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:

• 

  Kia vs. The rest - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Kurt Ditzel - October 4 - 10:00 am

  We have owned this vehichle for one week and it has all the comforts a family ofmfour really needs. Cant wait to take lots of trips in it. Way to go Kia!

• 

  Nice Smooth Van Lacks some comfort - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By Prsnlty - September 25 - 10:53 pm

  Ive only owned this van 1 month. Great van overall but has a few problems. Rear hatch door leaks during heavy rain. Rattle in rear and windows rattle. Stereo should be better for standard issue. Had a Mazda MPV - trans went so I bought this van. Love its handling. But slow from go, super fast and smooth passing. Crappy gas mileage compared to my Mazda of more weight. Hate the drivers seat adjustments. Im short and you cant lower the front of the seat so on long rides my legs fall asleep. The wheel rims make the van look cheap even though its a beautiful looking car. Hazard button is right under stereo controls, they turn on often! Love the safety features! Buying EX model next time.

• 

  Love my Sedona EX! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Rebs mom - September 8 - 10:00 am

  Ive only had my 2003 Sedona EX for a week but so far I love it! (I traded in my 96 Windstar) We couldnt beat the price/options/warranty on the Kia. It rides and drives very smoothly. I didnt know how many new features theyve come out with since a 96 that Id been driving! I dont mind sharing, for those who are still comparison shopping, that our total price incl. tax/title/tags etc was $20,300. (incl. $3000 total rebates) I have a sunroof and ABS, but no leather. So far, the gas mileage has been fine for me (I live in a semi-rural area without heavy traffic)

• 

  Our first minivan - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Military in Minot - September 6 - 10:23 pm

  I bought this van for my wife after extensive online research. The determining factors for buying this model were quality, safety and price. I looked at all vans from the "lowly" KIA to the "mighty" Toyota. What I discovered in those other brands was, in order to protect your family you were forced to buy the upgraded models with cameras and fancy seats. I want quality and safety to surround my family. KIA offers the same level of safety in ALL their van trims!! All comments I have received are of absolute appreciation for the build and material quality inside and out. KIA may be a Korean company, but they built exactly what we needed. My next vehicle will be a KIA/HYUNDAI.

• 

  Good van - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By busmunoz - September 5 - 10:58 am

  Bought the van used in 2009, and other than the required maintenance I never had to fix a thing. I love this van. I put about 75,000 miles on it and it is more reliable than any new car I ever bought.

• 

  Kia 2004 - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By fred2boo - September 4 - 3:20 pm

  had a hard time actually buying a minivan, but works well for my family.

• 

  Whoah! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By bperk - September 2 - 2:00 am

  This van is an amazing value for the money. The quality and reliability are great, and the 3.5 L engine gives far more pickup than anything in its class. Way to go Kia!

• 

  second time around - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By Allison Jones - August 29 - 12:40 pm

  This is my 2nd Sedona. I had a 2004 model and traded it due to high miles for a new cross-over. Big mistake! After the first week I wanted my Sedona back. I just bought my second Sedona Ex a 2008 model. I already love it! My kids love it. It has an even better look and the inside is even more comfortable. I love all the storage space it offers .I feel confident I will be driving it for many years to come. It keeps getting better and better.

• 

  2004 - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By mike - August 23 - 3:13 pm

  Ive owned a 2004 Kia Sedona for one year and I only have one complaint. The rear seats dont fold into the floor, which is inconvenient when you need to haul things other then kids. It drives great. The transmission and engine are flawless. The interior is sharp looking and comfortable for long trips. The exterior is good looking as well. The best thing about this van is that I bought the top of the line model for $19,000 with tax out the door. I had a Dodge before and the Kia is so much better built. Also I tow 3 ATVs on a trailer and it tows them without a problem.Consider this model because price vs value is fantastic, as long as you can live without folding in floor seats.

• 

  retired navy did the buy 1 get 1 free - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By robert savage - August 21 - 10:00 am

  TEST DROVE EVERY VAN UNDER 25,000 NEW I COULD FIND, NOTHING BEAT THE KIA!!!