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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  Newly bought - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By John - June 12 - 11:53 pm

  My buying experience was the best I could expect. I have driven the car 200 miles since buying it yesterday and love the feel of the wheel and the comfort. I look forward to filling it with my family members!

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  excellent - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Debra D. Anderson - June 6 - 3:06 pm

  This was one of the most important decisons I had to make since moving to the Virginia area. This turned out to be the best thing I did. The ride is comfortable, the gas mileage is great and I am recommending the vehicle to others.

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  David vs. Goliath - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Vango - June 3 - 5:03 pm

  Any moron who is willing to pay 15K+ or more for a comparable equipped Dodge, Ford, Pontiac, or Honda should deserve to pay for the name. David beats Goliath - no contest.

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  Good for the price - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Cjreyeshsd - May 25 - 2:00 am

  Has a very powerful engine. The 5 Speed Transmission is Great. In General is Very Responsive. Sound System is decent. Nice Interior distribution. The Fuel economy is the only thing is disappointing, this the heviest minivan of all, but after this vehicle is one of the top ranks in this category. The finishings have great quality

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  Great People mover - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By acer - May 14 - 12:36 am

  Owned 2 Ford Windstars, tired of constant mechanical issues. Did a lot of research before i brought the Sedona EX. After 7 months of owning the Sedona Ex best can still say its a great vehicle. Sedona is extremely solid, we have the ex w/ leather and entertainment pack.interior materials are of good quality, extremely roomy, great storage. I love the sunroof, and side windows that go down. Transmission is very smooth. Gas mileage has been combined 22 mpg. I love driving this van, feels like your driving a luxury vehicle. Has a lot of pep for a minivan (245 HP).Quality is right up there with Honda and Toy. You wont be disappointed. Great warranty, highest safety ratings, great price.

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  No Complaints.. - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Larry Wygant - May 10 - 4:30 am

  Have driven 520125 miles since May 03 , 11 round trips to Florida ,to help in laws clean up after hurricanes.Mileage 19.5 to 22.2 traveling 70 to80 MPH all day long ,hauled trailer back to Indiana in January loaded at 3000 pounds, mileage 17 to 18 in Fla,, when into cold weather in Indiana, at 5 above mileage down to 14 to 15 at 70 Mph all day long . Van is very dependable ,great at high speed when dodging truck tire treads on I 75 ,the handeling of this Sedona is EXCELLENT rides and drives so very smooth Great Machine .

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  Great value on the EX - 2014 Kia Sedona
  By arizonajim - May 9 - 2:58 pm

  We have only had the Sedona for 2 weeks, but we really like it. It feels great, has plenty of power, and cost a lot less that the Toyota or the Honda vans. The pedals adjust for my wife, who is 5 feet tall, and she loves it. It has leather, power seat with memory, and everything I want. It has a sun roof, which I didnt want. If it missing anything, I cant imagine what it might be. It has back up camera, back up warning, blue tooth.

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  great van - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By michelle grube - May 8 - 10:00 am

  we had the best expierience with the whole package. We went in the showroom and purchased this van and we love everything about it. We will tell everyone about lokey clearwater. thank you.

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  A pleasure to drive - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Faye lloyd - May 5 - 3:06 pm

  This is the second Kia Sedona that I have owned...I find that it is very reliable with no problems at all. It is a very comfortable van with lots of leg room.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By Jay Thomas - May 2 - 8:33 pm

  I traded my 5 year old Chevy Venture for a new 2007 Kia Sedona EX with all options. I have not been disappointed. This van rides quiet and feels extremely solid on the road. Powerful and smooth. The build quality is excellent. Fit and finish are superb. Fuel economy has been much better than expected. Averaging around 20.5 MPG combined city/hwy and got 23.3 mpg on vacation this summer. Not bad when you consider 75 mph with four people and a weeks worth of luggage. Changed the oil myself. Very easy to do since the oil filter is located on the top of the engine. I highly recommend this van.