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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  Old Codgers Comfort Zone - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Marion - March 1 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 2002 Sedona In 2004.It had 22K miles on it, Now has 106K miles. the only thing I have replaced are tires, brake pads, battery, and recently the alternator, which are normal replacement items. The van is dependable,and performs very well.

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  LOVE IT - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By C Hyde - February 26 - 4:56 pm

  I absolutely love this van. Funny thing is, I never looked at a Kia van before I walked in and bought this one. I have the EX model. Nicely well equipped. This has so many options, I guarantee I still havent found some. One of the options that blew me away was the "heated windshield wipers"! I was told that these are an awesome feature for winter (which is horrible in Ohio) because they keep your wipers from sticking to the window! Awesome. I love my Sedona and will definitely be buying the new and updated version that was just displayed at the 2005 auto show. (LOVE the middle windows that roll down!) In summation: BUY ONE! (you wont regret it!).

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  Best decision in a long time... - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By AF_Dad - February 25 - 2:00 am

  Extensively researched minis for a WHILE, and simply could not find a better value. Got an EX loaded to the gills with every option and paid less than a stripped Odyssey. With a much better warranty to boot. Build quality similar to my old Cherokee, which is saying something. Totally satisfied so far, but of course time will tell the rest.

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  KIA? - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By TRIMENT - February 8 - 11:23 pm

  BANG FOR THE BUCK DESCRIBES THIS VEHICLE. YOU GET MORE THAN YOUR MONEYS WORTH AND CAN SURPRISE MANY HIGH END MINI-VANS WITH ITS TORQUE, POWER AND SMOOTHNESS. FINISH QUALITY EXTENDS FROM THE INTERIOR ALL THE WAY TO THE EXTERIOR, SO DONT LET THE PRICE FOOL YOU, KEEP THE MAINSTREAM GUESSING. THE WARRANTY IS NOT HALF BAD EITHER.

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  Is any one there? - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By jsosa - February 4 - 9:36 pm

  My new experiance with Kia left me happy. I enjoy the power to pass when and who I want. Yet the fuel milage could be better. (20 mile per/gallon tops, on a good day). The room is adequate for my family of six. I had only one problem with my Kia in 8,700 miles. The rear heater stopped working shortly after I purchased my family van. And the dealer is so far away, it is a real experience taking it in (45 minutes away) for repair. Not only is it far, but with four kids it really makes it a miserable task.

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  2003 Sedona - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Rick S. - February 2 - 6:06 am

  I found the Sedona very comfortable to drive. I liked the overall styling of it, but I wish it would have had a bigger trunk area for luggage or groceries.The gas mileage could be better, over 20 mpg would be nice. The Sedona handled very well on dry or wet roads and we havent had any problems with it other than normal maintenance. The safety rating was a big factor in our decision to buy it and I would buy another.

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  Great van! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Soccermom - January 29 - 12:00 pm

  We have 4 kids (including a newborn in a carseat), 3 boys into soccer and we love this van. I agree, they could make the seats easier to remove/reinstall, and the exterior does dent easily. I have no problems with the AC being too noisy though. Only problem we had was the brakes went out when I was 7 months pregnant, but Kia sent roadside assistance and towed us, free-of-charge to the dealership, fixed it for free. It was a faulty chip in the ABS. Wish there was more headroom in the 3rd row. But overall, this has been a wonderful minivan for the cost. I could not justify blowing $35K+ on a higher- scale minivan. Great van for the price. Were going to trade up soon to the EX.

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  Where is the space? - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By unhappy1 - January 29 - 2:46 am

  I just traded my 00 Dodge Caravan AWD in for a 06 Kia Sedona LX. I have only driven it 75 miles. I was used to having more storage space in my Caravan. No under the seat drawer to put misc stuff. Also, that fold down tray between the driver and passenger is a real waste. For moms who drive, where do you put your purse, the Kleenex box and all those little things you like to keep at hand? I like the cargo net that I had in my Caravan. I have the manual seat adjustment and am having a hard time getting the seat to fit me. With long legs and short torso, I use the lever to raise the seat but it also moves it forward cramping my legs. The sunglass holder only hold small glasses.

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  New to Kia - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Adrian McGee - January 19 - 9:00 am

  Hey, I just bought my Sedona two months ago and I have been having problems with my sliding doors. After I close the passenger side door, the door will open by itself. I have been to the dealer three times so far. And the gas mileage is way off on the screen above the mirror. My gas light comes on when the screen will say I have about 40 more miles. Is it just me or what?

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  Great Van at a Great Price - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Brandt1971 - January 14 - 2:00 am

  We purchased our van a few wmonths ago and this is a wonderful van at a great price. we have the LX model and this comes with excellent features. Rear air/heat six speaker stereo, dual sliding doors and excellent capacity to store and carry everything from passengers to equiptment. Great pick up with the 195HP engine and a quite smooth ride. the only negative would be the gas usage. For this price and all the options. I would recommend this van to all families on a budget looking for a great deal!