 extra to get a comparable mini van from Honda, Toyota, Dodge … #2. The only real question mark concerns the quality and reliability of the Sedona. To put my mind at ease, I talked to 3 different Kia mechanics, from 3 different dealers, and they all said the same thing…The Sedona is the first vehicle Kia has produced that meets the Japanese in initial quality and reliability.

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  2004 kia - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By haughtt1 - February 22 - 10:00 am

  WE used this site to look for a new mini van..even though you recommended others, we found the kia to be extremely comptetive in its class.Excellent value with quality inside and out. Also the best warrenty..We could not justify spending 3-5,000$ more just to have a Honda or Toyota sitting in the garage,or getting a stripped down version of a caravan instead of a loaded sedona..Thanks

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  Warranty is a scam - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By chdsgrl - February 21 - 5:23 pm

  The problem I have with KIA in general is the warranty. They sell you the car with this great warranty and then pretty much refuse to honor it if they can. "Lack of maintenance" is a global loop-hole they use to not do warranty work. I have 49,000 mi on my car and theyre saying I need a new engine due to the above and wont warranty it. I do not "need" a new engine, and I have done the recommended services per the warranty policy. But, again, they wont honor it. Nobody at the dealership cares, or at KIA corporate. My husband has a honda with twice as many miles, and has had no problems. Steer clear of KIA and stick with a reliable manufacturer.

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  My Second KIA - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Nomadict - February 16 - 9:26 am

  Great van until problems start, lost power @40K replace 6 spark plugs and fuel filter, total $555.62. Not Warranty. 28 days later, NO Power. Parts replaced as follows, Transmission, Alternator, Fan Belt, Upper Motor Mount, Both O2 sensors (twice), Catalytic Converter, and Battery. All warranty except battery. This only took from Feb 26 till April 6. I called about the Recall on Throttle Cable, I was told to call back in a month or so. Went in this past Mon with AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT and NO HORN. The earliest appointment to have it looked io 8 days later, yes EIGHT DAYS. I LOVE MY SEDONA.

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  dont pay more for a name brand - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By dino1 - February 13 - 2:00 am

  We have had our Sedona for six months now, and we love it! No problems at all.At first we were a little leary about buying a Kia, but with all the great extras you get(moonroof,cd player,power everything)then the warranty, and of course the huge savings over the other guys, we would be stupid to get anything else. Although it does use a lot of gas!