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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  Like it - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Nice Vehicle - January 4 - 10:23 pm

  Excellent overall value. My wife loves the vehicle. Could use more braking power considering its weight. Lacks get-up-and-go. Fuel efficiency is poor. Handles very well and conveniently converts from passenger vehicle to hauler with minimal strain.

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  Nice Vehicle - 2010 Kia Sedona
  By Patrick - December 27 - 11:20 am

  I previously owned a 2004 Chrysler T&C that repeatedly required maintenance from the day I bought it, so I was at wits end and decided to trade it in for a Kia Sedona. I purchased a 2010 Sedona EX with Luxury and entertainment packages. I have owned my Sedona for a month now and it is a really really nice vehicle especially compared to my T&C. Its very comfortable, the ride is extremely smooth and the amenities are terrific. Would definitely purchase this vehicle given a second opportunity.

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  Beats GM! - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Pablo Beanski - December 8 - 10:00 am

  Beware of cracking windshields - no one mentioned this yet. Its under warranty but a bit of a pain. Great features except for the single power door lock button and remote. Beats the crap out of the Venture I just returned. The automatic intermittent wipers are interesting. Cant believe there is an ashtray, and that there is no clock on the radio (its up on the computer). Miss the navigational feature on the GM onboard computers. Still get funny looks from all my friends - time will tell if we were smart, so far so good.

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  Still going strong at 120,000 miles. - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By frugal_driver - December 4 - 8:18 pm

  I have previously posted here as FRUGAL DRIVER (see below). This van, bought in 07 with 64K, is still going strong as a half ton hauler and work van. Today its going 750 miles (and back in three days) in my wifes hands to take KID MARK I to university for the first time. Had a/c fixed--damage inflicted on a hose by an idiot. Now that the OBAMA CAFE rules have effectively removed small pickups (Chev 10, Ford Ranger) & the old vans (ASTRO etc) from the US market, what are you doing to drive? This van will haul a half ton well. It takes abuse if you maintain it well. Drive it gently. This vehicle was originally built as a light truck for the S. Korean Army (02-06 model). Its tuff.

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  Trading in my Sedona for a Sienna - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Heather3696 - November 22 - 10:00 am

  If it wasnt for those rear seats and the noisy air conditioning, I would keep this car. I cant stand fighting with those rear seats. They are super heavy (if no impossible) to remove and replace. I actually took it back to the dealer and made them put the seats back in. Even the sales guy couldnt do it. The air conditioning is super loud when the car is idling. Step on the gas just a little and the noise goes away. Come to a red light and the noise is louder than the radio. My next minivan will have fold away seats. Im looking at the Odyssey or the Sienna.And the gas mileage is terrible. Maybe 15 city, 19 hwy.

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  Ok for new van - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By W.L.HORN - November 19 - 2:26 pm

  I traded a 1990 Dodge gran caravan for the red 2004 lx Kia Sedona. Found it roomy for its smaller size. Plenty of storage compartments and the am/FM/cd player was great extra power outlets helpful for charging cell phones etc found the 3.5 6 cyl to be fast and the overdrive trans well suited the vans performance, but fuel mpg was rate 16 Im lucky to get 13 city 16 hwy Cruise control works well saves fuel on long trips. In four years of ownership have had to replace the fuel pump. Front brakes. Alternator, battery, front heater fan, all covered by the warranty except the brakes. Dealer maintenance is high over length of warranty 10 yrs 100,000 miles, paint has held up well except around the door handles

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  Excellent Value - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By KIA ROCKS - November 3 - 10:00 am

  Although this is a recent purchase, I can compare it to the Dodge Caravan and by far a much better van for the money. Great pick up, interior design, and size. Although the length is shorter than our previous dodge Grand Caravan there is still enough space for luggage and anything else you want to bring along. Kia has come a long way and this van has proven that you can have quality at a great price!

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  no regrets - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By eyez - October 25 - 2:00 am

  I HAVE A VOYAGER, I LIKE THE SEDONA ALOT BETTER

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  Better Than Decent Van - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By bracing - October 3 - 2:00 am

  Quite pleased, especially for the price. Looks nice, rides well, feels safe. Fit and finish better than imagined it would be.

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  value plus - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By al weir - September 25 - 5:13 pm

  As my wife is handicapped and she was having difficulty in entering our 2003 Dodge Sport Van, I visited every different dealership in our area and measured every minivan for seat height etc. We then proceeded to try those vans with the lowest threshold etc. and the Kia won hands down as my wife slid in with no problems. We purchased the vehicle after a test drive and we both find it very comfortable and easy to drive. This is a top of the line unit, solid, and relatively quiet even with the sun roof in the open position. Much quieter than the Dodge Caravan. Gas mileage has been great. 25mpg city/highway average and I anticipate 30/34 mpg on straight highway at 65/70 mph. A great van for the dollar.