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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  My Sedona - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By k mallard - January 6 - 10:00 am

  A lot of "bang for your buck". I test drove the Windstar, Montana, Venture and the Caravan. None were as attractive as the Sedona in looks or in price. I purchased the EX Luxury model. (with leather an sunroof). Most standard features on the Sedona were optional on all other vehicles, which, of course drove the cost out of reach. A very smooth ride and with the ABS feature and front wheel drive, made for some easy handling in snow and ice conditions.

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  It IS possible to like a van - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By little BIG - December 31 - 10:00 am

  We purchased in May 02. Got a steal on our trade-in and we ended up paying 24k (CANADIAN). Have had no problems as of yet, we are at the 15000 km mark already. It drives so well, my biggest regret is that it doesnt come with a standard tranny. Lots of room, although the trunk space could be made bigger. PLENTY of power. The gas mileage has improved dramatically since we started driving it. If you are in the minivan market, you have to consider this one, especially for the price. We test drove the car on a whim (we were going to settle with the MPV) and were convinced within the first 5 minutes of driving that we were going to buy the vehicle.

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  Great buy for the money - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By new kia fan! - December 31 - 10:00 am

  Only had it for about 2 1/2 weeks, but like it so far. Have a couple of problems still trying to get resolved with dealer. One being the keyless remote works sporadically and you have to be right on top of the van for it to work. Anyone else experience this? Please email me if so. Got this van for 22,500 fully loaded! I mean fully loaded, not another option was available.

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  service is as important - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By Alani(BrightHeaven) - December 19 - 8:13 pm

  I made a cost effective purchased Nov. 2008. And until Jan. 2010 driving Sedona LX with get up and go on freeways and hills were more than expected. Jan. 2010 Alternator stop working but with excellant warranty and service I was back in my Sedona in a week. My sisters new car (other brand) had problems within a month. Shortly after purchasing my Sedona I was viewing it from a restaurant window against other vehicles and noticed how really impressive looking (color=white) it really is.

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  Sedonas a good ride - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Andy - December 11 - 8:03 am

  Ran great for 40,000 miles, then had engine hesitation. Needed extensive parts replaced but all covered under plan. Running smooth again.

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  Shes My Work Horse - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By yankeegirl89 - December 7 - 10:03 am

  This Van Currently has 123,000+ miles on it and counting, weve used it to haul all my kids to their games and meets, move their stuff to their college dorms and apartments. We have moved furniture, appliances, taken trips, been all over in it, shes been old reliable. Havent had any problems with this van, I would buy another one were it not for the fact that in another year I wont need to be moving anymore kids and I can downsize again finally.

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  I will never buy another Kia! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By jmc7982 - December 3 - 5:13 am

  I have 3 children and buying a minivan seemed like the right idea. If i had only known that buying a Kia would put me in debt i would have never ever done it! Everything on the car is pretty much plastic. I have broke several door handles that are far from cheep to replace. Everything in the van squeeks. I have had to replace the compressor and the shocks in the back that lift the back door! I have sank way too much money in this vehicle to enjoy it.

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  Great value - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Rebekah - December 2 - 2:00 am

  I love my new van! I can not believe all of the features I got for the price! Leather, power everything, and a sun roof....who said a mini-van is not cool! The only thing that really stinks is the gas milage. I had a Chrysler Town & Country before and I could drive forever, I get pittiful milage on this. But over all, two thumbs up!

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  LOVE MY KIA - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Tori - November 26 - 10:26 pm

  We love this minivan! Weve owned it for nearly a year, and it is so pretty, so reliable, so perfect! We havent had a single problem, and it drives like a dream. I am so pleased we were able to afford all the extra features we wanted, like a sun roof and leather, without breaking the bank. HIGHLY RECOMMEND this vehicle!

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  We love Sedona - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By Ricardo Duque - November 23 - 5:46 pm

  We test drove an Odyssey, Sienna and the Sedona, and the Sedona is equal or better than the other 2. We were very disappointed with the Sienna fit and finish. The Sedona is a excellent van, with very good power, comfort, road manners and price (the Sedona is not cheap as it used to be but this model is far superior than the older design). My gas mileage in the city is around 16 and 26 in the highway, I am pleased with the fuel economy, I know it will improve when the engine breaks in. We really enjoy driving this car, my children love the comfort and the DVD.