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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  Worth the money - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Frugal Driver - October 11 - 9:20 pm

  Solid, dependable transportation. Used for carpool and as a construction material transporter (built on a truck chassis, takes the weight, more flexible than a small pick-up). Search parts suppliers on the web to avoid buying dealer parts, have yr. local mechanic install them, example, brake pads, rotors, struts. Change all fluids often to ensure vehicle longevity. Be prepared for front end issues as with all front wheel drive vehicles (see above comment re: parts). Now 90,000 miles, runs well, maintenance about $500/yr. all in. (Fluids and repairs). Seats are uncomfortable to install or remove. Belt tensioner requires tightening flywheel occasionally-cost=0

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  Battery dies due to factory draw - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By mandalyn - October 10 - 3:07 pm

  I own a 2007 Kia Sedona LX. I have had it since Nov if 2009. I m replacing my battery every six month due to the fact that the vehicle has a draw and has had since the day I bought it.. It was under warranty and I have taken it there complaining about this problem. I was told that when they test my charging system it has the normal factory draw. I took it there again and was told it is working fine and not to return. They made me feel crazy.I have been fighting this problem for 4 years. Upon talking to others with this same year they also have the same problem. KIA wont fix it, it is a factory problem. Dont buy a sedona

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  Good Value - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By CGreen - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Have put 1,200 miles on it so far - No REAL PROBLEMS - door hinge bolt came loose on the drivers door - 14mm - 10 seconds to fix myself. We were going to buy an Odyssey - looked at these for fun - drove it home ! if you are considering the honda - you owe it to yourself to check these out.

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  KIA Sedona 2003 - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By gatorn2 - October 9 - 10:00 am

  We were pleasantly surprised with our new KIA Sedona and were so excited that we took it 2 days after buying it on a long (500+ mile trip). Gas mileage on the highway was better than advertised and although we were leery of KIA and the Sedona being so new we were favorably impressed with its features comfort and handling.

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  dougs kia sedona review - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By sedonabroncofan - September 20 - 10:00 am

  my friend from denver was impressed when we wheeled into the airport with our new sedona. he raved about the ride, handling, and styling both inside and out. couldnt believe the price. excellent. figured it would be at least 5,000 more than we spent for it.

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  Kia Sedona at 5000 miles - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By micwalk - September 15 - 9:56 pm

  Weve recently passed the 5,000 mile mark with our "loaded" 2005 Sedona. Those miles included two trips over the 2004 holidays, totalling about 3,000 miles. So far Id say we have a somewhat less than average impression of our first KIA. Probably the biggest complaint we have is with the gas mileage. Our expectations - as set by the salesman- were 22+ mpg, Needless to say we were dismayed when we got a little over 18. The second area we found lacking in this vehicle is with the interior space. Utilizing the available space behind the third row seating reduces the "recline" feature and makes for a less comfortable trip. Overall, the features are nice but the controls are confusing.

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  Kia Sedona at 13,000 Miles - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By diskjokk - September 8 - 7:16 pm

  I never dreamed I would end up driving a minivan but as a single father of 3, there was no better choice of vehicle for me right now. So I bought a 2005 Kia Sedona LX. I just love this van! Everything from the exterior to the interior of this van was put together with care and understanding of a family on a budget. The van looks and rides good and I am pretty happy with the purchase. My only gripe about this vehicle is that its consumption of gas is HUGE! I can get about 22mpg on the highway. When on the road, there is minimal road noise and good visibility. Controls in the cabin are laid out in a logical and thoughtful manner. Factory CD/radio system isnt bad.

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  Trouble free luxury - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By likesoafar - September 7 - 2:00 am

  We purchased our two-tone Sedona EX in Spet. 2002 with leather, rear AC and sunroof. My wife has put 8K on it already and we have had zero problems. Very solid build quality an execellent transmission. The ONLY rattle comes from the third row seats on occassions. I had a friend who knows cars sit in it without seeing the name. He looked around, felt the materials and said, "Is this a new Acura minivan or something?"

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  Disappointed Purchaser - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By diddapointedpurchase - August 12 - 2:43 am

  Was very excited to have such an equipped minivan for the price, that is until it proved to be totally unreliable. Had to have service on it around 20 times (no really). Transmission replaced, AC components replaced several occasions and still does not function properly on long road trips (more than 100 miles). We only have 42,000 miles on it. My advice. Stay away from the 2002. Glad to see there are more positive reviews than negative and others are having better luck with their Sedona.

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  When I can start it, Ill review it - 2008 Kia Sedona
  By buggrrl - July 26 - 12:06 am

  My 2008 Sedona was purchased new less than a month ago and has fewer than 500 miles on it. It is in the shop now for the second time because the battery goes dead 4 times, requiring roadside assistance each time, and has been there for 5 days now without a diagnosis. I truly love driving this van, but am starting to think I made a huge mistake purchasing it. I havent even received my license plates yet and its been in the shop 6 days already! Thankfully, the dealer is a gem and doing everything they can to help me.