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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  Kia vs. others - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By rubituli - November 16 - 6:40 pm

  We bought this Sedona on reviews alone. I read car and driver and trust their take on vehicle reviews. Also the consumer reviews were very helpful. This is a no frills product and very straight forward in design. Its very comfortable to drive and very practical. Better than the domestics and equal to the Japanese offerings. I would look to either this Kia or the Honda. In terms quality both are equal but the Honda is a bit more sporty. Lets see here - sporty vs. 10 year warranty? Take your pick, for me its the Kia, I really like this vehicle.

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  Kia Warranty - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Morgan - November 14 - 12:33 pm

  The battery and fuel pump had to be replaced within the first 2 weeks. If the battery fails call roadside assistance. Kia makes no allowances for extenuating circumstances and will strictly adhere to their written policies.

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  Love this van!! - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By josephina1000 - November 10 - 3:10 pm

  We bought this van brand new back in January 2005. We had it for 6 whole years now. Never had 1 problems w/ it. We drove it all the way from Calif to Florida and back. Dragged a tent trailer and regular trailer w/ it quite often. It has totally held up really well. We maintained it and took care of it. It was the best van we ever had. We are now looking into trading it in for a newer model. We highly recommend this mini van.

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  Interesting differences - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Wozza - November 7 - 10:00 am

  I am in UK, and have a 12/03 registered ex Dealer demonstrator 2004 model Sedona L. Unlike the US a 2.9 diesel engine is available and the fuel consumption on this is 30-34 UK gall per mile. Engine is not speedy but does have grunt. From what I can see from sites/reviews the main issue is quality control in Korea, also possibly does not like certain driving styles (heavy braking rather than anticipation..etc.) We wait to see how it goes over the years. A lot of vehicle for the money but the jury is out over longevity.

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  A Fun Family Car to drive - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By josafat - October 25 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I were looking for a family car that would be comfortable for the three of us (have a 2 year old daughter), plus our baby close to arrive. After looking to some SUVs and some other mini Vans we knew this Kia was the one because the three of us (including my daughter), loved it since we went in to our test drive. It is a fun vehicle to drive with the standard CD player and cassete player. Its ride is very smooth, with its dual air conditioning controls we can easily accomodate my wifes and myself use.

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  My Sedona - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Orlando Casados - October 20 - 10:00 am

  I find my KIA a little heavy to drive and the turning radius too wide other than that I enjoy driving the vehicle, Its more than I expected, the Koreans did a good job. Id buy another. It is not a Oddessy But it is about $14,000 cheaper. GREAT vehicle

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  Who knew what a 15 minute test drive didnt tell - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Beatrice Echols - October 7 - 5:53 am

  This is by far the worst vehicle we have had. It is entirely too small inside, seats are uncomfortable, visor on drivers side is difficult to see past when down, hard to see behind auto with head rests, they were removed, built for small persons, gas mileage is not anywhere near 22mpg highway, cant hardly make a "U" turn, power steering is rotten, like not having much if any. All dash and steering column gadgets are located in awkward places and user unfriendly! Heater is not consistent, radio dial volume knob turns and turns after full volume is reached. Any person sitting in very back seat cannot sit up straight if over 6 ft tall. We want out of this car ASAP.

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  Very satisfied - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By GSaibben - October 7 - 2:00 am

  Purchased in anticipation of several long distance trips with three active children, and having the van makes all the difference in the world. Nice performance and handling, very comfortable ride, good use of space. No mechanical problems at all. A worthwhile car, and an excellent value at the asking price. Gas mileage isnt the greatest, but people dont buy large cars expecting great MPG. Ive gotten as high as 22 cruising at 80 with a fully loaded van and dual A/C blowing -- but it drops below 20 if you are climbing serious mountains or mix city driving.

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  high mileage person - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By ssch51 - October 7 - 2:00 am

  I travel over 7 months of a year. I previously owned a kia sophia but it was not big enough for the equipment I carry -printers computers etc. I then bought the Sedona. So far I like the ride, comfort and mileage. I am empressed with the Kia vehicles. I as I stated need reliable vehicle to travel for my job.

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  KIA Sedona EX - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By KIA Mini-Van - October 6 - 9:03 pm

  We bought our KIA Sedona because we needed more seating room for carpooling. We didnt want to spend $$$$ on a mini-van, so we went with the KIA because of the price and warranty. A GREAT vehicle! We love it! Not as roomy as other mini-vans, but GREAT for our purpose...carpooling.