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 my KIA - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By hc - December 2 - 4:36 am

  My passanger doors are difficult to open for children & tend to stick. And a few big blind spots because of the rear head rests...however I love to drive my KIA I traded it in from a Voyager & the POWER is awesome! I got the cloth seats, didnt want the leather, but got every other option including the sun roof..the seats are comfortable, the sound system is as my 8yr old says AWESOME. I would buy another tomorrow if I could.

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  SEDONA SATISFACTION - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By MITTOWE - November 29 - 10:00 am

  I AM SATISFIED WITH CAR AND THE VALUE PRICE.

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  Dont Buy One! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Palmtree - November 29 - 10:00 am

  Picked up EX on Wed. Heater defective. On Sat., they say bring back on Mon. Go back on Mon. (after a very chilly 5 days), and get rental car. Finally call me on Thurs. to say its fixed and they had to order a part and take apart my whole dashboard. Pick up my car again on Thursday. Immediately notice a 4-inch knife gash in passenger door upholstery. Show manager. Promises to replace entire door panel today. So now I have a brand new, 10-day old car that Ive gotten to drive only 3 days. AND, theyre never the same once they start taking apart the dash, door etc. Exceptionally poor service given by Fette Ford -- during both sales process/repair.

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  Increasingly Disappointed - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By fivefold - November 29 - 10:00 am

  At first I would have written reccomending this minivan like others, but at 15,000 miles I cant. It has been in service many times for many different reasons. To be honest it sounds like a rattle trap. The seats rattle, the doors rattle, the back gate rattles. For the last serveral months the cruise has not consistently worked. They cant find the problem! The vans largest draw card is a lot of high-end features for reasonable money. And yet, you have to be able to enjoy those features while driving down the road. Would I buy the car again? Positively no. Be willing to give up long term integrity to fancy features.

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  Why pay more ... for less..... - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By MCA - November 24 - 10:00 am

  So far, we love our Sedona. A few weeks after purchasing the van we took the family (5 of us) on a road trip. The Sedona was comfortable, roomy, had plenty of power, and provided a smooth ride. Before purchasing the Sedona, I researched a number of other vans. Liked the MPV, but it cost more. Looked at a Windstar, but now think it is all hype. My opinion is for value and features you cant beat the Sedona. Hopefully, Ill have the same opinion in 5 years.... but isnt that true with any new vehicle purchase?

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  Not worth the problems - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By whizza99 - November 13 - 1:43 pm

  Well, the starter going within the first week should of been the sign. 5 yrs, 80,000 miles later I have 3 broken handles they will not fix for less than $500 apiece, the turning radius is like a box or truck, not like all the caravans Ive had. I gave up 18" in the grand caravan and you really do miss it. I have gone thru numerous tires, so put GOOD tires on it. Gas mileage stinks! I bought it for the warranty but after 5 yrs the bumper to bumper is gone and now all the little problems are creeping up. Back seat doesnt slide, etc.

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  Its been a pleasure - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By tina - November 10 - 1:06 am

  I purchased my Sedona w/ only 12 miles on it. Now it has over 67,000 miles. Ive taken it on many road trips and have been disappointed w/ the storage space. If youre thinking of this van,definitely opt for the luggage rack. But i have to give it credit for reliability. Ive maintained the oil changes like the dealership suggested and i have NEVER had any problems in the overall performance. The gas mileage could be better but that goes for most vehicles w/ 6 cylinders.

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  Best van ever - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By david/susan - November 4 - 10:00 am

  I have owned several mini vans-all GMs.The Kia is way above these in quality and price. The van is exceptional in design in and out and I look forward to spending several years driving this vehicle. Handling and fit/finish are excellent. Gas mileage is so so. Probably because the van is so heavy and has earned 5 stars across the board for crash worthiness!

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  Thinking of Buying the Sedona? - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Frost - November 4 - 10:00 am

  Just a review from someone who has heard a lot of bad stuff about KIA. Check out the warranty.If it lasts longer than how long youre going to pay on it.we compared this 2002 Sedona to the Dodge or Chrysler mini-van in its class, among others...and you just cant beat it. The price,the interior. It looks good it feels good to drive. Although I was dissapionted that I had to pay extra for ABS . I have to rate my overall experience ,So far so Good! Ive heard lots about the sephias and the sportages having really bad luck in 1999. But I encourage you to look at the current years product, youll be impressed.

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  Now that its fixed, I love it - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By irritatrux - November 2 - 8:56 pm

  I had trouble with my Sedona when new; the battery kept draining. It took the dealer awhile to find the problem (a computer module wasnt connected tightly), but they were so helpful, and KIA even called me a couple times during the repair without me asking for their help. I was impressed with their customer service; it made an annoying issue easier to deal with. Once that little problem was solved, the van has been a dream. I took it on an 1800 mile trip last month, and it performed flawlessly and was so relaxing to drive. Normally that kind of trip tires me out, but the driving comfort is so great that I was able to drive lots further in a day than normal. I cant wait to take more trips.