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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  Nice van, has been reliable - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Tim - June 3 - 4:56 pm

  Bought new 2/2005 and now has 49K miles. Mileage has been 16-17 city & 22- 24 hgwy. Only trip to dealer was for switch on power seat. Need front brakes/rotors at 45K. Overall, van had been comfortable, safe and reliable.

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  More for your buck - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By jgal - June 2 - 2:00 am

  I just purchased my Kia, so I am hoping it will stay as reliable and great as it seems. I researched reviews from various sources and all said Kia has become a good car and you can get more for your money. I dont think their low prices will last if these great reviews keep up. I think this van fully loaded would cost at least 10K more if it was a Toyota or Honda, etc. yet it provides the same comfort, reliability, and options.

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  Incredible Buy - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Chinchorro7500 - June 2 - 2:00 am

  Im delighted to rate this vehicle so highly. I started out just looking for a minivan with high saftey ratings for the family, but I am very pleased with the value and the extras I received with my purchase of the Kia Sedona. I really didnt expect much in terms of the interior, and it could - perhaps - be a bit more stylish, but it is so comfortable! Ive sat in all of the seats and cant believe how much more comfortable the Sedona is than my previous minivan (a Plymouth Voyager). The 10 yr powertrain, 5 year bumper-to- bumber, 5 year maintainence, and 5 year road side service cant be beat.

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  Great deal - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By HappyNewKiaOwner - June 1 - 10:00 am

  Just picked up my new Kia Sedona EX yesterday. We love it. We got ABS, Leather and Homelink for 21,500 + tax. Has many nice features. Rides well, easily power enough for minivan drivers. Unlike several other comments I read, we got 2 keyless remotes w/o even asking. Leather is sufficient, not like a Cadillac but very nice. We also got two-tone paint which makes the car look much more expensive. Not quite as roomy as some vans you can find, but for us (and for the $8,000 in savings) its fine. I would definitely recommend this vehicle. Hopefully we wont have to use the great warranty.

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  Please stay away! I beg you - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By monkey - May 29 - 1:13 pm

  This has to have been the worst vehicle i have bought. Purchased 4/2/2010 with 52,000 miles. 40 days later Im walking to work because engine blew and dealer wont fix it they blame me for changing the spark plugs. Before that in 3 weeks time it was in the shop 4 times first hub bearing went bad, then ac went out, then the van would just stall for no reason. They find nothing wrong. For people having this problem clean out the mass air flow sensor i found that out myself. Then a week later at 53,000 miles engine started knocking and smoking towed to the dealer and was told need new engine. Just the name KIA has lemon written all over it.Avoid the stress and steer clear. Very bad gas mileage.

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  The best for the money - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By dave z - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I did extensive research and for the money found the kia sedona to be an exceptional value. Ours came with a sun roof, flat screen t.v. and dvd and a myriad of storage spaces, rear a/c and heat and of course the best warranty on the market. Comparable cars such as the freestar, sienna and oddysey were thousands and thousands higher. I was a big fan of the toyota sienna but two additional years of bumper to bumper coverage and 3 additional years of powertrain sold me. So far I have been quite pleased. I will keep my fingers crossed.

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  Most Bang for your Buck! - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By KevinCox - May 23 - 10:00 am

  Great all around van...great warranty, great performance, great safety features and a great price. Gas mileage could improve but that is my ONLY complaint about this van! Would reccomend to anyone who wants to save some serious cash in lieu of unecessary luxuries. This van has plenty of bells and whistles...just dont expect a top of the line Sienna for 21K.

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  Better than the Odyssey - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Ed - May 18 - 10:10 pm

  After comparing the new Sedonna, to the Odyssey and Sienna, I realized the Kia hit a home run. You get all the feature content of the Odyssey Touring with the price less than the Odyssey EX-L. The vehicle ride is softer than the Honda, and actually handles better. The engine noise is less too, except under hard acceleration, but the beefy V6 produces a pleasing sound, so the wife and I both like it. It doesnt break any new ground with its features, but it does mimic the best features of all the market leaders, at a very fair price.

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  Surprising car - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By Rich - April 28 - 6:03 pm

  This is a fun car to drive. At todays gas prices, I am glad to report that the car actually gets the advertised mileage. They stated it would get 18 mpg (city) and 25 mpg (highway). While mileage depends on driving habits, I get at least 18 mpg city, and up to 28 mpg highway. The 28 mpg was reached while driving on an interstate doing 85 mph (dont tell the police.)

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  Warranty alone overcomes short-falls - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Dave - April 26 - 7:36 am

  Weve only owned our 05 Sedona for 4 months. 9000 miles on it now. I was surprised at the "normal" noisiness of the van. A/C compressor is extra noisy when it turns on. A clunking noise comes from the front end at any small bump in the road. Sounds like tie rod end bushings, but dealer mechanic says, "drive any 05 Sedona and youll hear the same thing." Same said about the A/C compressor. The seats are not particularly comfortable, but have a nice covering. I just had the rotors replaced from warping (8000 miles). My dealer said, "rotors not covered under warranty," a dealer in Illinois disagreed and changed them while I was on vacation.