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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  total ten - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By e.c.magruder - December 27 - 2:00 am

  it has every thing that a family would want.a good paint job nicely deorated intirior,great radio system plenty of seats,lots of cup holders it looks as any other mini van on the road.we like it...

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  Bought new in 02 and now have 96k miles - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By tomerikac - December 26 - 10:14 pm

  Needed a mini-van with 2nd baby on the way so traded in my old "00 Sportage, found a great deal, and after 8 years only problems were the alternator (replaced under warranty) and air conditioner, repaired for about $400. Unfortunately, we have continually had problems with the air bag light. One Kia mechanic even told me "Dont worry about the light, it works fine!" Overall theough, we are pleased. Average about 20mpg highway/city driving. Lately Ive noticed a "rough" shift between 3 and 4 gear and am thinking Id better get it in before the warranty expires.

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  WOW!!! - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By yolo - December 23 - 5:10 am

  A truly amazing van! No initial problems and I am very impressed with the fit and finish, great ride, power, 5 spd. auto tranny, comfort, braking and handling. I dont understand the 15/20 mpg. I have been getting 23-25 mpg in city and highway mix and the engine is not even broken in yet. This was a wonderful surprise!

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  poor engine quality - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By bepeace - December 21 - 2:00 am

  we didnt expect it to perform like a Honda, but we were hoping for atleast Winstar quality...we got yugo! To date, we have replaced: a #2 engine cylinder 2 (TWO) catalytic converters the drivers seat belt/airbag system an oxygen sensor the drivers cup holder (TWICE) (which is insult to injury b/c they brag about their cup holders) and the factory stereo each fix requires 2 trips to the dealer...with a long wait in between for the part to arrive This vehicle has only 33,000 miles on it DO NOT PURCHASE this vehicle (check milage of vehicles people gave high ratings...everything fell apart at 20,000 miles)

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  More bang for a buck - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Al L - December 15 - 10:00 am

  The car run fine, I like it so far. I got a basic LX w/o ABS, roof rack and CD but for less than $16K, I cant even get a 4 cyl camry. Quality is pretty good, the only thing I would like to complain is the space behind 3rd seat is too small, otherwise it is great. The only problem so far is my first 600 miles of the car, about 360 miles is to and from dealer, not the cars problem, but the dealers problem, first, they cant install alarm cos it was too late, 2nd, they install a cheaper alarm, 3rd finally they installed the right alarm but have to leave the car their for whole day but I got a loaner. BTW, I am about 60mi one way to go there.

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  great van - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By stockey - December 15 - 10:00 am

  The best mini van at any price,and i have tried them all,i reaaly love it.

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  Still in love!! - 2015 Kia Sedona
  By BrightSilver - December 14 - 4:27 pm

  After testing other mini vans I decided to go with the Sedona. The interior of the Toyota Sienna look too bland for my taste. Honda Odyssey too ugly for me. Test drove Chrysler Town and Country and it felt like it was going to break down. Nissan Quest poor crash ratings so I did not bother. After two years of driving Sedona I had two issues. One was side power sliding door it would not completely close until 2-3 times using remote. Dealer greased power latch and it was corrected. Second transmission shifts harsh one time 1-2 gear when cold then it drives very smooth. Took in for inspection they found nothing and just reset trans cpu. Still have this issue. Electronics are easy to use including gps. With several kids interior is still looks new. Seats are comfortable on long trips. Leather is very nice. After a couple of road trips I still dont have any rock chips so the paint is excellent. Performance is great easy to drive 80-85mph with no effort. I have done 29.5mpg hwy in the city about 16-18mpg. I highly recommend the Kia Sedona. After owning several mini vans this one is my favorite.

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  Worth Every Penny - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Rustycg - December 2 - 2:00 am

  We have had the Van for almost a year now and have yet to have a single problem. After almost 10k miles it still makes us smile. It has alot of power for a van and alot of exelent features. Maby we are lucky but on our trips and just around town we have had above average fuel consumption. Averaging around 24mpg on the highway and about 19pmg in the city. So I will not say fuel consumption is a problem for me. GET ONE!! Youll be glad you did!! Good job Kia, and since the Sorento has the same engine we may just buy one of them here soon.

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  so far, so good - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By new_he - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I bought mine with the leather, moonroof, homelink and ABS options for 22,400. I probably could have got it for less if I had started the negotiating at a lower price, because the salesman sold it to me almost right away. The NBC Dateline report on the Insurance Institutes crash test results are a little troubling, but I believe those are only used to test the cost of the damage to the car, and do not conflict with the governments 5-star crash ratings. But I am worried that the report will result in increased insurance costs. Friends and neighbors who have looked at it have all been impressed. I would recommend it to anyone looking to buy a van

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  Awesome - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By MelanieGG - November 4 - 10:00 am

  Has all the features of LUXURY autos. I miss the idea of flat seats in the back if I needed them but when would I actually use them when I have 3 kids? So it doesnt really count anyways. The gas mileage is bad but everything else makes up for that!