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 evaluation - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By ron thibodeau - January 17 - 10:53 pm

  I find the Kia Sedona a good riding car with a good comfortable interior. One negative is that the gas mileage is poor - maybe 17 mpg local, 21 mpg on trips

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  I have 2 Kias and LOVE them - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By mom_of_two - January 12 - 4:56 am

  We first purchased a 2006 Kia Optima LX (brand new and still own) when we had our first child. Then we purchased our 2006 Kia Sedona LX (used - 5yrs old) when we had our second child. I love both of my Kias. Sure I have had some issues, like the Air Bag light and Check Engine light - but no car is perfect. Even if you own a BMW or MB, there are still issues! I will forever drive a KIA : )

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  Great minivan for the price! - 2011 Kia Sedona
  By scoop14 - January 7 - 4:09 am

  My 2011 Sedona was $6000 less out the door than Sienna and has a better warranty. Our local Kia dealership is also a well respected family business. Sienna drove slightly better but certainly not $6000 worth! Truth is with two kids & a dog to haul around it needs to be comfortable, solid & safe - it is. The Sedonas 3.5 V6 is powerful, willing, and sounds really good winding out. The auto shifts cleanly and manual mode works well in the hills. The 18/25 mileage figures are accurate. I meet or exceed these numbers when driven calmly. 5600 miles so far and one problem (sticky purge valve = rough idle) fixed without problem under warranty with loaner provided. Happy so far with my first Kia.

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  Poor Gas Mileage - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Kari - December 5 - 9:13 pm

  Overall, we love the Sedona. But, with continuous increase in gas prices, we could not afford to drive it. I was lucky to get 16(city)mpg in the winter. In the summer, it was even less.

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  This Van is Very Underrated!! - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Happy Customer!! - November 30 - 1:03 pm

  I have only had this van a short time,former van was a Dodge Caravan Sport. When the dealer first showed me the Sedona, my initial impression as I walked towards it was that it was sharp for a mini-van(Midnight Black with dark tinted windows!) as I got closer to it and saw it was Kia I wasnt so sure I wanted it, it was a Kia for goodness sakes. But then, I got in the vehicle, with its tan, clean and crisp interior, decided to test drive it, and fell in love right away! Its three years old but smooth, and still looks really good, it looks like an 08 or 09. Its also fast and corners very well. The CD and radio are outstanding in sound quality.

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  Great minivan - Bad on fuel comsumption - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Mario - November 20 - 10:36 pm

  I recently purchased a 2005 Kia Sedona LX and it really is a nice minivan. The vans exterior is nice to look at; pleasant on the eyes. The interior is made up of good materials and is quite comfortable. My kids love the roominess of the interior, all the cup holders, lights, rear controls for heat and air. However, in light of gas prices rising to $3.00 a gallon (a small exaggeration for now), I am really concerned about the "below average" fuel mileage the Sedona is known for. This is my only gripe about this minivan, otherwise, I think it was a good purchase for my family and me.

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  cheap - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By christine - November 19 - 10:00 am

  After 980 mile no problem. But the sunglass holder could not open on top. Need abs brakes in this van because I try both van with and without abs brakes. Speaker not loud enough in the front of van on the LX. Parts for this van might be hard to find.

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  so far so good! - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By natalio hanna - October 27 - 10:00 am

  great mini van. for sure better than any american built. dont compare with hondas or nissans. but they dont have nearly as good a warrenty

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  Wish it were better - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By ROYMAN - October 13 - 2:00 am

  I have a 02 Sedona EX, purchased 7/28/02 . I like many qualities about the vehicle but feel,that Kias quality control is non-existent. I have spent nearly as many days in the shop as in the driveway. Lumbar seat switch stuck on and depleted the battery, requiring using roadside assistance. Then power steering pump, A/C partial replacement, replacement of entire left rear trim panel, transmission irregularity and lastly, rust on the tailgate requiring repainting and 3 day tie up.(I live in Florida).Not a good experience at all. The mileage is horrific (which I knew when I bought it). Should have at least 16" wheels,

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  so far, so good - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By mamabear - September 12 - 10:00 am

  We bought our Kia Sedona EX in July 2002 and have put about 1000 miles on it, both city and highway driving Massachusetts. It has leather interior, ABS, sunroof, homelink and two tone paint. We were amused by the professional reviews saying that the van had sluggish acceleration. We dont know what the reviewers were comparing it to, but compared to our old mini-van this car has plenty of pick up and go. We baby-sit our grandkids and have two carseats to contend with when we pick them up. The dual sliding doors are convenient especially for loading and unloading the toddlers. Were still learning about the vans features but we are pleased so far.