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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  Great buy for your money - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By Elle - April 28 - 12:43 am

  Were expecting twins next month and couldnt avoid the inevitable minivan purchase (2 carseats in a Sentra just wouldnt cut it!). My father was the one who steered me towards a Kia based soley on its reviews and warranty. I test drove all the major brands and to my surprise, the Kia stood far out in my opinion. You get a LOT for your money (especially with the rebates) and its actually comfortable to drive. Some of the vans out there seriously make you feel like youre driving a bus! I would recommend the Kia Sedona to anyone looking for a minivan, even recommend the brand to anyone just looking for a car! I was always a Nissan person, but Im glad I opened my eyes to Kia.

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  KIA Sedona is so terrible car. - 2015 Kia Sedona
  By Dijei - April 24 - 1:11 pm

  KIA Sedona is so terrible car. Because I experienced lots of car problems and poor service about KIA Sedona and car agency in only one year after buying the car. For example, several times water leaking of sun roof, Front windows projecting rubber, Flat tire, Failure of auto alarm, etc.. The worst thing is terrible service of KIA car agency and Support Center. They didnt take care of customers inconvenience and discomport due to their car, not at all. And they didnt response customers problem. Their service is so terrible. So I would not buy KIA car in the future any more.

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  Love it so far! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By jamieay - April 23 - 10:00 am

  Paid $18,400 after rebates for my new 2003 Kia Sedona EX. Traded in a very problematic 1999 Ford Windstar. If youre looking for a new van, PLEASE go look into the Kia Sedona. Its 95% of a Sienna or Odyssey at 70% of the cost. Very comfortable, *excellent* fit and finish, good sound system, and a much more comfortable driving position than my old Windstar. To get an Odyssey at the same price, it would have to be 3 years old and have 50,000 miles on it. Transmission is extremely smooth. Each seat has its own AC/heat vents that can be directed and closed. BTW - My drivers seat also squeaked - fixed it with a thin coat of grease on the seat tracks.

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  Economical surprise - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Farm Boy - April 22 - 11:33 am

  I have had reliability and economy problems with Ford, GM, & Chrysler. Honda and Toyota are extremely expensive. Decided to try something else. We decied to go out on a limb and try the Kia. What a surprise! We love it. Good economy, handles great and more reliable than other brands I have owned. The first vehicle I have owned in years that I can drive all day and not get a back ache. And all this for $8,000 less than a comparablly equiped Honda or Toyota. I would recommend it to anyone. Any one interested in a minivan should give the Sedona a good hard look. They are great vans.

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  DONT BUY!!! - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By fedup - April 18 - 3:30 pm

  I have a 2005 Sedona. Never again will I buy a Kia. The brakes have to be replaced about every 5 months. The brake line has had to be replaced. The alternator had to be replaced. The front end will not stay lined up. The headlights have to be replaced about every 3 months. The fan control for the AC and the heat doesnt work anymore. Its hard to steer when its cold outside. All of this under 100,000 miles. Kia will not help to fix the problems. Had some scratches on it when we bought it. Kia would not fix. This has got to be the worst vehicle I have ever owed. Trade in value on it is only 2,000. Dealers will not trade with me. Cant even give the vehicle away. Dont waste your money!!

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  Move over Honda! - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Keep it Affordable - April 17 - 2:00 am

  The features that you get for the money cannot be beaten! Great ride and very family friendly. Smooth solid and quiet ride which offers many extra features at no cost.All in all go for it you wont be disappointed.

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  sedona mini van - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By boschalona - April 17 - 2:00 am

  we have only had this van 8 days. but what little time we have . it seems like a very good choice.

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  Great Van - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By TPoston - April 8 - 6:23 pm

  We drove a rented Sedona in 2008 to Florida. Good van for long trips and we were impressed. We kept waiting for a 2008 with a few miles on it to become available. Finally did in May and we snatched it up. Bought the van for a little over $15K with 11K miles on it. Pick up is as good as my 2006 Monte Carlo. Great ride and comfortable as I am 53". The only complaint is no MP3 jack and the stereo really needs to be better quality. Got used to RDS display on the Monte Carlo and miss it. Other than the radio, its been great for hauling my german shepherd and my toddler granddaughter. Also theres no outside temperature guage which i find odd.

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  Great for the price and tows a boat too. - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By ronwass - March 30 - 1:10 pm

  Let me first state that I LOVE minivans. This one is very comfortable except for one thing: The gas pedal is too close to the drivers seat. We take it on vacations with 5 people to the beach, etc, and you cant beat a minivan for that. I got the towing package for a bike rack, and, surprisingly, two years later I bought a boat which the car tows nicely. Reliability has been excellent. I have had two warranty repairs, and had the brakes done once. The car is heavy and handles as such. MPG is bad of course, but I paid literally half what I would have paid for a similar Honda in purchase price, so Im still ahead on gas. Good luck.

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  Transmission problem - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By PhilP - March 27 - 3:33 am

  Love the vehicle but have started having transmission/starting problems. Would not start in Park, dealer adjusted cable, now having trouble getting into Drive. Maybe dealer tech needs training. I am bringing it back to get fixed again. Only have 17K miles. Also drivers side passenger door sometimes will stay in open position and sometimes not, dealer lubricated but still is intermittent. I think it may be that the mechanics need more training.