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 My Kia - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By ldocheng - April 8 - 10:00 am

  This is the first mini-van we have ever owned. And I love the room. You have all the luxuries without the high cost! We had test driven almost all out there, then this one. There was no question on which one we were going with. The only problem I have noticed so far is a very squeaky drivers seat and I just havent had the time to contact Kia about it. I highly recommend anyone out there looking for a mini-van to go and test drive a sedona and I lay odds you will walk out owning one!

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  A Really Great Van - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By kialover15 - April 3 - 5:36 pm

  This van was purchased in August of 2002, because my grandmother needed to get a wheelchair lift for her cart for the back of the van. They were a little unhappy that they had to buy this van though, because they were the kind of people that would only buy GM or Ford. But Kia had the best price. 6 years later, they would easily buy another Sedona. They love and so do I. This van has such a great ride, looks cool, a strong engine, and very comfortable seats. I was only 10 when they bought this and didnt know much about cars then, but I fell in love with this van so much that I started doing research on Kia, and know, all that I will ever buy is a Kia.

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  LOVE IT! - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By The Wukichs - April 2 - 7:30 am

  The Sedona is a dream come true. We priced and researched minivans and were drawn into the Kia dealership by their price and warranty. We did not expect quality too. The van has been dependable, roomy, and great on gas on road trips. Our Sedona has been loaded with adults and children alike. We always get compliments on the room and comfort for all passengers. The LWB (long wheel base) model offers that extra foot you may need on a road trip. It is nice to take a vehicle that has room for everything and the kitchen sink. I always have room for my stroller, groceries and passengers.

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  VERY SAFE! - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By zambo - March 16 - 10:00 am

  I had a 2003 (with 26,000 miles) EX that was totaled in an accident. My Sedona certainly had significant damage but compared to the other car it was unbelievable how well the Sedona held together from the impact. I was really impressed with my 2003 EX that I went out and got a 2004 EX as a replacement. I got the add model so paid (are you sitting down) 15,998 after 3500 in rebates (2500.00 plus Kia loyalty rebate 1000) and the dealer discount. After taxes and licensing it came to 17500 aprox. but still a killer price for an EX.

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  A great buy. - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Robert Bennett - March 10 - 10:53 am

  We purchased a 2003 Sedona in December 03. The warranty and good things I heard about Kia attracted us to them. We could not be happier! The interior is beautiful. It is a joy to drive. I had a warning light go on indicating an engine problem. I called the 800 number and received immediate help. They picked up the van and checked out the problem. It ended up being a malfunction with the warning light. I was back on the road within 6 hours. Other than that I have had zero problems. This is a great product at a great price point.

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  Sedona a Satisfying Drive - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Geo - February 25 - 8:36 am

  Have owned 5 Chrysler Grand Caravans, mid-level and last one loaded with options. The Kia is a big step up in most every regard. Comfort, power, and handling are very good. Active and passive safety features equal and exceed the Honda and Toyota vans. Memory seats, mirrors and pedals help keep the Mrs. from cursing my bigger frame every time she drives after I do. Power pedals keep her back from the steering wheel airbag, a major problem in the Chrysler vans. Ride is just soft enough for comfortable cruising and stiff enough to ensure good feel and cornering. Quiet and responsive until you put your foot into the throttle and hear a satisfying effort. Kia has a winner in the Sedona.

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  Sedona - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By avionics - February 18 - 2:00 am

  Very smooth riding van. You get tons of extras for a reasonable price. The gas milage could be a little better, but its worth it. Great Van.

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  mom and three girls on the go - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By megan walsh - February 8 - 10:00 am

  i feel safe more secure on the parkway, more in conthol. great side mirrors. easy to clean. car seats fit great. and its fun to drive.at the dealer the were great to help us get wahat we thought was best for us.

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  Momto2Minivan - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Jgjika - February 8 - 10:00 am

  I cant even believe that I love this minivan. I thought that I would never drive one but who knew that they had leather bucket seats, a moon roof and a great stereo too!

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  Love my Sedona - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By tballmom - February 8 - 10:00 am

  This is a very good minivan. I love it and my family loves it too. We love to travel in our new van....Very comfortable for long trips.