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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  KIA Sedona is so terrible car. - 2015 Kia Sedona
  By Dijei - April 24 - 1:11 pm

  KIA Sedona is so terrible car. Because I experienced lots of car problems and poor service about KIA Sedona and car agency in only one year after buying the car. For example, several times water leaking of sun roof, Front windows projecting rubber, Flat tire, Failure of auto alarm, etc.. The worst thing is terrible service of KIA car agency and Support Center. They didnt take care of customers inconvenience and discomport due to their car, not at all. And they didnt response customers problem. Their service is so terrible. So I would not buy KIA car in the future any more.

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  Bad experience w/ Kia vehicle & service - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By Laura - February 6 - 3:36 am

  I bought Kia Sedona 2007 due to my past good experience with products from Samsung and I was fooled by 10 year 100,00 miles warranty. The vehicle broke down within 1 year and took them 4 months to find what was wrong. Before they found out the root cause, they blamed me for putting a wrong type of gas in the tank. They told me that their vehicles do not take gas from Costco, Wal-Mart or Quick Trip. This 10 year, 100,000 miles is not the sign of their confidence on their products, but a fake cover over their bad quality products and services. I almost had heart attacks dealing with their people. I hope you do not have to go through what I have gone through.

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  BUYER BEWARE!!! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By kreeate - February 3 - 11:14 pm

  Despite spotty reviews, we bought our van in 2005 because of the safety ratings. I now feel sick that we wasted so much money on this vehicle! I drive very little so the mileage is still low and we kept up on maintenance. Despite that the power steering has had ongoing issues, no air conditioning, the power accessories dont work, the electrical system has issues, the drivers side window leaks, one exterior door handle doesnt work,the cheap foil covering the inside handles flake off and cut our fingers, and the transmission is now going out. Once we were driving and parts from the inside wheel started falling out and bouncing down the road. We have wasted thousands in repairs. Do not buy!

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  Do NOT buy a KIA ! - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By williamsabode - January 11 - 2:27 pm

  I would like to know who writes these reviews. As I said, Do Not buy a Kia. You will probably need every little bit of the so called associated warranty as there is not much on these sedonas that you wont have problems with. Hey Im not banging on the Sedona just to be contrary but you will have nothing but problems with these things. There is not enough space here to list them all but just so you know what we dealt with from the get go has been; rotors, doors (Front, Back & sliding), engine, alternator, heater control, brakes, electrical, etc, etc, etc, etc, etc....... you name it. Please talk to someone who has owned one (at least a yr) long enough to know something. Wish I had !

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  Poor vehicle/Poor Customer Service - 2010 Kia Sedona
  By seemang - December 31 - 10:00 am

  KIA is dishonest. Standard options dont come standard. 15 mpg instead of 21 mpg. The engine light came on at only 500 miles. It handles poorly. Acceleration is weak. It has the feeling of a 4 cylinder. It doesnt have all the options that its competitors have. The options they do have dont have the functionality of its competitors. For example, it has radio controls on the steering wheel, yet you cant change the station or go to the next song on the wheel. You still have to go to the radio. ***Spend a little bit more upfront for a more reliable minivan. Itll be cheaper in the long run.

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  Do Not Buy a Kia - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Piece of Junk - August 15 - 9:33 pm

  This van has been a complete piece of junk from day one. Gas mileage is horrible. Transmission went at 15,000 miles. Front Brakes need to be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. A/C system has been completely replaced and still does not cool well and is extremely noisy. The following also have been replaced: Alternator, Front Hub Bearings (twice), front struts, front stabilizer links, rear heater lines, accelerator cable and battery. Do not buy this van unless you like visiting the service department very often. Worst automobile purchase I have ever made. A PIECE OF JUNK!!!

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  kia sedona - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By 4gs - March 4 - 10:03 pm

  We have had a terrible experience with our Kia Sedona. It gets terrible gas mileage. We had some work that needed to be done that was covered under warranty, and they did not fix it. It is a very heavy van and does not ride very smooth. Would not recomend it to anyone.

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  Engine stall while driving - 2015 Kia Sedona
  By Ching - February 27 - 4:27 pm

  At only 800 miles since bought new, the car engine stopped and the steering wheel locked by itself while driving with my 2 year old son and 9 month pregnant wife. The car had to be towed to the dealership and I was told it needs a new computer. Now I am waiting for their final response to see if it gets repaired. Dont know how much I will trust its safety in the future travelling with my family. Very Disappointed!

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  Dont Buy a Kia - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By barb niccum - July 3 - 2:36 am

  We have owned/leased/operated 9 new cars. Most we have traded in within a few years. A few we have kept past their shelf life; but with great results. Bottom of the list? you got it. My 2002 kia sedona mini van. Purchased brand new in may 2002. Fast forward 7 short years; yes only 7 short years…to a complete and utter piece of junk. Evidently there is a ‘line’ that runs the length of the van that holds and circulates your engine coolant. Well its a very bad thing when the line rusts completely through and you leak said engine coolant. You would think that there would be light for this type of complete malfunction…but the only light is the one telling you that your motor just burned up.

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  The 45,000 miles Kia - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By theld62 - May 2 - 3:36 am

  It appears that KIA products are good for about 45,000 miles. After that quality significantly falls off. At 45,000 miles I had a $1,000 scheduled maintenance bill at the dealer. My KIA Sedona died of terminal engine failure at 79,000 miles. KIA says they are not responsible for the repair. So much for the long haul warranty. Needless to say I will never purchase a KIA or Hyundai brand product ever again, and I will tell everyone I know about my experience with KIA "no service" Even other auto makers call the KIAs throw away cars because their resell value is next to nothing after just a few years. Mark my words you will be sorry for the day you ever bought a KIA or a Hyundai.