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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  Pay more for what, exactly? - 2011 Kia Sedona
  By Father of four - February 27 - 10:00 am

  Our 2011 Kia Sedona is our second minivan (we have four children aged seven and under). Traded in a VW Passat wagon, and it hurt to say goodbye to our last car with any "coolness" factor. Our other minivan is a Toyota Sienna. The Sedona is an improvement upon the Passat in every way. Far more fun to drive, with great pickup and handling. We added leather, which makes it look sharp. The interior gives the impression of being larger than the Siennas. And other than a higher sticker price, we are not sure what advantages the Sienna offers. The Kias mileage around town is somewhat less than advertised--around 16 mpg--but it is up to the Toyotas quality in every other way. Safe and reliable.

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  I like it - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Kia owner - February 23 - 2:00 am

  We bought our Kia brand new in May 2002 (EX model with leather, moonroof, rear spoiler, the works). The price was excellent!! The Van runs great and weve had very few problems which only includes the check engine light coming on twice in 2 years. But it was for very minor problems. We also recently bought another one (used 2002 LX). I love that one too! The LX is mine and the EX belongs to my husband. The Sedona is just a great value.

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  Great Van for the Money - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Mdunk - February 23 - 2:00 am

  Only have driven a couple hundred miles in it, but I love it. The ride is awesome, features are great, and the family loves it. We traded our Ford expedition due to gas mileage and for the ease of getting kids in and out. We love it so far!!!

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  New Kia Owner - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Leslie W - February 17 - 2:00 am

  We got a great price and a fully loaded van. The kids love it and we are so happy to have them out of a cramped SUV where they touched each other and fought over everything. Now they have their own space and everything is much quieter in the car!

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  Kia Sedona - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By naayaah321 - February 16 - 5:43 pm

  My parents own a Kia Sedona, 2005, and really like the minivan. It has been very reliable and done us well after 4 years. The brakes werre replaced prior 2 times and on the second tine, my dad made them put heavy duty rotors and pads and its been fine ever since. The engine has been very reliable and the problems noted n these reviews have never happened to us. We did replace the tires with the car tires they reccomend, and they wore out fast. What you need to do, is replace them with light truck and SUV tires and i fixes that problem. Think about it, the vehicle weighs 4800 lbs, and car tires are just not heavy duty enough. Overall, its been a great vehicle for our family.

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  Its a people hauler - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By foursmos - February 11 - 10:00 am

  As a sports family we do the baseball and basketball traveling. We have experienced no room for the standard equipment for these sports. The only way it will fit is the removal of the two back seats, we need the seats for people.

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  We LOVE our new Sedona EX minivan!!! - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Hartmans - February 11 - 10:00 am

  I am disappointed that our van did not make the Consumer Report top 5 list. We shopped HARD at all the available minivans on the market. This van won us over hands down in affordability (we wanted ALL the options incl. the DVD), looks, comfort (short mom LOVES the power seat options), and driveability. It isnt any more expensive gas-wise than the Ford Explorer we drove for 10 years. The crash tests impressed us as we wanted a very safe vehicle for our new baby. The seats arrange in so many ways! Who cares if you cant hide them in the floor?! Our only complaint - knobs/handles feel lightweight.

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  Childs safety Before My comfort always - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By T - February 11 - 6:33 am

  This van is not a bad choice at all. Sure it isnt very roomy when it comes to cargo space but with the adjustments and removals available, you can make room. Its the safety that matters people. Would you rather get into a wreck with cargo space or get into a wreck knowing you have a 5 star rating? Yeah, me too. When driving this vehicle, you know you are safe and you just feel safe. You have the good view (except rear view, which is limited) . You think you have your brights running when you dont, the headlights are so good. Interior is quite amazing also. Everywhere you look you can place something, lots of storage and plenty cupholders. You get your moneys worth, ***The Warranty***

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  Best Vehicle I Ever Owned - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By Shaun - February 10 - 5:16 am

  I traded in my 2006 Tahoe in on the Sedona. I needed a vehicle that gets better fuel mileage and still has enough room for at least 7 people. The Sedona is definitely that vehicle. I have had this vehicle for 4 months and I already have 13,000 miles on it. I take my Sedona everywhere. This vehicle is perfect for traveling. I love the large space behind the 3rd row when the 3rd row is up. Driving the Sedona is definitely fun and a pleasure. It has plenty of pickup and a very comfortable ride. Took it on a 2,000 mile road trip and averaged 25 miles per gallon. I would definitely recomend this vehicle to anyone.

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  very bad! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By bakhtalo - February 7 - 12:13 am

  got it 3 years ago and always have had a problem with the engine, transmission, electrical and so so on. If Id not get it as a present from a friend Id never buy it. Now the compressor went and its very hot. Dont make the mistake of getting yourself KIA. I learned this lesson the hard way