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:

• 

  Love, love, love the PARDY VAN!!!!! - 2016 Kia Sedona
  By Daezjones11814 - May 31 - 8:33 am

  We have the BEST minivan on the market! We have the Sedona SX Limited with the technology package, dual sunroofs, and all the bells and whistles. Instead of going for the eighth seat we went with the second row with foot rests. Weve been on a few road trips already and the foot rests were of great value. The heated and cool seats are amazing! The driver seat contours to my body which makes driving very comfy. Ive only been in the passenger seat twice but when I was in it it felt just as good as the drivers seat. The power sliding doors are heaven sent. Also the power life gate is a must if you have children. The leather is very easy to clean spills off of, bonus!! The gas mileage is good compared to other vehicles, city about 19 and straight highway 25-28. Overall this vehicle is a must if you have a family or are starting one. You wont be disappointed with this minivan.

• 

  a must buy - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By mechan - May 24 - 10:00 am

  this is the most likeable van i have over owned and i am going to trade this one in for a newer one so i can keep on taking my kids places they need to be and i just love it

• 

  I love my Kia!! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Cabbet - May 24 - 10:00 am

  This is the easiest minivan to drive, my sister who is intimidated with the size of minivans said it was easy to handle. It has a great turn radius, handles the road extreemely well.....I just wish it got a little better gas mileage. The CD player is great..... And I love where the shifter is located. I also like the light indication for each gear as opposed to the needle indicator. This is a well designed minivan, I love it. I have own a 1993 Mercury Villager, 1995 Dodge Grand Caravan, 2002 Chrystler Town and Country and now a 2003 Kia, and I love this one the most!!!!! (the 95 Dodge Caravan is in last place)

• 

  We love our new Sedona! - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By wleslie - May 24 - 4:26 am

  We just traded in our 04 Sedona for a loaded 06 Sedona and we love it.

• 

  Comfortable highway cruiser - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Rob - May 19 - 9:23 am

  Already took my Sedona on a 3,000 mile trip, and was surprised to have almost no aches and pains during that time. Besides great supportive seats, pros include good visibility and build quality/fit & finish. I like how its smaller then other mini-vans, which makes it easier to drive around town. Negatives include high Wind noise, and poor gas mileage. Acceleration could be a little better as well.

• 

  Worst Car Ive ever owned - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By frommissouir2 - May 16 - 2:46 am

  I have had the oil changed at the dealer for the entire life of this car simply because every time it was time to change the oil something else was broken on it. The air bag light just came on this morning, and the check engine light has been lighting up regularly so BACK TO THE DEALER we go. I still plan on driving it until the wheels fall off but I will NEVER buy another KIA.

• 

  100,000 miles with no problems - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Art Muriph - May 12 - 4:03 am

  We bought the Kia Sedona after having rented one while on vacation. Considered a Honda Odyssey at 30k but found a brand new 2006 left over for 16,700 a huge svings. We have driven the van daily and cross country for 2.5 years and put 100,000 miles on it without any problems. My only complaint was with the original tires that wore out at only 30k replaced them with goodyear assurance comford treat tires with a 80 k warantee and they are still going strong. The only service the van has seen is an walmart brand synthetic oil change every 7000 miles or so. I havent even had to do a brake job yet!!! I have had several hondas and I would say the kia is just as reliable for me.

• 

  tooo many trips back to the shop - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Ssnoah77 - May 11 - 2:00 am

  the truth of the matter is......Sedona is a nice van..that rides well....but a lot of things,little as they may be, go wrong with it. I mean, I have been back to the shop at least 12 times in just 6 months. Yes, it is true...but these are things that the dealer has to fix...like power seats, windows, mirrors, etc. So...if you dont want to go to the shop all time....look else where. My parents caravan is never in the shop....

• 

  Latent Battery Related Issues - 2010 Kia Sedona
  By mytwocents - May 3 - 6:27 pm

  Purchased in March 2010, roughly 6 months later began having unexplained occurrences of the battery dying. Dealer found nothing wrong, yet the issue persists sporadically even to this day.

• 

  VERY Glitchy Electronics, very good Driving - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By Kris S..... - April 27 - 12:25 pm

  Headlights keep blowing due to faulty connectors to bulbs, power doors open/wont open randomly, 2-driver auto seat controls are a fantastic idea with horribly failed execution. Im tall and the car randomly squishes me up to my short wifes positions and I have to readjust EVERY part of seat position and mirror settings. Memory seat setting buttons forget the settings. CD player died (after 8 years). All that said, the driving experience is great, good power and road feel for a vehicle this size. Seats (esp 6-way power drivers) are very comfortable. Easily carries 2 bikes and gear to races w 4 people. Crams in 4 bikes and people with more bike dissasembly. Goes fine in snow w good tires. Great veh for long family trips or short hauls w lots of stuff. NO problems at all with the OEM sunroof. A/C and heat are both really good. Love the heated seats. At 116k miles now my mechanic says it needs a new steering rack (leaking) and power steering pump (killed by leaking steering rack.) Over $2,000 repair bill. Yikes. I dont recall the price we paid, but do remember we saved thousands over Honda and Toyota competing versions.