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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  I love my Kia!!!!!!! - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Sedona - May 23 - 1:13 am

  The only problem I have had with my van is that the air conditioner has had problems since we purchased it. It made weird noises. Then it decided to stop blowing cold. However, the biggest problem in not the air, it is the service dept. We have it in the shop now, it has been there for 5 days, it should be ready tomorrow. I HOPE! I had to argue to get a loaner, as I was without a car for 5 days. The service that I was promised leaves a lot to be desired. Because of this I am unlikely to purchase another Kia. I am taking a 300 mile trip on Friday, so we are cutting it close with getting the air repaired. I Have asthma and have to have the air.

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  03 Sedona - Reliable - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Brian - May 7 - 10:40 am

  Owned since September 2003 and have put 42,000 miles on it. The only time its been back to the dealership is for the 2 recalls. We dont baby our Sedona either. We regularly take trips of 400 miles (each way) towing a 2500 lb trailer, with a cargo carrier mounted to the roof rack. Its a little sluggish going up mountain passes fully loaded and towing, but that is to be expected. Swapped oil in engine and tranny to full synthetic after 15,000 miles and picked up 3-5 mpg on the highway. This van has never failed us, even in -30 degree weather. The only thing I dislike is that it has too much low end power when driving on ice, even with studded tires. Very easy to spin the tires on ice!

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  Sedona - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By cconaf2 - May 7 - 10:00 am

  I Have 13000 miles on it with no problems. My grill has a spot that is pealing the black paint away. I have driven from DC to Texas with no problems. I think it has good acceleration. Just wish the gas malage was better.

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  So Far an Excellent Choice - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Gomez2002 - May 7 - 10:00 am

  We bought our first Kia this month. What a great vehicle. The quality of the vehicle and the options make this van a great package for the money. We have only put about 500 miles on the van to date but so far its a keeper.

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  A new experience - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By skiperpete - May 4 - 10:00 am

  This is the most suppriseing vehicle. I have ever driven. It is so responsivbe that it is hard to realize you are in a van of any type.

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  The 45,000 miles Kia - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By theld62 - May 2 - 3:36 am

  It appears that KIA products are good for about 45,000 miles. After that quality significantly falls off. At 45,000 miles I had a $1,000 scheduled maintenance bill at the dealer. My KIA Sedona died of terminal engine failure at 79,000 miles. KIA says they are not responsible for the repair. So much for the long haul warranty. Needless to say I will never purchase a KIA or Hyundai brand product ever again, and I will tell everyone I know about my experience with KIA "no service" Even other auto makers call the KIAs throw away cars because their resell value is next to nothing after just a few years. Mark my words you will be sorry for the day you ever bought a KIA or a Hyundai.

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  Good van - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By bubba sparx - April 28 - 10:00 am

  I love my van. Its comfortable and is a nice looking van. I can travel or just drive around town in comfort and style. I love all the little exstras that the car comes with

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  Both pros and cons - 2010 Kia Sedona
  By Evan - April 18 - 1:03 am

  This car is definitely has high ratio of quality and price. It runs very smoothly and quietly.

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  love it! - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By mizcece - April 16 - 1:30 am

  I looked at many many reviews before making the decision to purchase my 2006 Kia Sedona...there were really as many bad as good, but I could not have been more pleased with my decision. It is so comfortable & roomy. There is some rear "squeaking" sometimes, but not that bad that I regret getting the vehicle. I simply love it! For a busy mom on the go it has been perfect!

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  This is the best mpv ever med - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By iekrwer - April 14 - 10:00 am

  Excellent. The kids can do what they want in the back of the car. Me and my wife just talk a bit.