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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  I Lied - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Mike n Barb - November 19 - 10:00 am

  After owning Kia Sportage & finding out the depreciation I said "I WOULD NEVER BUY ANOTHER KIA". 3 yrs old, 60K miles and worth only $3.5K to $4K on trade at 6 dealers. I found this out after falling for the SEDONA. Tax, tag, title, out the door for $14,500 & my 1999 Sportage. May have done better with more time (had to leave for daughters wedding in 1 hr). 1,800 miles since purchase 11 days ago. We Love It. Highway 75-85mph 19.75mpg and climbing. 1st tank 16.3mpg.

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  Sedona LX - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Mike Phillips - November 15 - 10:00 am

  We have only had the Sedona for 2 days. Gas mileage is crappy but the fit, finish and design extras are great. Excellent interior features like storage and lighting. Seats could be more comfortable (cloth). Drives very nicely, good power, very quiet interior. Far superior to the Caravan with respect to interior fit and finish and extras. Why cant we build them like this after 100 years? Just ask the cutomers what they want. Kia apparently did.

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  My Kia Sedona - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Winter Texan - November 10 - 10:00 am

  This summer, with three adults on board, we enjoyed a 3,500 mile trip pulling a very large, two- axle, tent trailer. The power was amazing. We could pass slower vehicles going up hill. Gas consumption for this trip was good. 17 mpg. The vehicle is very comfortable on long trips.

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  Great Van - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By SRife - November 10 - 10:00 am

  This is my first Kia and quality is on par with the Honda and Toyotas Ive owned. After 4 months of ownership and 4,000 miles there have been no defects. The interior fit and finish and quality of leather are much better than the Nissan we test drove. The engine and transmission are very smooth. Great drive. This is a great van, as good as vans priced for thousands more.

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  Great minivan - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Eric Hougland - October 27 - 10:00 am

  Preforms well, has plenty of power from either a stop or when one might pass on two lane road. It fits our family well for all our needs and the family dog. The warrenty tells me that Kia is confident in their product

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  we love it ! - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By boatingmania - October 20 - 12:53 pm

  its a pleasure to drive.rides well,the seats are confortables.feel solid and very reliable.bought it in july 2004,12000 miles and nothing wrong with it.we love it...

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  I used to love my car until today... - 2015 Kia Sedona
  By Monica - October 12 - 3:47 am

  the engine wiring harness blew up and almost blew out the entire engine...

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  Do not recommend to anyone! - 2016 Kia Sedona
  By Jmartinez - October 10 - 12:23 am

  As for the sales reps everyone was welcoming but as for the KIA name in general the vehicles suck! My husband bought a 2016 KIA Sedona not even a year old yet and it seems like Ive gone to get it services every month. First off the vehicle was full of little ants from being under a tree at the dealer and nothing was done about it then about a week after we purchased it we got some heavy rain and the water was leaking into the back tailgate, I took it in for service twice before they could figure out what was wrong with it. So now my van smells humid :-( on top of that they put a scratch on the tailgate and wanted me to take it back a third time to buff it out and eliminate the odor inside, I was already there for over 3 hours and I understand they are busy but my issue should of been a priority especially with me living 2 1/2 hours away so nothing was ever done about that. Well to continue after about a month my husband noticed that the navigation screen was pushed in from one side and popping out from the other side so I took it in for service and they said some screws were loose. Then one day my kids wanted to watch a movie on the DVD player and when they tried lifting the screen it was jammed again I took it in for service and they said some screws were loose that didnt allow it to open back up. I recently just took it in again because the traction light was coming on and the brakes would make a cracking sound and jam up, I was told the hubs needed to be replaced so they ordered parts and I have to go in once more to get them put on. Im sorry but their service sucks and I will never buy a KIA again or recommend it to anyone. They need to better prioritize their customer service and I believe I deserved a full tank of gas and complimentary detailing for missing work and driving 2 1/2 hours to and from the dealer numerous times for non sense issue that a brand new vehicle shouldnt be having! To add to my issues with Kia the lights on the interior of the van dont work either, omg idk whats next or if its even safe to drive this Sedona anymore.

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  Don,t ever buy this Van. - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By Laura - October 7 - 4:06 am

  I bought a KIA sedona Ex 2007 model in May, 2008. Lots of electrical problems. Now the whole electrical system failed. No light inside the van. Doors do not open. Air bag light is on. I cannot take this van anywhere reliably. Laura

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  Best low cost to maintain & value mini-van I ever had! - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By sushiray - October 4 - 2:42 pm

  Had a 2004 EX till recently it was totaled in a rear end collision. Gr8 ride, gr8 comfort, gr8 entertainment system, gr8 value! Front wheel drive makes all the difference, plenty of room for carting kids or Home Depot supplies. Gr8 acceleration & driving stability. Only knock is the gas mileage was not very good but I changed my driving technique & went from 16mpg to almost 20 (19.8)mpg!