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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  Great Mini Van - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By RSK - April 27 - 2:00 am

  We were thinking of buying a new van and on the first day out we drove the Kia and signed the papers that evening. I had already gone out on the web and investicated the different vans and prices. The ride and comfort of the Sedona was great and made our decision for us. It was also nice that it had a five star crash rating. Also the factory warranty of 10 years or 100,000 miles was a great incentive.

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  3 months and 6400 miles - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By firemanVA - April 22 - 5:00 pm

  Cant say enough good about it. Bought in FL on trip. Dont like to buy cars away from home. Dealers tend to give better service if bought from them. Will see if KIA like that tomorrow. Have a "stress crack" in windshield. No, not a rock hitting it. Will see if the dealer tries to say road harzard for my insurance company to handle.

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  whats not to like - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By akw - April 22 - 2:00 am

  We have just over 1800 miles on our EX and it has never been in the shop. Regular oil changes and by-hand washes is all it has needed. The low end torque is great. The weight, which hurts the gas mileage sure helps it hold the road well. This is one solid, inexpensive hauler. And, those who get a ride in it praise the leather and other conveniences.

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  The Warranty - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By SAd - April 15 - 5:23 am

  The warranty on the car is not worth it wait in gold. I have had the car for 4years have replaced the tires 9 times the brakes 5 times and now the car is in the shop and has to have a new engine. This is not covered by the warranty even though I only have 70,000 miles on it. They say it is my fault for not having the oil change like I should I have proof that I do have it changed like I should and they say it is still my fault. The answer is either fix it which will cost me 3,500 for a used engine with a 6 month warranty or I could trade it in on a new one. I think this is very sad that my husband 20 year cars engine still runs great and a 4 year old engine needs to be replaced.

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  Great Van Great Price - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By W Whicker - April 11 - 10:00 am

  Bought LX 3 only days ago and we love it. Great price (around 18k with rebate) on a van with the best warranty and high safety rating. What else can I say! The LX is the lower trim level but still has all the major goodies we could need. Easy to put baby in (no crouching like in a car), very nice layout, good ride, feels solid, comfortable, excellent AC, good power from the V6, and good looking, too. Cant beat it for the price/warranty. Talk about peace of mind. Highly recommended.

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  Kia rules - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By dman94 - April 11 - 10:00 am

  Price and features is great not to mention the warranty. I had a 02 and traded for an 03 we liked it so much and Kia had great incentive to do so

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  Minivan vs Suburban - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By Mrs. M - April 7 - 3:00 am

  Weve always had SUVs since we started our family. But decided to downsize from our 07 Suburban to this minivan. I was kinda sad b/c the Suburban looked "cooler" but WOW! I love this car and so does my husband. We have 4 small children and the Sedona is hands down the most convenient and comfortable auto weve had. I love almost everything about it. Almost. There are only a couple things to bring up. The interior cloth is cheap looking. Wish we got the leather. And although it seats 7,if you have to seat 5 kids I wouldnt recommend this car for you. The back bench seat is narrow so 3 kids in the back is tight. And the poor kid who has the middle gets an uncomfortable seatbelt

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  Live and learn - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By David Shelton - April 6 - 4:53 am

  Due to the great warranty and price with options we decided to take a chance on a Kia vehicle even though we knew about the not so good re-sale value. The vehicle has 60000 miles on it. The vehicle performed fine until about 45000 miles. After 6 visits to the dealership the air conditioner was finally fixed. At about 58000 miles the power lift gate stopped working and was fixed. I have replaced two fog lights and one head light bulb and now the tv has quit working. Everything was under warranty except the bulbs and tv. After contacting Kia about the tv, which would cost $1100 to replace, I was told I was out of luck. The bulbs lift gate and tv all went out within two weeks.

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  Good, But Could Be Improved - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Megasarge - March 30 - 2:00 am

  Called Kia Roadside Assistance 3 times for dead battery, finally the dealer replaced the lumbar switch. Battery would go dead if vehicle sat more than 5 days; I dont know if the problem is fixed yet. Windshield cracked and was replaced promptly. No hassels with roadside assistance and dealer warrranty work. Rear glove box door keeps popping open. Took cross-country trip Dec 2003, MPG averaged O/A 21 MPG @ 62 MPH average; ride was comfortable, handeled well. Rear seats are hard to get into. Interior componets seem durable. Since corporate America is sending jobs overseas, this retired 20- year Army veteran tries to avoid purchasing from American companies.

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  Get what you pay for - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By hatemycar - March 25 - 10:00 am

  I bought this vehicle for the same reason everyone else does, the price is great. BUT, BUYER BEWARE!!! The car will work fine, but it will rattle, and other little things will come up. If you can find a service center that is close you MAY get the problem resolved. There is a reason the others cost more money, theyre built better. My keyless entry works when it feels like it, the back seat rattle constantly and the noise level is high to beging with. Will never buy a KIA again!