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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  Less Is More - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By tuckerm83 - May 24 - 10:00 am

  Weve had our 2004 Sedonna for 3 months, and couldnt be happier! Its by far the most van for the money out there! We originally started looking for used vans (Grand Caravan or something along those lines), but found that a used one in good condition was about the same as the Sedonna new. It handles suprisingly well, has good pickup , and is very comfortable. If youre going to get a Sedonna, getting the EX model with is definitely worth the extra $$$!

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  One of the best autos I have ever owned - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By Dave - May 23 - 2:58 am

  I bought this used in 2008 it had 47000 mile on it. The dealer gave me a lifetime repair on drive train I also bought a extended service plan. Fuel millage is 25 in town 36 highway performance is unbelievable. I own a garage at 98000 I had to replace a belt idler and front struts and the extended repair plan paid me to repair it. We now have 177000 on it and I have replace the spark plugs and did many oil change and trans service 4 sets of brakes and tires I change at 40,000 so my wife is safe. This is the most trouble free auto I have ever had except for a Ford truck I just sole at 730,000 mile and a 86 Ford truck I put 3 engine in and it is now 1.5 million miles it has been used to tow race trucks since I bought it in 1996. This KIA is right there with these 2 trucks except the Kia is a lot better on fuel and ride witch it should be. When this one were out we will buy another Kia now doubt.

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  Plenty of room - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By bigbootiejudy - May 21 - 2:46 pm

  My husband told me I could NOT have a KIA, I went ahead and test drove it and took it to his work. I showed it to him and he was surprised that it was a KIA. We bought it and love it. I traded in a 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan for this Sedona (more room). The only thing Ive had issues with is the side doors, sometimes they wont open all the way, but Ill get that fixed and itll be all good. I love this van and all my friends do too. Its great if you have children and like to travel, the rear seats fold ALL the way down. I personally think its better than my moms Montana. Check ya later, soccer moms.

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  Got 3 of them - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By SS454 - May 13 - 9:26 pm

  Only problem I see is with their so called alternators... they stink - to date I have had to replace one on all 3 of my Sedonas. Other than that for what I paid for them theyre great.

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  A great 1st Minivan - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By sirjohn113 - May 10 - 12:43 am

  This is a great first minivan. With our 2nd child arriving we had to get a bigger vehicle. We priced out other minivans & they all came up way out of our budget except this one. This van is affordable & within reach of the average family. With the standard features & price, made it a great buy! Its comfortable & our family loves it. Im sure you can find more refined & luxurious minivans out there, but for more money! It drives great, its fairly powerful, & comfortable on long trips. Plus the long warranty & 5 star rating from the NHTSA makes it an exceptional value. Dont rely too much on Consumer Reports or auto enthusiasts reviews, take the opinion from someone who owns one.

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  Functional but Unreliable - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Dan - May 4 - 10:20 pm

  We purchased this van for our expanding family in August 2006. I think after two years I can provide good insight. The van is comfortable and great on long trips, even with kids. It will swallow anything. The powertrain is smooth and powerful enough, if not all that responsive. Fuel economy is probably what can be expected from a 4500 lb minivan, I get 16 mpg in the city. The main problem is reliability. I have had trouble mainly with the brakes, an O2 sensor, and I had a fuel pump go out. I have warped two sets of front rotors in less than 25,000 miles, and Kia wont cover the second set under warranty even though they only lasted 10,000 miles. Beware of this issue on this van.

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  4 years and 74K miles later - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Docker - May 2 - 2:23 am

  Front brake rotors had to be replaced at 12K. I installed cross drilled and slotted rotors which made braking much better but it eats pads more. Rear brakes have been great and still have over 50% left on them. Power/acceleration is much better than expected even towing a 2K# trailer. Handling is great for a minivan. There seems to be a rust issue with the rear heater hose which I feel should be a recall because its a design flaw. This was a $375 repair OUCH. Just hit 74K miles and the O2 sensor is shot. This too I believe is a quality issue as I have never replaced this sensor on any other vehicle I have owned. I hope to get at least 300K out of this van and will keep you posted.

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  Great Fun for a minivan - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By DnK - April 29 - 10:43 am

  I bought the 2005 and only months later had to get another. I got the 2006 and have not been more pleased.

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  Yes to Kia! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Tawetze - April 29 - 10:00 am

  The best van weve ever bought especially in comparison to the Ford Windstar. So many features for a good price. I recommend the Kia Sedonna to anybody. You wont be dissatisfied.

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  exceptional buy - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By appassionata - April 29 - 10:00 am

  Wow, when our 2000 Chrysler Voyager began five and diming us after 40000 miles, we decided to cut our losses and trade in. The Kia was 5,000 LESS than our stripped Chrysler. I would recommend this car to ANYONE!!!