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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  Love it - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Perry White - October 2 - 3:33 am

  I love this van. They the reviewers keep commenting on the weight. As far as power for the weight I have no problem she gets to the interstate speeds real quick. I think when Kia is around for a while and skeptics like me buy them then watch out all the optioned out overpriced competition.The way I see it the competition is going to do all they can to make Kia look bad. If you stay out of the pedal you can stretch the so so gas milage. Nice ride,nice handling and more power than I am going to need. Oh I forgot the interior is not gaudy and just enough for the average non show-off. Traded in a Spectra 2002 60000 on it loved it also.Kia will bring the resale value with time. Good job.

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  great van!! - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By kimpap - October 2 - 2:00 am

  Ive had little problems with my van at all - and Ive put it through some serious testing. Ive had great service at the service dept. and they have done way more than I ever expected. I have friends that have more problems with their Toyota Camry and GMC truck than I have with my Kia. Its our first new car and we couldnt be happier!

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  Go KIA! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Martha M - October 2 - 2:00 am

  I am so glad I did research before hand and bought the KIA. If I spent the same amount on a caravan, I never would have gotten all the features I wanted and needed. Best buy for my money and my budget.

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  kia sedona - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By sandi cyrus - September 27 - 2:00 am

  I love this van

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  give it a little time - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By new car buyer 2003 - September 27 - 2:00 am

  we found the kia to be very nice compared to some we test drove. also the dealer has jumped to our every request with no hassle. the only design flaw is a small noise comming from engine area. i even test drove twoo others and the same noise was there. other than that the van is great. i would buy an

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  Im Thrilled with my Sedona - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By mcnick - September 20 - 10:00 am

  The most affordable minivan with the most comfort features for the price and its a great riding vehicle as well. Many people have commented that it looks more like an SUV than a minvan. Its perfect for those family trips. We have one child and can fit all of his things and ours well. ONe of the only two minivans that has a power moonroof available as an option... That was a must for me.

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  meets expectations - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By usaved1 - September 2 - 10:00 am

  Overall we have been pleased with our Sedona EX. We have had one failure in our first year. A sensor for the spark contol. We have driven it from Virginia to Toronto and Montreal Canada with only good things on the trip. However two pet peeves are the loud noise from the colling fan and the knocking from the front right whell linkage. Waiting for factory fixes.

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  A Very Stylish Impressive Vehicle! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Ken10 - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Looks Like the Korean Automaker has come along way from little compacts to a Awesome Mini Van. Mine Drives like a Cadilac! The ride is great very smooth, love this van highly recommended from a very tough critic!

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  Sadona is the best value period! - 2016 Kia Sedona
  By John Girard - August 23 - 11:58 am

  It will be loaded with extras that you have to pay more for in other manufacturers vehicles. Whatever version you get it will give you value and reliability, this is just the most practical van you could hope for I am also blown away by the 22 mpg I am getting with a van.

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  kia - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Ashley Woody - August 10 - 10:00 am

  The van is a great vehicle. I have had zero problems and this year we put 33,000 miles on it. We live out in the country so the gas mileage hurts a little, but over all it is a great vehicle for the price. I would buy it again. NO regrets