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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  The BEST purchase EVER! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Megan F. - February 7 - 10:00 am

  Just to sum this up in a nutshell, this was the BEST purchase we ever made! We researched every mini van on the market, and test drove several different makes. The KIA drove the best, and is so comfortable! The best part, the price, unbelievable. We couldnt be happier!

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  Get your motor runnin (if you can) - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By eatjustone - January 31 - 11:13 pm

  If its to good to be true than it is! 4,000 miles on the Kia and its had 2 recalls and now the check engine light is on. I have waited 8 weeks for a call to tell me my warranty recall parts are in. I know Korea is a long ways from here but I assumed they would mail the parts, not deliver them with a bicycle! Be warned, a pretty package and cheap price dont make up for the headaches you may encounter.

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  Kia Sedona - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By beano1 - January 25 - 2:00 am

  I have had this van for over a year now and I love it.Only problem was a defective heater fan and it was replaced.Have had excellent service in NH. where I live.

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  Kia evaluation - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By ron thibodeau - January 17 - 10:53 pm

  I find the Kia Sedona a good riding car with a good comfortable interior. One negative is that the gas mileage is poor - maybe 17 mpg local, 21 mpg on trips

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  Great value - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By markymark - January 15 - 10:00 am

  Great looking & value for the money. We got the EX because of all the extras...and its not that much more. This one has everything you need. Got DVD, sunroof, ABS (a necessity), spoiler, leather seats as options. Never thought the spoiler would add so much, looks great. If you want a great minivan with value for the dollar...this is the one. Try to find something else with so many features, warranty and safety. It rides great, looks great and my family loves it. Very quiet, no rattles or shakes, excellent shifting transmission...very responsive. Engine is solid...there when you need it.

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  Good deal - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Paul - January 14 - 6:56 pm

  It was this or the Grand Caravan, I like the stow and go of the caravan but the 2006 Sedona had stow in go in the back and the seats folded down. The caravan also had many bad consumer reviews. I was amazed at the power and roominess. I got a great deal on it by playing 1 dealer against the other. Saved about $3,000 over the price of a caravan and about $9,000 less than new. It only had 15k miles. Sure beats buying new.

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  I have 2 Kias and LOVE them - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By mom_of_two - January 12 - 4:56 am

  We first purchased a 2006 Kia Optima LX (brand new and still own) when we had our first child. Then we purchased our 2006 Kia Sedona LX (used - 5yrs old) when we had our second child. I love both of my Kias. Sure I have had some issues, like the Air Bag light and Check Engine light - but no car is perfect. Even if you own a BMW or MB, there are still issues! I will forever drive a KIA : )

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  Great minivan for the price! - 2011 Kia Sedona
  By scoop14 - January 7 - 4:09 am

  My 2011 Sedona was $6000 less out the door than Sienna and has a better warranty. Our local Kia dealership is also a well respected family business. Sienna drove slightly better but certainly not $6000 worth! Truth is with two kids & a dog to haul around it needs to be comfortable, solid & safe - it is. The Sedonas 3.5 V6 is powerful, willing, and sounds really good winding out. The auto shifts cleanly and manual mode works well in the hills. The 18/25 mileage figures are accurate. I meet or exceed these numbers when driven calmly. 5600 miles so far and one problem (sticky purge valve = rough idle) fixed without problem under warranty with loaner provided. Happy so far with my first Kia.

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  Most practical vehicle I have ever owned - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By ramguy7 - January 1 - 11:36 am

  Have owned luxury vehicles and several trucks; the minivan is the most practical, and one of the most comfortable overall, I have ever owned. I am sold on minivan ownership; it can be a luxury car most of the time, then when necessary remove 2 rows of seats, and you have a truck with more space than my Ford Ranger 4x4, which I also was very fond of.

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  Buick ride & quality at a Kia Price! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By smulvey - January 1 - 10:00 am

  I replaced my Buick Park Avenue with 125,000 miles , with this KIA. The Buick suffered a sudden crack in the transmission flywheel. I found no difference in ride quality and the fit and finish frmo my Buick to my KIA. The acceleration is excellent too. My Buick got about 30 MPG and my KIA get 25 MPG. But with the extra seating options and front and rear a/c I love the KIA more. I like the fact I saved more than $ 15,000 off the Buick Price. I saved so much money I bought my wife a car too! A KIA SPECTRA !