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:

• 

  Gas guzzler - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Andrea K. - August 11 - 12:10 pm

  Bought this van used and had nothing but problems with it. Air conditioning never worked;had a tiny leak that no one could ever find. Engine missed and jerked whenever the weather was humid and cool;basically all Spring and Fall. Again, no mechanic could figure out what was wrong. Rear heat antifreeze pipe rusted and broke. Sliding doors were heavy and hard for kids to pull shut. The MPG was horrible!!!! I got 13 MPG in the city!!! This van was constantly out of alignment and the tires always wore unevenly. It just wouldnt stay in alignment no matter how many times I had it done and bought new tires. The van was a piece of junk and Im so glad to be rid of it.

• 

  Many problems in the beginning - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By lilteddy78 - July 15 - 10:00 am

  When we first recieved the van we were ok until we hit 700 miles. The check engine light came on and would not go off even with the dealer working on it. It took 6 dealer attempts to finally fix it. Then the passenger window came loose. Then the horn would not work. We finally have a working van after 4 months of having it. I am not impressed with the gas mileage. I get below 15mpg even with freeway driving. I think the highest Ive gotten was 17mpg and Im not sure how I did that. Overall nice van but would like them to improve the gas mileage!

• 

  Have had problems with my Kia Sedona LX - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By R.J. - June 15 - 1:06 am

  Yes the Kia is very comfortable and has lots of nice gadgets, the kia does drive well and gains speed pretty quickly, aside from that I have had more of a headache with it then what it is worth: I have had to take my KIA in 3 times already within 2 months time. The power sliding doors do not open so I have to manually pull them open, my Kia will start only when IT wants to! First I was told it was the junction box that needed to be replaced and now it is supposedly the "body control module" that now needs to be replaced. As a mother with four children I am very busy with school, sports, work, etc. I absolutely need a reliable form of transportation this van is NOT reliable!

• 

  Disappointed - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Brian - June 14 - 10:20 am

  I am disappointed with the 2004 Kia Sedona. Very poor gas mileage, about 12 mpg in town. Quality is poor. Rear hatch has a clunk sound when opening and the windows have the same when when closing. The bench seat in the middle is a big hassle. Dealer said the middle and rear seats are interchangeable which they are not. I will not buy another Kia.

• 

  Good value but horrible fuel economy - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Tom in Houston - March 25 - 8:43 am

  This is a functional, well-designed, comfortable, and generally good- handling minivan. Its also a great value compared to Toyota and Honda. But the fuel economy really sucks. Im averaging 13.5 MPG overall (mostly city driving). Thats way worse than the 98 Grand Voyager it replaced. I might as well have bought a Tahoe or Expedition, which look cooler and are just as big. Also, Im on my 3rd battery in three years. Hmmm.

• 

  Kia Sedona needs help - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By flmarijack@aol.com - March 19 - 2:00 am

  My Kia Sedona is excellant in design, engineering and convienance. Quality of components, fuel ecomony, exterior finish, and service are terrible. The interior panels rate are poor on impact resistance. The paint finish is full of orange . City is 14 mpg, Buckboard riding tires and an ear piercing noise from the rear air that Kia cannot fix. Complaints to corporate Kia landing on closed ears. I have entered this van for the "lemon law" program. I made a mistake buying this van. If you are thinking of buying this van, I suggest buyer beware

• 

  2 Engines and Counting - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By TallWill - February 17 - 10:00 am

  I have had more troubles with this vehicle than with all other vehicles combined. I had the rear seals and the head gasket on the first engine replaced at 17K, the engine replaced at 22K. (it leaked oil again) The gaskets replaced on the second engine at 28K and guess what it leaks again at 37K. This is not to mention the starter, alternator, fuel sending unit, the door handle that broke, and the fog light that was half full of water. (All replaced or repaired under warranty) The tires were very poor and were replaced at 20K and the breaks are almost shot. If you include the poor gas mileage, it was one heck of a value.

• 

  Dont Buy One! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Palmtree - November 29 - 10:00 am

  Picked up EX on Wed. Heater defective. On Sat., they say bring back on Mon. Go back on Mon. (after a very chilly 5 days), and get rental car. Finally call me on Thurs. to say its fixed and they had to order a part and take apart my whole dashboard. Pick up my car again on Thursday. Immediately notice a 4-inch knife gash in passenger door upholstery. Show manager. Promises to replace entire door panel today. So now I have a brand new, 10-day old car that Ive gotten to drive only 3 days. AND, theyre never the same once they start taking apart the dash, door etc. Exceptionally poor service given by Fette Ford -- during both sales process/repair.

• 

  Not worth the problems - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By whizza99 - November 13 - 1:43 pm

  Well, the starter going within the first week should of been the sign. 5 yrs, 80,000 miles later I have 3 broken handles they will not fix for less than $500 apiece, the turning radius is like a box or truck, not like all the caravans Ive had. I gave up 18" in the grand caravan and you really do miss it. I have gone thru numerous tires, so put GOOD tires on it. Gas mileage stinks! I bought it for the warranty but after 5 yrs the bumper to bumper is gone and now all the little problems are creeping up. Back seat doesnt slide, etc.

• 

  Dealer Good, Van Lousy - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Doug Smith - August 30 - 5:20 pm

  We have had numerous repairs for our 2002 Kia Sedona EX. However, the dealer has been great about doing all repairs under the 10 year/100,000 mile warranty. Sometimes repair work is slow, but the dealer always tries, and never charges anything. Biggest problems with the car are bad gas mileage (but the heavy weight makes it a nice interstate cruiser) and weak A/C. Strange problem we have had is bad transmissions. Would not go in reverse at all, two repairs with rebuilt KIA trannys did not work, but the ultimate new KIA tranny at 40,000 seemed to work. However, we are having the knocking again now, at 50,000, so we may be up for another tranny. Great dealer, lousy vehicle.