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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  excellent - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Debra D. Anderson - June 6 - 3:06 pm

  This was one of the most important decisons I had to make since moving to the Virginia area. This turned out to be the best thing I did. The ride is comfortable, the gas mileage is great and I am recommending the vehicle to others.

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  Sad times for KIA service - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By BAD SERVICE - June 5 - 10:10 am

  The KIA van runs great, however it has been in the shop for 2 months due to an airbag light that was on. The dash and components were completely disassembled and a new wiring harness was installed. I picked up the car and the problems was still not fixed; the technician didnt even bother to test drive the van. I was really disappointed at the poor quality of work from the service dept. at Folsom Lake Kia. Now the shift mechanism and the interior lights wont work correctly. Kia corporate has been monitoring our situation, these guys seem to care very much how Im treated and have offered to help. Ill report back later when we find out how we will be compensated for our loss of use.

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  David vs. Goliath - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Vango - June 3 - 5:03 pm

  Any moron who is willing to pay 15K+ or more for a comparable equipped Dodge, Ford, Pontiac, or Honda should deserve to pay for the name. David beats Goliath - no contest.

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  Good for the price - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Cjreyeshsd - May 25 - 2:00 am

  Has a very powerful engine. The 5 Speed Transmission is Great. In General is Very Responsive. Sound System is decent. Nice Interior distribution. The Fuel economy is the only thing is disappointing, this the heviest minivan of all, but after this vehicle is one of the top ranks in this category. The finishings have great quality

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  Dead battery - 2010 Kia Sedona
  By Lisa Pratt - May 22 - 2:00 am

  My company purchased a 2010 Sedona. When we keep the emergency flashers on for more then 10 minutes without the van running our battery goes dead. I brought it back to the dealer and they found nothing wrong. A battery does not go dead within that short period of time. The KIA company have done nothing to resolve this problem after numerous complaints, I would not recommend any one to purchase a KIA even though it is the sister to the Hyundai family. Can you just imagine being on the side of the highway and your vehicle breaks down, you keep your flashers on and when the tow truck arrives, he has to jump your battery and fix a flat at the same time. Buyer Beware!

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  My Sedona - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By tarndt - May 20 - 8:40 am

  I really like my Sedona. It drives well and is always dependable. If I could change anything about it, I would only change the room between the two middle seats. It is difficult to get between them to strap the other kids in the back seats or for adults to climb all the way back there to sit. I would also increase the mpg it gets. I think that a minivan should get great gas mileage as it is a family vehicle and most families are on tight budgets.

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  Great Ride for the money - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By jodi - May 17 - 10:00 am

  Compared to other mini vans out there, the Kia Sedona is a lot of van for the money. There are a lot of items that come standard in the kia, such as the rear air and power locks, that is optional in many other mini vans. I was really surprised at how well the van travels on the highway. It was a smoothe fast ride. The breaks have squeaked from the first few months. We had them checked and we were told that it is nothing to worry about. The trunk is a little hard to pull down. Other than that, we are very pleased.

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  Great People mover - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By acer - May 14 - 12:36 am

  Owned 2 Ford Windstars, tired of constant mechanical issues. Did a lot of research before i brought the Sedona EX. After 7 months of owning the Sedona Ex best can still say its a great vehicle. Sedona is extremely solid, we have the ex w/ leather and entertainment pack.interior materials are of good quality, extremely roomy, great storage. I love the sunroof, and side windows that go down. Transmission is very smooth. Gas mileage has been combined 22 mpg. I love driving this van, feels like your driving a luxury vehicle. Has a lot of pep for a minivan (245 HP).Quality is right up there with Honda and Toy. You wont be disappointed. Great warranty, highest safety ratings, great price.

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  beware...................... - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By bb - May 13 - 9:53 am

  Sedona has most of the equipment that is expected. Can haul a lot of stuff and has a lot of room. However, it has a vibration in the front end that makes this vehicle a big dissapointment. Tires have all been changed out however vibration remains. I think KIA needs to address issues like this unless they do not care if they retain customers.....BEWARE...JUST A HEADS UP..........

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  No Complaints.. - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Larry Wygant - May 10 - 4:30 am

  Have driven 520125 miles since May 03 , 11 round trips to Florida ,to help in laws clean up after hurricanes.Mileage 19.5 to 22.2 traveling 70 to80 MPH all day long ,hauled trailer back to Indiana in January loaded at 3000 pounds, mileage 17 to 18 in Fla,, when into cold weather in Indiana, at 5 above mileage down to 14 to 15 at 70 Mph all day long . Van is very dependable ,great at high speed when dodging truck tire treads on I 75 ,the handeling of this Sedona is EXCELLENT rides and drives so very smooth Great Machine .