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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  very happy - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By mozoma - August 11 - 10:00 am

  Once we test drove the Kia we were hooked. The power is very sufficient and the fit and finish feels high quality. The size is very comfortable, with an extraordinary amount of legroom throughout. The standard feature list is wonderful (EX)especially for the price tag, amazing. I saved so much money by choosing the Kia that I got an aftermarket video system installed. The only hesitation we had was the fact that it was a Kia. We worried about the quality, but the great warranty was enough to offset those fears. Do I have any pride of ownership dilemmas with my Kia? Nope. I feel very proud of my smart purchase.

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  $21,000 sold us - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By jhs - August 7 - 10:00 am

  As I type this our 2002 EX is on the back of a wrecker to the dealer. Was at a fast-food and the radio went off, then the dash lights got dim, then the abs-engine-seat belt / other lights came on in dash. Turned off AC, dash lights got bright. Turn-off engine, would not start. This is the 4th time in 2 and half years this has occurred. AC compr.,lumbar switch, and radio have been replaced. Kia will charge the battery and find no problem. We will sell once out of shop.

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  Piece of Garbage - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Jonathan N - August 5 - 4:53 pm

  I bought my Sedona used two years ago and have had nothing but problems. After three months the check engine light came on and when I took it to the shop, the mechanic said the hose used to transfer the anti-freeze to the radiator was missing. He installed the hose but apparantly didnt check the rest of the van. Less than two years later my engine blew and its not covered. The warranty and the KIA name are a joke. I take excellent care of all of my vehicles and this one is plain old Korean garbage. I will never buy a KIA again.

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  Good Van... 100K look out! - 2011 Kia Sedona
  By Dan - August 2 - 5:50 am

  I have owned several Kia Sedonas and over all we have been satisfied. I even recommend them to friends that are in the market for a van. I like that the Kia has light truck tires on it. This isnt so good for a ride, but is great in a rural venue. It also lends to a more durable tire. I feel that Kia has kind of skimped on the interior of the van. It could have more options, but I think they were trying to keep the cost down and threw some of them out the window. There are several issues to be aware of... 1. the AC pump is prone to going out at least once in the vans life. And even when it is working properly, it makes a rather annoying noise. 2. Be prepared to replace the idler pulley at least once. I have owned 2 vans and this has happened to both. 3. The paint job is kinda cheep. The handles are starting to peel and stuff... could have done better. 4. The bucket seat arms are always coming lose and require me tightening them up once a month.... rather stupid. For my major complaint.... 5. at 100K miles be prepared for something to happen. Right now I am dealing with the oil pressure sensor that is leaking oil. The shop wanted $500 to replace it so I decided to tackle it my self. I think $500 for them to do it would have been a better deal. Wicked pain in the butt!! This being said, I hope to have it fixed and back on the road. I would like to run this bad boy till the wheels fall off. I think I would buy another Kia, because there are some good points, but just be aware of the 100k jinks.

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  Love this car, my 2nd one - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Ingrid - July 25 - 3:20 pm

  I love the Kia Sedona; great price, nice looking, lots of room for kids and big shopping trips. Great if you regularly have out of town guests with lots of luggage. Lots of bells and whistles without a high price. Very safe; unfortunately mine was involved in two accidents, neither my fault, and although 1 was a fatality accident I came through without a scratch. Some bumps and bruises but no major injuries. Even at 3 years old my first Sedona was worth more than we owed on the loan when the last accident totaled it. Love the safety feature of not being able to open the sliding door when the gas lid is open.

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  kia has got a gem in this one - 2015 Kia Sedona
  By Todd Mates - July 25 - 7:34 am

  this is the best minivan out there I test drove them all ive owned 5 vans and this is by far the best one yet

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  Beliver in Kia safety - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By TKA - July 24 - 3:36 am

  We purchased a 2004 Kia Sedona largely on price and figured with a 100K warranty if it was junk KIA would have to fix it. We found it to be a very reliable, stable and flexable vehicle that could do about anything we ask. On July 2, 2007 we were hit in the passenger side and pushed into a pole. The van was totalled but my wife and I walked away with only a broken nose and bruises. The fire and ambulance crew were afraid we would be dead when they saw the van. We believe in Kia safety and purchased a brand new one immediately. We love and trust our Kia minivan. I would recommend it to anyone.

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  2009 Kia Sedona - 2009 Kia Sedona
  By 09_kia_sedona - July 22 - 3:37 pm

  We bought our 2009 Sedona in 2011 - it had 30K on it. I LOVED that van. It was roomy, reliable, and had very few problems (the rubber on the sliding door came loose but that was covered by the warranty). The ONLY reasons we got rid of it were because of the high miles (115K) and its not the best with gas mileage. I would bet that van couldve easily lasted another 100K but I didnt want to deal with any age-related issues.

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  3 months ownership of used 2015 Sedona SX - 2015 Kia Sedona
  By Kee-ah - July 21 - 11:39 am

  On Purchase: Purchased used with 17k mileage, very happy with it, but will replace OEM (kumbo) tires as they are real noisy. No DRLs, mileage is 18-19 mpg in city, but great acceleration and brakes. Watch out when folding up/down 2nd row seats , seatbelt buckle can hinder seat movement to lock in seating position, found out the hard way and mashed the buckle mechanism not knowing it was the problem. Overall very pleased so far, last van was 2004 Odyssey. 3-month follow-up: Follow-up after 3 months - still very impressed with Sedona especially after replacing tires with Bridgestone equivalents (from Costco), now quiet ride. Transported two twin beds (mattress, box, headboards and rails) all in one trip after moving middle row seats all the way up. Noticed brakes were not as solid as I braked one time hard with seven passengers onboard and the van didnt quite stop as quick as I wanted as the brakes faded, no harm, but need to have dealer check it out. All in all, still impressed and pleased with my purchase, will see what my first check-up experience will be with the dealership is like at 30K service. 18-month followup: Still enjoying the Kia - no problems to report. I checked the brakes at the 30K service, dealership said no problems on brakes, but I know that they fade when I brake hard with full van of my 5-6 kids due to weight? I may replace brake pads soon and hope this remedies this problem. I really like using the Android Auto with the Kia big screen - works nicely with touchscreen. I would recommend Kia (this is my first one) and hope the reliability continues.

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  Best on the market - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Ed Lipinsky, Sr - July 7 - 11:13 am

  Ive owned a van before but sold it because of the miles on it and things started go wrong with it. Bought an SUV. Missed the van and decided to get another one. I looked at other manufacturers and someone at work told me about the Sedona. He told me to go and see one because he loves his. I did go to see one and brought it on the spot; they had to locate it. Best van for the money & no one can match the 10 year 100,000 mile warranty. I love to drive it. Its like driving in your living room recliner. It beats all the others for ride, comfort,and style. I have all the bells & whistles. I would recommend this van to any one looking to buy one, even if you never dreamed of owning a van, like I did.