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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  Just bought one on the 26 of Dec 04 - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Paul - January 16 - 1:33 am

  Just bought this ex model on the 26 of dec 04 and am so far impressed with it. The only thing I would recommend is that ABS should be standard equip. on all models, not sold as an option. So far very impressed with the entertainment system. This is our first minivan, so my wife and I really dont know what to expect in ride and comfort. I have noticed that the ride is stiff kinda like a truck, but that is o.k. for the money we paid we did get alot for what we have. Cant tell you much about the gas mileage cause we are still on the 1st tank of free gas. Driving around in D.C. traffic i am sure i will not get what the manf. recommend though. Enjoy the van. great purchase.

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  Interior Needs Do Over - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Kia Mom - December 30 - 6:23 pm

  My new Sedona is a great car for the money. So far, much more reliable than my 2000 AWD Caravan. But the interior needs a little more thought in the layout. It is a great handling car and much more fuel efficient.

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  You get a lot of bag for the buck. - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Ron Harris - December 27 - 2:00 am

  We looked at the economy Chevy minivan and the LX Honda Odyssey and we still could not afford to buy them (even with a GM family discount). We needed a vehicle that could carry two children and ALL the stuff that goes with them. Once I read about the Sedonas crash testing and that it was affordable we decided to test drive one. It was perfect for what we needed. Finally, a company out there realized that there is a market for a affordable minivan for budget minded families. Thank you KIA.

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  Bought new in 02 and now have 96k miles - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By tomerikac - December 26 - 10:14 pm

  Needed a mini-van with 2nd baby on the way so traded in my old "00 Sportage, found a great deal, and after 8 years only problems were the alternator (replaced under warranty) and air conditioner, repaired for about $400. Unfortunately, we have continually had problems with the air bag light. One Kia mechanic even told me "Dont worry about the light, it works fine!" Overall theough, we are pleased. Average about 20mpg highway/city driving. Lately Ive noticed a "rough" shift between 3 and 4 gear and am thinking Id better get it in before the warranty expires.

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  More bang for a buck - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Al L - December 15 - 10:00 am

  The car run fine, I like it so far. I got a basic LX w/o ABS, roof rack and CD but for less than $16K, I cant even get a 4 cyl camry. Quality is pretty good, the only thing I would like to complain is the space behind 3rd seat is too small, otherwise it is great. The only problem so far is my first 600 miles of the car, about 360 miles is to and from dealer, not the cars problem, but the dealers problem, first, they cant install alarm cos it was too late, 2nd, they install a cheaper alarm, 3rd finally they installed the right alarm but have to leave the car their for whole day but I got a loaner. BTW, I am about 60mi one way to go there.

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  so far, so good - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By new_he - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I bought mine with the leather, moonroof, homelink and ABS options for 22,400. I probably could have got it for less if I had started the negotiating at a lower price, because the salesman sold it to me almost right away. The NBC Dateline report on the Insurance Institutes crash test results are a little troubling, but I believe those are only used to test the cost of the damage to the car, and do not conflict with the governments 5-star crash ratings. But I am worried that the report will result in increased insurance costs. Friends and neighbors who have looked at it have all been impressed. I would recommend it to anyone looking to buy a van

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  Very Happy With Purchase - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By like_it! - November 3 - 12:36 am

  Weve been driving our new vehicle for over a month. I am very pleased with our new 08 Kia Sedona EX (has power doors/power gate). We got a good deal, I think, being a 2008 model (paid 18.7K). It has been working great, drives well, works perfectly. It gets decent highway gas mileage (23.5 or better hwy). The middle seats are so comfortable; much better than stow-n-go seats. I love that the middle windows roll down, but I guess most minivans have that feature these days. CON: The drivers seat arm rest is too low. I can tilt the arm rest up and use it, but I wish I could actually raise the whole arm rest. Same with the front passenger arm rest.

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  Great van! - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Kitagrl - October 29 - 10:00 am

  Have had this van for a couple months now and have been pleased...no problems, drives nice...roomy and easy to afford the monthly payments!

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  Great buy!! - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By soccervb - October 29 - 10:00 am

  After reseaching the Sedona using Edmonds.com, I came to the conclusion that this would be a great minivan for our family. All that was needed was to see the vehicle, test drive and work out the numbers. The vehicle has more features than we could have ever bargained for and we worked the price to fall right where I wanted it. If you havent checked this vehicle out yet, your missing on the best buy for your $$$. MPG may be a little low, but the few miles that we dont get per gallon wont be missed. Oh, dont forget that this vehicle has the 5 star rating for crash tests.

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  KIA Not Loyal to Me - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By jarhead6591 - October 12 - 2:14 am

  We bought a brand new 08 KIA Sedona EX, with all the bells and whistles (leather heated seats, adjustable pedals, sunroof, DVD system, etc., except navigation). We had an 06 Sedona LX that we liked and I figured wed go for top of the line. Dont get me wrong, we love our EX, but will never buy another KAI again; no trade-in or resale value. We average 20 miles to the gallon, combined city and highway, but wanted something better on the gas. We checked into the KIA Sorento, really liked it and it gets excellent gas mileage with the 2.4L GDI engine. When I asked what I could get for a trade-in, I was told $13,000. My best advice...check resale values before you buy your next new car.