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:

• 

  Great Van - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Jean Kihl - November 25 - 10:00 am

  This is a great van for the money. The features on it are excellent. The comfort & realiability are awesome.

• 

  KIA, A Great Buy, A Great Van - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Lady Catherine - November 25 - 10:00 am

  We love our mini van. It has everything we wanted and the price was fantastic. There are just us two "old folks", but we both certainly enjoy driving this auto. The layout of the van is great for carrying all our grandchildren around with us, and for toting groceries and all our other purchases. And so many great features!!

• 

  I love my KIA in every way but one.... - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By liz - November 23 - 8:46 am

  I wish it were a little bit larger. We have three children so a car would not work for us. A larger suv is not very cost effective when it comes to price or fueling up and running errands. So for something that has 7 passenger seating, is economical in price, and gas cost, the Kia Sedona is perfect! I only long for a place to pack a stroller, diaper bag, groceries (enough for a family of 5), and of course the kids!

• 

  safety - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Margie - November 23 - 2:00 am

  I only had my Kia for 2-1/2 weeks before I was involved in a head on collision with another driver. My car had extensive front end damage, it and has been totalled. It kept me and 3 kids safe, in spite of the fact that we were hit head on and shoved into two mailboxes that were cemented into the ground. I truly feel that our beautiful Kia saved our lives. The car is torn up, but it sure did its job!

• 

  JCOLE22370 - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By jcole22370 - November 15 - 3:00 am

  Very roomy, easy to maneuver. Seats are very easy to take out and are on rollers if you cannot carry them. Gas mileage could be better but is ok, seats are very comfortable with plenty of leg room for everyone.

• 

  Kia Sedona Rocks - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By DwayneAB - November 11 - 10:00 am

  Excelent Ride crisp handling ! Awsome features For $$$

• 

  SOLID & ZIPPY FAMILY RIDE - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By Holly - October 27 - 8:43 pm

  I was the happy driver of a 06 Dodge Grand Caravan that was hit. I was torn on what to replace it with. Narrowed it down to an 08 Dodge Grand and the 08 Kia Sedona. Im glad we chose the Kia. It has been a good, sturdy vehicle. We have five children and do a lot of "hauling" and have been very pleased with its performance. One thing has gone wrong so far. (Pedal accelerator sensor went out - covered by warranty. No questions asked.) It has plenty of power. Decent gas milage. Comfy seats. Nice controls. Three minor complaints: 1. Front seat does not quite go back far enough. 1" more would be great. (Hubby & I are both 510") 2. Stereo sounds like it is AM 3. Shimmy when breaking.

• 

  Worth every penny - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By ML - October 14 - 3:16 pm

  My wife and I have owned a Voyager and a Caravan. From the start it was one problem after another. We made the decision to try the newly remodeled Sedona. It has been by far the best minivan we have owned. The ride is very nice and the interior is roomy and very comfortable. What you get for the price beats anything out there in my opinion.

• 

  Best bye buck for buck - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Richard Knowles - October 9 - 2:36 am

  I think Kia went the extra mile on there Sedona. Every avalable space inside has a purpose with three glove compartments and a safe, cup holders ,C D holder,etc.With the V6- 5 speed this van has plenty of power.Handles very well in the snow and has a passing gear at 60 miles per hour that you still have power to pass on the highway.The only thing Kia could do better for this van is to inprove the gas mileage.

• 

  Outstanding Van for an Outstanding Price - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By GVGiant - October 8 - 12:03 am

  I purchased the Sedona mostly because of price - it already was at the top end of what I could afford. But having at least comparison shopped the other vans, and having driven it now for a few months, you will not do better at any price. The look of the new Chrysler is downright repulsive, and you have to spend thousands of dollars extra to get the only competitive powertrain of the bunch. The Toyota is priced hopelessly high, the Nissan has given too many people trouble, and our local Honda dealers do not have good reputations. But even without all of that, there is nothing this van lacks. It gets far better mileage than my last one as well. Maybe THE best value in the industry.