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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  Best Car in 35 years - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By L. Tullar - June 1 - 2:00 am

  I have owned and driven hundreds of vehicles in 35 years of driving. I presently own a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado [150,000 miles], a Ford Taurus [100,000 miles], a Jeep Wrangler [80,000 mi, an XKE Jag [60,000 miles] and a 66 Austin Healey [57,000 miles]. This is the 1st vehicle that I have driven 20,000 miles without a single problem of any kind. The Chevrolet pickup was built like a tinker toy while the Sedona was built "like a rock." We have not had to return to the dealer for anything. I am so thrilled with the reliability of this vehicle that I am going to buy a Sorento this year. Chevrolet and Ford have a lot to learn from Kia.

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  Cheap Imitation - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By tony11220 - May 21 - 10:00 am

  I selected the kia Sedona for price, shortness (for city parking), and the 10 year warranty. The service department is awful and the dealership didnt keep its word on the deal. I cant drive with visor down, it was poorly designed. Also, the body was poorly designed, a kid leaned against the front fender and it "popped" in creating a dent! On the plus side - it has great pick-up, looks good (even if its a cheap knock-off of American cars). My greatest dissatisfaction is with the service shop and the lies of the dealership (like free loaner car when my kia is in the shop overnight).

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  Luxury on a budget - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By xVRM - May 21 - 10:00 am

  LX trim has all the features I wanted, none that I didnt want. Sage Green is a nice color you dont see every day. Price unbeatable. Design is so clean and ride is luxurious. Comfortable and fun-to-drive. Im SO sold on this vehicle!

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  Moms minivan - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By kateguin - May 21 - 10:00 am

  Kids love the multiple power connections in the rear (one at third seat, one in trunk). Kids love having "picnics" on the back of the 2nd row captains chairs. 2nd row seats are easy to remove. Temp reading for outside temp is not reliable. Gas reading (distance to empty) is a nice feature.

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  2004 Kia Sedona - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By floridamcmarion1 - May 21 - 10:00 am

  We are very happy with our Sedona. The value is great, and its an overall awesome minivan.

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  I love my Sedona - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Kelley - May 18 - 6:36 am

  Absolutely no problems. Plenty of power and very comfy to drive. Lots of room for family and lots of stuff. We take it and all our stuff to the beach whenever possible.

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  KIA Sedona LX - spirited driver - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By Robinson Family - May 17 - 12:36 pm

  I traded in a 05 Impala for this vehicle and I dont feel as if I sacrificed anything by purchasing it. I have the same amount of power with my KIA as I had with the Impala. Its GREAT! Who would have thought a minivan with 250 horses? I can roast the tires if Im not careful! Comfortable and very stable ride. When I first purchased it, I found myself driving it like a sports sedan. And the best thing is that the vehicle will allow you to do that. The suspension and traction control will keep you stable when dodging the occasional idiot driver. The fold flat rear seats are awesome and the sliding doors have power windows! Great Van! Cant wait to see the next set of improvements!

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  no fuel econemy - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By larry - May 17 - 5:50 am

  The van is reliable and easy to drive. The comfort level is very good. In the first 25,000 miles I had to replace both brakes and tires. My biggest complaint is that gas mileage doesnt exist. Highway is fine at about 19/20 to the gallon but city is around 10 and they can do nothing about it.

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  awful - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By fict - May 13 - 11:20 pm

  we bought this car with 28k miles in the hopes of a low mileage car which would provide a solid, low maintenance vehicle for a number of years. mea culpa - you get what you pay for. from the brakes (calipers, rotors, pads) to the wiring system (complete shorts in the auto locks and windows) to the suspension, i believe its mostly assembled out of hobby wire and aluminum foil.

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  Super minivan - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Monica Valentine - May 8 - 1:43 am

  I had a Sienna which was stolen and gave me problems and a few big repairs. This Sedona is nicer, faster, more features and has a better warranty. I have a fully loaded model and its always a pleasure to drive. Kia is not messing around and this van will steal a lot of Honda and Toyota sales. After my friend saw and drove my Sedona he ran out and bought one for his family and dumped his SUV!