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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  Better than a Sienna - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Laz - January 18 - 4:06 am

  We recently had an accident in our 2004 Toyota Sienna and got a new minivan. The Sedona was a top contender because of its excellent safety ratings, outstanding warranty and value. So far great experience, I like it better than our Sienna. It has plenty of room all around, seems very solidly built (no problems so far, the Sienna had problems right away), offers a decent driving experience (hey, its a minivan) and was a terrific value. Not only $4,000 cheaper than the Sienna but fully loaded and 0% financing. There are a few issues, some inherent in minivans, some are just minor annoyances, but overall a great family vehicle. If you are on the market for a van make sure you check it out.

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  Best Van For The Money - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By bonnie - January 4 - 2:00 am

  Its everything the research says. It lacks a few of the gadgets that the more upmarket minivans have, but it has everything you truly need. The engine is remarkably smooth, the ride very good, the build quality much nicer than expected. And you simply cannot top the warranty! I dont know why anyone would buy anything else.

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  Had my troubles - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Can not complain too - December 13 - 6:50 pm

  I bought my Kia used and immediately, (I do mean immediately) I had catalytic converter issues. Dealer fixed it. I then experienced the "check engine" light coming on when it had rained torrentially. Since this little mystery, I have had NO problems with my van. I do heartily recommend buying an extended warranty. I do not love this van but it does get me to work and hauls my dogs.

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  would buy again - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By two time kia owner - December 9 - 3:30 pm

  this is a good buy for anybody the price more than makes up for the missing features of the higher priced vehicles and you cant beat the warranty cause heaven knows if you need a minivan you cant afford emergency repairs easily.

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  1st Mini Van - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Corlisia Sims - November 30 - 10:00 am

  I bought this van on 7/27/02 as it currently has 1300 miles on it. I have not had any problems except for a little rattle coming from the drivers side dash area. Its a great van compared to other vans Ive drove and researched. The price is great. The gas miledge is poor. I guess Im use to driving my BMW which I can go 400 miles before I have to refill compared to 200 on the Sedona LX. Hopefully this Kia will hold up. Never thought I would be buying a Kia use to BMWs, Toyotas. But when I saw the KIA SEDONA I know I had to get it based on the price and the standard features!!

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  Good Value - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By CLarsen - November 23 - 2:00 am

  The car drives well. I love the leather seats. The front console that folds down is wonderful. I wish the clock was positioned on the radio. It is akward to look up. This is our 2nd mini van and the first one with the 2nd sliding door. With 2 children in car seats it is vital. Difficult to get back to the rear seats. Back seats arent the easiest to remove. I like our Quest where the back seat can be slide up against the drivers seats better. Ive been getting a strange electronic sound. At first I thought it was the speakers, but Ive noticed it with the radio off.

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  i saved 8,000 dollars of a dodge - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By jlaubin - November 7 - 5:36 pm

  my kia sedona does not burn rice and kimchi,it really burns gasoline just like the cavavan i traded in.Get up and go is excellent.smooth transmission.i like the shift on the console.it even has a full size spare,cd system is ok it needs a subwoofer..great deal for the money..this is a keeper car not a lease

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  Had better - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By richard - October 22 - 3:33 am

  The vehicle is fine for hauling kids around and on trips. It has a very nice interior - leather seats, moon roof, stereo system and more compartments to stow stuff than a chipmunks cheeks. I do not like the overall reliability of the vehicle and subsequent dealer service. I feel that for a vehicle with less than 40k miles on it we have had too many problems. Also the dealer service departments seem to be lost when fixing this vehicle sometimes.

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  Pleasantly surprised - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By VP - October 17 - 10:00 am

  My Sedona has 10,200 miles on it and it is still as smooth and quiet as brand new. I never really liked minivans, but as my kids are getting bigger, the room is needed. Im glad I purchased this vehicle because it drives well and I can haul lots of goods.I think in anothr couple of years and a few improvements, the Sedona is going to set the standard for minivans.

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  Not as impressed as others - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By b - September 7 - 12:50 am

  Leased 2007 Sedona July 2007. 1 week later needed the DVD replaced. Power sliding doors decided to work or not when they felt like it and dont always close securely, sometimes opening back up for no reason and often hearing a crunching sound also. Fuse box needed replaced, no wipers. Tire pressure system often shows all tires are low for no reason. Sunroof leaks. DVD blocks rear mirror when drivers seat is raised. Driver needs to be a contortionist to operate and remove dvds for small children while driving.