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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  MY NEW KIA - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By chai - August 8 - 2:00 am

  We bought our kia in march 2003 and found it to be a great investment. We do a lot of running around kids to various sporting events and driving others in our family to places they need to go. It has a great warranty that no one else can match . I would and have recommended kias to my friends and family.

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  2005 Sedona Rating - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Pauletta - August 4 - 5:13 pm

  This is not the first Kia. But it is our first SUV. It is such a pleasure to drive ... handles so easily, and mobility is excellent. The only downside is the small gas tank. It doesnt hold much gas at a time. Would rather not have to visit gas station as often. Like the 16 inch tires. It is a joy to drive. Was purchased as replacement for husbands car, but wife took it over! He hasnt had much opportunity to drive it!

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  Automatic Door Issues - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By maememories24 - August 2 - 4:32 pm

  We bought the van used in Dec 2010 with 25K on it. Two days after we drove it home it was back in the shop for issues with the hatch not closing, come to find out there was a recall on it. Two weeks later it was back at the dealer for issues with the sliding doors not closing and jamming up. We have now had the vehicle 8 months and from May - August it has been at the dealer WEEKLY for the same door issues. They can not seem to fix it and when they say they do you no sooner get home and the doors do the same thing. The passenger side door has actually opened up while in drive! Be very cautious when purchasing this vehicle. I will go back to my trusty Honda, I gave Kia a try and they failed.

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  Consider carefully - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Brian Macy - July 28 - 10:00 am

  I bought the Sedona because it is cheap and safe. In this case you get less than you pay for. It isnt user friendly, the vehicle is made out of poor quality materials, and the vehicle is noisey. So far it has overheated because of a fan relay failing and the dashboard lights have gone out. The internal fuse box cover is constantly falling off while driving. The vehicle is simply not quite there and though other vehicles may cost $5-6k more they are more than twice the car. So spend if it you can afford it.

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  wonderful - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By mcdaniel - July 22 - 10:00 am

  My husband purchased a sadona for me for my Birthday. It was the best van I ever had. compared to the dodge caravan I the Kia is #1. My hats off to the designer of this one. Thanks Kia

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  Bang for your buck - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By skeptiq - July 21 - 3:00 pm

  I have owned this for over a year and I can honestly say I have really enjoyed it from the first day. Main purchase reason was more space for trips with the family. The ride is great, the seats are comfortable, and I have only had minor issues (one front wheel bearing and the dealership replaced both under warranty with NO hassles). Great vehicle for the money, but plan on keeping it as the resale value is awful!

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  Best surprise in less expensive minivan! - 2010 Kia Sedona
  By rustynutz - July 21 - 9:00 am

  bought used with 33,000 from car rental, saved $$$$. Changed to mobile one oil, took a 2,000 mile trip from SA TX to Wich KS and back, plus sight seeing. Averaged 25mpg running mostly 80mph. Pros: Great seating, acceleration, handling, traction and braking. good visability, low road noise, lots of storage places and plenty of drink holders. Well placed controls, easy to access while driving. Good factory window tinting, dual A/C keeps everyone comfy. Getting around 18 mpg in town. Cons: Cant think of any yet, will post later if I find any.

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  Kia you should not own - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Vilma Ramos - July 19 - 2:00 am

  This Mini van handles well its fun to drive. But the engine shakes, The shock obsorbers in the front make a thumping noise, the rear door is hard to close. The belts on the engine make noise and it has a flimzie accelerator. When you take it to the dealer to see if the can make adjustments/repairs they tell you its a kia. So my recomendation is not to buy one.

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  Be Careful about Fuel System - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Keil - July 18 - 1:43 pm

  Purchased vehicle in November 2004, took to service center in December, January, February and again in March. The problem has been a "Faulty" fuel pressure switch. According to the service manager this is a known problem that continues to cause problems. It should be fixed this time. Only 6200 miles on vehicle. Unable to take on trips afraid check engine light will go on again.

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  Best deal on the Market! - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By Jack D. Bell - July 12 - 10:36 am

  This van is fully loaded-plus, we added on a combo navigation/rear camera system, expensive, but worth it! Car has plenty of power, and transmission is smooth stock tires are adequate, but I will eventually replace them with ultimate quality tires. Its quiet at all speeds. A great plus is the headlights, which light up the road at night like monster floodlights. An important safety advance, in our opinion. We traded in an Odyssey ex- l, and we do not regret it, although, overall, the Kia is not quite as sumptuous as the Odyssey was. But, the price differential was too great to ignore (about $6000 less, comparably equipped). Ergonomics are first-rate; even the sun-roof works easily!