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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  Sedona a Satisfying Drive - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Geo - February 25 - 8:36 am

  Have owned 5 Chrysler Grand Caravans, mid-level and last one loaded with options. The Kia is a big step up in most every regard. Comfort, power, and handling are very good. Active and passive safety features equal and exceed the Honda and Toyota vans. Memory seats, mirrors and pedals help keep the Mrs. from cursing my bigger frame every time she drives after I do. Power pedals keep her back from the steering wheel airbag, a major problem in the Chrysler vans. Ride is just soft enough for comfortable cruising and stiff enough to ensure good feel and cornering. Quiet and responsive until you put your foot into the throttle and hear a satisfying effort. Kia has a winner in the Sedona.

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  I Dream of Kia... - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Eric F. - February 24 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy my Kia Sedona, its fun to drive and handles well. The fuel economy is fairly poor, however, the inexpensive price of the vehicle makes up for this fact.

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  Good Value - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Martino - February 18 - 2:00 am

  Owning the Kia just over a year now, Ive found it to be a good choice for the value. The Van has performed well and has been a pleasure to drive on long trips. The Van suffered a broken timing belt at 12000 miles, because of a plastic cover breaking in the timing belt housing. Kias roadside assistance and reimbursement program worked flawlessly.

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  SUPER PRICE - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By SHINOLAGH - February 18 - 2:00 am

  MY 2002 KIA SEDONA PLEASES ME NO END,AS I PLAN TO KEEP IT A LONG TIME THE DEPRECIATION IS OF NO VALUE. ITS WELL CONSTRUCTED AS PROVEN BY ITS WEIGHT 4709 LBS. IVE HAD IT FOR A YEAR AND AM WELL PLEASED WITH ITS QUALITIES AND HAVE NO PROBLEMS WITH IT,BOTH THE DEALER AND MECHANICLY.IT HAS ALL THE OPTIONS OF THE OTHER VANS BUT IS THOUSANDS* CHEEPER.

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  Sedona - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By avionics - February 18 - 2:00 am

  Very smooth riding van. You get tons of extras for a reasonable price. The gas milage could be a little better, but its worth it. Great Van.

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  Worse new vehicle I ever owned - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Worse vehice I owned - February 14 - 9:36 pm

  Bought in MD, live in WV, could not get thru inspection 1st week we owned car due to light bulb issue (& we have had numerous bulbs changed / numerous electrical issues). Brakes/tires eaten up regular basis & other mechanical issues. Many problems with getting warranty issues handled correctly. WARNING WARNING **DONT BUY** Worse new vehicle we have ever owned!!

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  Never Again - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Skip Geisaka - February 10 - 10:23 pm

  1st two months of ownership van was in dealers shop 4 times. Right window would stick midway up. One lube, two motors, one passenger side switch replaced. Next bubbling in paint under side windows and rust under rear logo. At 2 years 3 months and 28000 miles the alternator failed and battery died. Two weeks later going on a trip van overheated and left us stranded on side of road. Towed to dealer and they claimed upper radiator hose clamp came loose and hose came off? Poor quality control and workmanship. Never again.

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  Smart Shopper - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Smart Shopper - February 8 - 10:00 am

  We have owned our Sedona for 1.5 years and came very close to the Honda Odyssey but in the end went with what would suit our budget best. The van has been reliable and easily fits adults and carseats without crowding. We have had to use the warranty a few times and had to shop for a dealership/service dept who would accomodate the repairs without hassle. If you have time for the occassional repair of a power seat or heater fan then it is well worth the extra effort for the extra savings.

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  mom and three girls on the go - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By megan walsh - February 8 - 10:00 am

  i feel safe more secure on the parkway, more in conthol. great side mirrors. easy to clean. car seats fit great. and its fun to drive.at the dealer the were great to help us get wahat we thought was best for us.

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  Momto2Minivan - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Jgjika - February 8 - 10:00 am

  I cant even believe that I love this minivan. I thought that I would never drive one but who knew that they had leather bucket seats, a moon roof and a great stereo too!