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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  Love this car - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By tomtom - May 7 - 2:00 am

  great in all areas

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  A Home Run! - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Robert B - May 1 - 2:13 am

  After seeing Kias serious entry into the luxury minivan market, the also excellent Honda and Toyota models are starting to look old. The Kia is big, comfortable, tight, powerful and fast with FWD and traction control. From the 3 power doors to the amazing 13 speaker Infinity DVD system with 7.1 surround sound, this car really provides a great amount of comfort in a utility oriented design. Were getting close to 24 MPG on the highway and its not broken in yet. 2 year old baby loves the ride. Safety ratings top the list. Driving this in heavy rain, this car feels just as secure as my Subaru Tribeca. Kia looked at the market and cherry picked the best from all others to make a great van!

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  Dont buy this car - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Melissa - April 23 - 7:30 am

  I learned a valuable lesson about researching cars after owning this one. Safety without reliability is not safe. The alternator went out at 36k. I lost the ability to steer or accelerate on the freeway at night. The warning lights came on about 1 minute before the car failed so I was in the exit lane and luckily rolled straight off the freeway exit without power, and rolled into a gas station. Sure the warranty covered the repair and Kia towed it for free-but I was almost killed along with my unborn child, 2 other children and the babysitter in the car. Now the sliding doors wont open from inside, the AC compressor/clutch failed, electrical problems abound, and I cant give it away.

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  I would never buy a Kia again! - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Arnold Echols - April 23 - 5:56 am

  Interior is entirely too small for a 63" man, or even average folks. I dont even fit in the drivers seat comfortably. The gas mileage stinks, not as advertised. The passenger seat is too close to dash also. Bucket seats are much too small and not at all comfortable for any length of time. It is very difficult to turn around. The headrests in the rear are in the drivers vision and you cannot see clearly around them. Hope we never have to travel very far in it, as it gets miserable to sit in the seats very long at all. But the biggest problem is the lousy gas mileage. We live in the country, and drive almost all highway miles, and cant get above 17 mph. I cant wait to get rid of it!

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  works for me - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By steve - April 13 - 11:10 am

  i use the Sedona for work, loaded with tools and parts. It has performed very well. city/hwy combined mileage is always above 20mpg. It can be fun to drive for a minivan and acceleration is exceptional for a vehicle this size. I have had a couple problems, turn signal stopped working; but seems to have fixed itself. my biggest problem has been finding a competent dealer and the prices they charge are comparable to infinity(for 60k service) I purchased the van because my wife has a 2003 optima which has been problem free. And the KIA was the last car I wanted her to buy. oh yes, plan to keep it as resale is nonexistent.

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  Works For Me - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By MegaSarge - April 6 - 7:00 pm

  Very nice highway and city driver. Just turned 70K, no major problems, but Ill need the major service, timing belt, etc and they hook you for that (who doesnt?). Hankook tires were replaced at 45K and I had it aligned and tires balanced. Luggage rack is actually useful. Easy entrance and exit, solid doors, solid, quiet car.

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  Dont buy a used one - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Moore - April 5 - 1:16 pm

  The warranty is not honored if you are NOT the original owner. They have have problems with steering due to winter salt but no recall. Also a problem with the cooling hoses to the rear and again no recall. They have been aware of these but will NOT cover the expense since we were not the first owner even though we bought it with 48,000 miles. We now have a car with 78,000 miles and NO warranty.

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  We walked away from a high speed crash - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Tina - April 4 - 9:43 pm

  I do not normally write reviews but I do read them all the time for any item that I consider buying. I thought it was time that I wrote one. Husband, 2 kids and I (3 months pregnant) were hit from behind in our Kia Sedona by an SUV. We were on a highway traveling about 65 mph and were hit by a driver who fell asleep at the wheel, had accelerator to the floor and hit us at 80 mph plus. Kids were in the middle row and not a scratch or bump on them. Third row was intact and untouched. If my kids had been in a regular car, they would have been seriously injured or killed. Keep your family safe and put them in a minivan or SUV. Thanks Kia. That 5 star safety rating saved our lives.

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  From Behemoth to Best - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By one "l" - April 4 - 7:46 pm

  I drove a Chevy conversion van and wanted to downsize so searched via internet. Unfortunately, my perfect minivan didnt mesh with my pocketbook. Put off decision until last July I drove by a Kia dealer and saw the Sedona, checked it out and fell in love. It had everything I wanted at an affordable price. We bought it the next day without knowing much about it, but at least I knew what I was comparing it to. After putting 10,000 miles on it to date, I still love it.

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  Never again - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By kitcar04 - April 3 - 3:31 pm

  Bought brand new didnt matter the problems began at the very start with brake problems and went on from there...Problems made worst by the worst customer service Ive ever experienced. With thousands of dollars spent and car still stalling we were done. You want a reliable car get a Honda. Thats what we drive. Excellent customer service every time.