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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  Kia Sedona - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By VIGIL6617 - April 24 - 10:00 am

  This is my third minivan, a geat value for money if you dont drive a lot of miles. Gas mileage is never been over 16 MPG, even if I drive all freeway. My Toyota Previa with a supercharge engine got better mileage than this van. Little trunk space. If I have to do it again, I would probably think twice about buying the current model. The van needs to go on a diet at 4900 pounds, its to heavy. causing the gas mileage problem. Other than the gas mileage and little trunk space its a good van.

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  Best van out there! - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By guitarrista - April 21 - 6:12 am

  We bought our Sedona in 2002 and have put over 120,000 miles on it. It is very reliable and comfortable. We get about 14 mpg in city and 24 on hiway. 2002 was the first year for this car, and ours was built early in the year. We read the reviews before we bought, and knew that certain things would break, and they did, and they were covered by the warranty. Kia put stronger versions of those parts on vans sold later in the year, so if youre buying a used one, look at the MFG date and get one built later in the year. Example: transmission and engine mounts, and sun roof cable. When ours broke, we discovered they had changed the spec to different, stronger ones.

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  Best technology options on the market. - 2015 Kia Sedona
  By Max - April 18 - 10:41 am

  I have cooled seats, around view monitor and adaptive cruise control, touch screen navigation that i actually use (unlike my Mercedess) for $45k No other minivans have this options available. Own for 15 month, 12k miles. Nothing went wrong ever. I wish i could see climate temp all the time.

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  AWESOME!! - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Dustin - April 17 - 3:33 pm

  I would recommend a Kia Sedona to any family that needs the room. All the power and style of a car put into a van. 10 thumbs up!

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  Second time around - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By PapaDon - April 16 - 4:50 pm

  This is a long-term followup on our second Sedona. We rode the first for over 55000 miles until it was totaled in a freak accident at the dealership (broadsided by a runaway towtruck while in for an oil change). Our first sedona was bought right off the truck shortly after introduction, the second one sold in Tulsa. In its 55000 mile life, had to replace the radio (failed within two weeks), fix the lumbar support switch (wires were a tad too short - did it myself) and thats it. Period. Had absolutely no hesitation in buying another one (dealer made us the offer we couldnt refuse). Have had NO warranty issues with this one either, now with about 33000 on the clock.

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  Kia only has one problem - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Kathy - April 9 - 10:00 am

  The value of this van exceeds any expectation. Could not believe, after spending nearly $28,000 plus on Chrysler LE Van. This was totally loaded; moon roof, cd player, air all around from front to back; cup holders and storage bins everywhere, comfort of leather, electric locks, electric side view mirrors, V6. Gas probably 13-15 mpg - a little disappointed - but the worst exterior paint job in the world. Every time your keys hit the paint opening and closing any of the door it scratches noticably. But, what are you going to do. Hope for a decent trade in value. Have to wait and see.

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  You could pay more... - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By JMehling - April 7 - 9:20 pm

  Weve had this van for almost 3 years and 65,000 miles and its been everything that we expected. We got all the bells and whistles and theyve been worth every penny. I like fast vehicles and I am never left wanting for passing power. The manual control of the transmission is great, and eases the frustration that comes from the sometimes slow downshifts in full automatic mode. I feel very secure with the handling and think the steering is fine, too. I feel fuel economy is average for a vehicle of this weight and engine size. It doesnt have the cylinder deactivation like the Odyssey, but the extra money youd spend to buy that vehicle will fill up your Sedona many times over.

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  Kia Sedona - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By OkieRed - April 6 - 2:00 am

  Ive been happy with the sedona overall. It served its purpose with small children. However, the gas mileage has always stunk and the trade- in value is difinately something to consider. Were about $6000 upside- down and it only has 16,000 miles in 2 years. For a mini-van, probably a good buy if you intend to keep it forever.

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  A Keeper! - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Mike - March 31 - 1:10 pm

  We only had our Sedona for a couple of weeks, but so far we love it. Still breaking it in, so hopefully mileage will improve. This van rides smooth and just feels put together well, I mean nothing rattles. I love how comfortable the seats are and the all around visibility. Kias package cant be beat. We traded in my wifes Sorento so on top of the 0% financing for 60 months we got the owners loyalty cash back! Beat that! Honda or Toyota. Dont get me wrong, I love my Matrix, but Im actually letting my wife drive it to work just so I get to keep the Sedona to drive it around with my kid. Cant wait for a long road trip.

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  Buy a Sedona or give your money away... - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Anthony Sedonafan - March 30 - 10:00 am

  I waited 3 months before review. Thoroughly pleased. Power is incredible. Gas mileage could be better, but people must understand the box-frame, which will be there to save your lives if you need it - not ound elsewhere & accounts for the weight. Great ride, got everything save for leather & spoiler. $22K even. Pay $25K+ for Honda/Toyota/Ford? Why? More stylish in biased opinion than all others cept for maybe the Grand Caravan (at $30K+). Nice wheels. Super body styling. Nice dark privacy glass. Big seats - easy removal. Obscene warranty! GREAT roadside service used once - I missed that one of the boys left the light on and the battery drained.