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 Greatest Minivan Ever! - 2006 Kia Sedona
By Nick Verna - November 3 - 10:26 pmMy wife and I are very happy with the purchase of our new Kia Sedona. After shopping the Honda and Toyota, the Kia really stood out with its performance, price, and warranty. We could not believe all the standard safety features that got higher marks than the competition. As a former Japanese owner, I think the South Koreans have some new fans in our household. Way to go Kia!
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so far so good! - 2004 Kia Sedona
By natalio hanna - October 27 - 10:00 amgreat mini van. for sure better than any american built. dont compare with hondas or nissans. but they dont have nearly as good a warrenty
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kick ass mini van - 2004 Kia Sedona
By ghoss - October 21 - 10:00 amTows my jet skis with no problem. Grate power and comfort.
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UPSET Coustomer - 2006 Kia Sedona
By Upset Kia Owner - October 20 - 7:16 pmI would tell anyone not to buy a KIA. I bought the van new and it has been in the shop more than it has been on the road. Brake problems, Belt tensioner, and MULTIPLE electrical problems. Turn signals work intermittently. Head lights keep blowing out. Air Bag Warning Light on more than its off. Keyless remotes both failed. Heater fan quit working in the middle of a snow storm. Wipers quit working during a rain storm while driving down the road. I dont trust the thing to drive out of town. I cant trade the thing because the value has dropped to the point that now Im upside down in value. This van was the worst new vehicle Ive ever owned. Dont buy a Kia!
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2nd Review - 2006 Kia Sedona
By Mike - October 20 - 8:03 amAfter owning this van for six months I can say that were very happy with it. As I read everyone elses reviews, I see that the mileage is complaint #1 and I have to admit at the beginning I felt the same way. However, now that we put about 3500 miles on it and the weather is getting better, we live in Chicago, were starting to see an improvement on this issue. Also, you need to hit the reset button on the console once in a while in order to get an accurate mileage reading. Other than that, we have no complaints. She still rides and feels tight as day one. After first winter, were surprised how well it handles the snow/slippery conditions.
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Wish it were better - 2003 Kia Sedona
By ROYMAN - October 13 - 2:00 amI have a 02 Sedona EX, purchased 7/28/02 . I like many qualities about the vehicle but feel,that Kias quality control is non-existent. I have spent nearly as many days in the shop as in the driveway. Lumbar seat switch stuck on and depleted the battery, requiring using roadside assistance. Then power steering pump, A/C partial replacement, replacement of entire left rear trim panel, transmission irregularity and lastly, rust on the tailgate requiring repainting and 3 day tie up.(I live in Florida).Not a good experience at all. The mileage is horrific (which I knew when I bought it). Should have at least 16" wheels,
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poor fuel economy - 2005 Kia Sedona
By Mark - October 12 - 3:20 pmThis 2005 Kia Sedona seemed like a nice van at first, then I noticed the brakes didnt have a solid response in defensive braking. Turning sharp corners made the vehicle feel top heavy.The real surprise came when the fuel mileage averaged out 7 MPG!!!. I asked other owners and got similar news. The 3.5 V6 has plenty of power and most likely too much thus such low mpg. Unfortunately these vans lose their value very quickly.
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Just the facts - 2007 Kia Sedona
By Ken, SC - October 3 - 12:26 pmUnlike other reviews, I have put over 80000 miles on my Sedona in just 2 years. So, Im talking experience here. The car handles like a sports car. The ride is pretty good, although there is no isulation to speak of (you hear a lot of road noise). I get 20 mpg in city/highway driving. On the open road, at 75, I get 24-25. Great bang for the buck! Downside! The residual value on this vehicle is horrible. Comparing it to other minivans with comparable equipment, mileage, and initial purchase cost, the Kia is $4k-5k less. I trade every 2 years, and expect to pay to get right side up. However, this van is costing me too much to trade. Cost new; $24k. Now; $6500! What a hit in 2 years!
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Great Van, Bad Dealer (Royal Kia Tucson) - 2003 Kia Sedona
By brihome - October 2 - 10:00 amMy wife loves her van. This is a great vehicle for the price. My wife has recommended this van (with leather) to several friends, I just dont recommend Royal Kia in Tucson, AZ (unless you enjoy games and phone calls after purchase).
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Sedonna surpise - 2003 Kia Sedona
By Cgars7 - September 26 - 10:00 amVery nice vehicle - drives solid - great pick up - Comfortable on long trips. So far it has been a pleasant surprise -
