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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  I love my KIA in every way but one.... - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By liz - November 23 - 8:46 am

  I wish it were a little bit larger. We have three children so a car would not work for us. A larger suv is not very cost effective when it comes to price or fueling up and running errands. So for something that has 7 passenger seating, is economical in price, and gas cost, the Kia Sedona is perfect! I only long for a place to pack a stroller, diaper bag, groceries (enough for a family of 5), and of course the kids!

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  safety - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Margie - November 23 - 2:00 am

  I only had my Kia for 2-1/2 weeks before I was involved in a head on collision with another driver. My car had extensive front end damage, it and has been totalled. It kept me and 3 kids safe, in spite of the fact that we were hit head on and shoved into two mailboxes that were cemented into the ground. I truly feel that our beautiful Kia saved our lives. The car is torn up, but it sure did its job!

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  Good Value - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By CLarsen - November 23 - 2:00 am

  The car drives well. I love the leather seats. The front console that folds down is wonderful. I wish the clock was positioned on the radio. It is akward to look up. This is our 2nd mini van and the first one with the 2nd sliding door. With 2 children in car seats it is vital. Difficult to get back to the rear seats. Back seats arent the easiest to remove. I like our Quest where the back seat can be slide up against the drivers seats better. Ive been getting a strange electronic sound. At first I thought it was the speakers, but Ive noticed it with the radio off.

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  JCOLE22370 - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By jcole22370 - November 15 - 3:00 am

  Very roomy, easy to maneuver. Seats are very easy to take out and are on rollers if you cannot carry them. Gas mileage could be better but is ok, seats are very comfortable with plenty of leg room for everyone.

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  Kia Sedona Rocks - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By DwayneAB - November 11 - 10:00 am

  Excelent Ride crisp handling ! Awsome features For $$$

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  i saved 8,000 dollars of a dodge - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By jlaubin - November 7 - 5:36 pm

  my kia sedona does not burn rice and kimchi,it really burns gasoline just like the cavavan i traded in.Get up and go is excellent.smooth transmission.i like the shift on the console.it even has a full size spare,cd system is ok it needs a subwoofer..great deal for the money..this is a keeper car not a lease

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  SOLID & ZIPPY FAMILY RIDE - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By Holly - October 27 - 8:43 pm

  I was the happy driver of a 06 Dodge Grand Caravan that was hit. I was torn on what to replace it with. Narrowed it down to an 08 Dodge Grand and the 08 Kia Sedona. Im glad we chose the Kia. It has been a good, sturdy vehicle. We have five children and do a lot of "hauling" and have been very pleased with its performance. One thing has gone wrong so far. (Pedal accelerator sensor went out - covered by warranty. No questions asked.) It has plenty of power. Decent gas milage. Comfy seats. Nice controls. Three minor complaints: 1. Front seat does not quite go back far enough. 1" more would be great. (Hubby & I are both 510") 2. Stereo sounds like it is AM 3. Shimmy when breaking.

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  Had better - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By richard - October 22 - 3:33 am

  The vehicle is fine for hauling kids around and on trips. It has a very nice interior - leather seats, moon roof, stereo system and more compartments to stow stuff than a chipmunks cheeks. I do not like the overall reliability of the vehicle and subsequent dealer service. I feel that for a vehicle with less than 40k miles on it we have had too many problems. Also the dealer service departments seem to be lost when fixing this vehicle sometimes.

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  Love this van BUT - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Billyio - October 19 - 2:00 am

  ok just one gripe I am 59" tall and the roof seems to come down on my hear if I didnt get the sun roof it might have been a better deal but the seat sits to close to the roof for me.. other than that. I love the cost and with the exception of the timeing belt that must be changed at 60,000 miles all is well wiit owning the machine. Thanks Kia the same EX in an American brand would have cost me about 14K more dollars, well see if I get a great trade in deal in 6 years BTW, I have a 2002 Sedona

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  Pleasantly surprised - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By VP - October 17 - 10:00 am

  My Sedona has 10,200 miles on it and it is still as smooth and quiet as brand new. I never really liked minivans, but as my kids are getting bigger, the room is needed. Im glad I purchased this vehicle because it drives well and I can haul lots of goods.I think in anothr couple of years and a few improvements, the Sedona is going to set the standard for minivans.