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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  A Home Run! - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Robert B - May 1 - 2:13 am

  After seeing Kias serious entry into the luxury minivan market, the also excellent Honda and Toyota models are starting to look old. The Kia is big, comfortable, tight, powerful and fast with FWD and traction control. From the 3 power doors to the amazing 13 speaker Infinity DVD system with 7.1 surround sound, this car really provides a great amount of comfort in a utility oriented design. Were getting close to 24 MPG on the highway and its not broken in yet. 2 year old baby loves the ride. Safety ratings top the list. Driving this in heavy rain, this car feels just as secure as my Subaru Tribeca. Kia looked at the market and cherry picked the best from all others to make a great van!

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  works for me - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By steve - April 13 - 11:10 am

  i use the Sedona for work, loaded with tools and parts. It has performed very well. city/hwy combined mileage is always above 20mpg. It can be fun to drive for a minivan and acceleration is exceptional for a vehicle this size. I have had a couple problems, turn signal stopped working; but seems to have fixed itself. my biggest problem has been finding a competent dealer and the prices they charge are comparable to infinity(for 60k service) I purchased the van because my wife has a 2003 optima which has been problem free. And the KIA was the last car I wanted her to buy. oh yes, plan to keep it as resale is nonexistent.

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  Works For Me - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By MegaSarge - April 6 - 7:00 pm

  Very nice highway and city driver. Just turned 70K, no major problems, but Ill need the major service, timing belt, etc and they hook you for that (who doesnt?). Hankook tires were replaced at 45K and I had it aligned and tires balanced. Luggage rack is actually useful. Easy entrance and exit, solid doors, solid, quiet car.

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  From Behemoth to Best - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By one "l" - April 4 - 7:46 pm

  I drove a Chevy conversion van and wanted to downsize so searched via internet. Unfortunately, my perfect minivan didnt mesh with my pocketbook. Put off decision until last July I drove by a Kia dealer and saw the Sedona, checked it out and fell in love. It had everything I wanted at an affordable price. We bought it the next day without knowing much about it, but at least I knew what I was comparing it to. After putting 10,000 miles on it to date, I still love it.

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  Good Van - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Tanker 1 - March 25 - 2:00 am

  Have 15K on it. Milege improved after 10K. Wife loves it. Plenty of Zip and smooth tranny. We like the tray between seats. Very well designed

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  wow i cant believe this is a Kia - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By mau-mau - March 3 - 10:40 pm

  It feels like a car when driving in the freeway. Not as many blind spots like the Odyssey and Sienna. it drove like the Honda but doesnt carry the Honda price!

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  Great buy - 2012 Kia Sedona
  By dcbrown - February 20 - 9:04 am

  As a 71 year old I never thought that I would own a mini-van. But three grandchildren under 4 and a 96 year old mother-in-law changed all that. So I went shopping in late 11 dead set on getting an Oddysey. Reality set in quickly as price and an unwillingness of four Honda dealerships to deal eliminated that choice. And lucky that was for I had a blast shopping around - something I had not needed to do for my previous five cars. My final choice was an easy one spurred by a great deal, friendly dealership, and fully loaded Kia Sedona at about 12k less than the desired Oddysey. It is now ten months and almost 20k miles into the vehicle and I love it.

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  The price is right - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By jpm - February 15 - 8:26 pm

  After comparing this to Honda, Toyota and Dodge, the Kia Sedona was a no-brainer. I find the styling of the Kia more attractive and SUV-like. The performance is outstanding for a minivan. The warranty was a big factor in our purchase decision, but I believe the build quality is close to if not equal to Toyota and Honda. What sealed the deal though is that by far and away the Kia gives you the most for your money.

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  Nice Price...Less Problems - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Three Boys One Van - February 10 - 2:00 am

  We traded our Gr. Caravan for the EX. I enjoy the 5 speed transmission! It is a relief not to hear the whine of our old Caravans 3.3L, 4-speed going up and down the appalachian mountains around here. Kia has a real winner. Ive owned GM and Dodge and neither cruise control would maintain consistent speeds up and down these hills. The Sedona powers up and down without a hitch. My wife loves the loaded interior and our boys love all the neat compartments. No real complaints so far.

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  WOW - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Scotty409 - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Friend suggested looking at Kias. The wife and I went out on a Saturday to test drive only. We were so impressed, we bought. It was my first time to buy a new vehicle. I am very skeptical and was totally against buying a "new" vehicle (to much to pay). But I could not believe the bang for the buck with the Sedona. I was impressed with the feel of the drive, very solid yet comfortable. Dealer said Kia is trying to get into the market. Well - Im sold.