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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  so far, so good - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By mamabear - September 12 - 10:00 am

  We bought our Kia Sedona EX in July 2002 and have put about 1000 miles on it, both city and highway driving Massachusetts. It has leather interior, ABS, sunroof, homelink and two tone paint. We were amused by the professional reviews saying that the van had sluggish acceleration. We dont know what the reviewers were comparing it to, but compared to our old mini-van this car has plenty of pick up and go. We baby-sit our grandkids and have two carseats to contend with when we pick them up. The dual sliding doors are convenient especially for loading and unloading the toddlers. Were still learning about the vans features but we are pleased so far.

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  im satisfied so far - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By mike40 - September 8 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my Sedona 4 days now, i know thats not enough time to really critique it, but i really like it!!, plenty of storage inside, ( i especially like the lock box under the passenger seat!). And the very peppy engine is a shocker to me, no wimpy 4cylinder here!!!,but the real kicker is the warranty!!! Ford, Chevy, Dodge,and host of others cant even come close!!!!!. Its good to know that when i make my last payment on my van there will be warranty left on it!!!!!!!

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  Windstar No More - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By robleyw - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Traded our 99 Windstar. Love the Sedona! 2002 Sedona EX: Sun roof, HomeLink, Emerald Green / Silver two-tone with dark gray cloth interior. All for less than $20,500! About 1200 miles on it now and it just keeps getting better and better. EPA mileage ratings way low (15/20) - we see 17.5 to 18 in the city. This van is better than the Windstar in every respect. And the warranty: Wow!

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  Quality + Value + Need = Sedona - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By EzS - August 31 - 2:00 am

  Overall, Sedona is a very good van. Quality of components are good, drives well. Never felt slow. Interior comfort is superior compared to most minivans available in the market now. seats can be arranged many different ways. Night time driving is very comfortable. Headlights are very bright. Visibility is excellent even with the rear seat headrests in place. Only negative thing i can say about the van is the fuel economy. Trip range is approximately 270 miles on average on full tank of regular Gasoline. Not good. Averages around 16 mpg.

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  I will buy another! - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By SchlingBlade - August 27 - 10:56 am

  Purchased our 2004 KIA Sedona LX new near the end of 2004. Lots of extended highway driving when we go on trips, and the van performs well. 20-22mpg on the highway if we keep it under 70mph. I have replaced the original tires (56K miles), and windshield (rock cracked it). No other work outside of normal scheduled maintenance (fluid changes, tire rotation). Will need to have the front brakes serviced for the first time when 60K miles rolls around. Interior has worn well, except for the drivers side floor where the carpet is dirty. Van is driven every day, regardless of weather, so it gets quite dirty in the winter. Once this van is paid off, Ill be purchasing another KIA!

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  like it - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By nikki - August 21 - 10:00 am

  We just bought ours a few weeks ago and I am in love with it awesome pick

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  Love My Van, She part of the family - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Yogi & Mike Healy - August 11 - 6:30 pm

  I have enjoyed this van from day one. Bought it new,with under 10 miles on it.Have enjoyed every mile on it.She has all the power that my wife wants and needs,w/3.8 v6.I dont think that will we every trade her in. Everything has worked great. The Dealerships are becoming far and few.They have taken care of any small problem w/ no problem. One thing that needs to be address is lites front,fog they have gone out and can only be changed at the dealership? Why cause you have to take off the front bumper? That stinks. The Van drives so smooth has great pick up also drives like a sports car.I would buy another but only used as they do drop in value fast.Paid $29950 worth $8750 ouch :-(

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  excellent - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Anthonygag - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I had one problem only with the evaperator it was repair in 30 mins.

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  NOT BAD - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By TRUECRITIC - August 8 - 2:00 am

  WELL IT HAS A SMOOTH RIDE,SLIDES IN SNOW (MAYBE ITS THE TIRES THAT CAME FROM MANUFACTURE)THE CUP HOLDER THAT PULLS OUT UNDER THE RADIO THE CLAW THAT TIGHTENS TO HOLD CUP BROKE.LEANING ON FENDERS PUTS A DENT.THE PAINT CHIPS VERY EASY.THE ONLY TIME YOU GET GOOD EXCELARATION IS WHEN YOU SHUT OFF THE OVERDRIVE FOR ON HIGHWAY RAMP.THE FABRIC SEATS IN THE FRONT HAVE LITTLE FABRIC PULLS FROM GETTING IN AND OUT.(I NEVER LIKED LEATHER ALWAYS HAD FABRIC AND THIS IS THE FIRST TIME SEEING THE FABRIC PULL OUT FROM SIMPLE USE)DRIVER SIDE MIRROR INSIDE MOTOR WILL NOT ADJUST OUT (CLICKING NOISE)CANNOT SWITCH REAR BUCKET SEATS TO MIDDLE AND MIDDLE BENCH TO REAR.

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  sedona - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By truedale3fan - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Love it....runs great responds wonderfully. We bought it because of the standard package items that were additional on most all the other vans and love it because of the things that are not standard.