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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  Very Surprised! - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By dmanley - April 12 - 9:30 am

  My wife and I recently had our third child age 5 and under. Given car seats, stroller, diaper bags etc. we felt like we had to succumb to a minivan. After researching/comparing other minivans the Sedona seemed like the best bang for the buck. We have owned our Sedona for 5 weeks now and we are thrilled with the very comfortable car-like ride, smooth handling, climate control throughout the cabin and all the extra room. We are extremely pleased at this point, and cant imagine not having this wonderful vehicle. Highly recommend at this point in our ownership.

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  Not a complaint outta me - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By I_dig_my_KIA - April 8 - 10:00 am

  In reality, she isnt that much cheaper than the competition, but the Sedona is well built, packed with extras that are options on competitive vehicles, and an all around people hauler. I read many complaints about the LX not coming with Keyless entry? Well learn to barter with your dealer. I got keyless, floormats, lifetime detailing and oil changes thrown in for free. total price of the nicest minivan I have ever owned: $17,400. Compared to my 98 Grand Voyager, this thing is faultless.

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  My First Kia minivan - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Mannyfern - April 4 - 2:00 am

  This minivan has all the things youd want in a family vehicle. My Sedona EX came with leather, power seats, abs, am/fm cassette, cd 6 speaker stereo, plenty of cup holders and all for about 20 grand. The performance from the 3.5L V6 engine is excellent. You can feel the torque at low rpms move you along quickly, making it fun to drive. So far after 3000 miles my Sedona has had no problems whatsoever. I shoped around and for could not find anything close to it value wise. The great warranty of 10 year / 100,000 miles on drivetrain makes it a no brainer.

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  This Kia van is awesome!! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By ALAN HONG - March 30 - 10:00 am

  I really love the way it drives and feels on the road. And the features are much nicer compared to the 99 Sienna CE I leased for 4 years for $450 per month. I am now a proud owner of an EX Sedona with leather, sunroof, ABS and even a spoiler for only $446 per month, PURCHASED!! I cant be happier. And the service department is one of the best. Overall I am very happy with the whole purchase experience and I think this is the best minivan ever made.

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  Great van at a great price - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By tim L - March 30 - 10:00 am

  This is my first Kia and my first minivan and I am impressed. I walked into the dealership with everything researched and walked out with just what i wanted at the price i wanted to pay. I am impressed with the vehicle. It runs great and is very comfortable. the only thing i can see i dont like is the gas mileage. It is lower than most other minivans, but i guess you cant have everything. I would definely recommend this Vehicle.

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  Great family vehicle - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Sawyer - March 27 - 5:13 am

  We bought our Van 2 weeks ago and love it.We have three small children and when looking around for a van we wanted one with a lot of storage/room as well as an affordable price.The Sedonas inside design allows for plenty of storage and I love all the cup holders and A/C Adaptors.We also liked that the dual slide doors comes standard on all models.The one thing I would change would be the width of the van.We have the model that has captain chairs and it is a little difficult to walk between the two seats.I have noticed on other vans the body is much wider.Other than that we love this van.We intend to keep it a long time.The great thing about Kia is the warranty! 100K/10years.You cant beat it

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  One Awesome Minivan - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By JeremyK - March 25 - 10:00 am

  This is a great minivan that has definately changed my mind about Kia. I look forward to owning my Sedona for a long long time.

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  The best van - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Rehrer - March 24 - 12:46 pm

  I had a van for sixteen years and knew it was time to start looking for a new one. We looked at Ford, Honda, and then Kia. We stopped looking! We bought our Kia in December 2004. We love it. I went from hauling my children to hauling my grand children. I just cant say enough good about this vehicle. Great gas mileage(especially with the gas prices),the price paid for the van was heaven sent(affordable). Thank you, Sandy & Eddie Rehrer

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  FIRST NEW CAR THAT I OWNED - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By susan - March 22 - 12:56 pm

  I have always love the KIA and that was the only car I wanted we went to the dealer and I love it. I have blue and would not trade it for anything.

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  Best Value in the Minivan Market - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Troy Pettibon - March 21 - 11:13 am

  After thinking that we wanted a Town&Country my wife and I went to look at the 06 Sedonas after seeing the commercial on TV. We sure are glad that we did. It beats the Town and Country hands down. It is also just as good, if not a little better than the Odyssey or the Sienna. We have 1 year old twins. The power sliding doors are a godsend. The interior is wonderfully crafted, and everything is well made. I love the exterior styling as well.