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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  Not bad - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By legend - April 23 - 11:36 am

  Just inherited this van from father-in- law. Its got everything you want in a minivan. Only thing that bothers me is the somewhat heavy steering feel and interior squeaks from the rear of the car. It turns out squeaks are coming from side plastic panels. Airbag light came on but thats probably an easy fix. Other than those two things cant really complain

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  Dont Buy KIA - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By g5club - April 20 - 1:23 am

  We have had nothing but problems with our Kia. We have had it in the dealership 3 times because the A/C wont blow cold air, not to mention that it moans loudly. Numerous times it has been seen for electrical wiring problems which keep running our battery down. The exterior paint is coming off the chrome which is rusting. The black strip around the windows is fading and it looks really worn. The worst part is that we have to keep dealing with the Kia service department which is less than cooperative.

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  One Great Van - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Odyssey No Way - April 17 - 10:00 am

  I love my new van. I used to own a 00 Ford Expedition. It was a gas guzzling nuisance. I test drove the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Crysler T&C, Ford Windstar and the Mazda MPV and was pretty close to buying one of those but was never enthused about any of them. I cam across Kia because my mother bought a Volvo and Kia was right next to it. I figured what the hech and went to test drive one, I signed the dotted line that day. Loved it the first time I rode in it. Price was never the reason I purchased since my two previous vehicles were at the 38K mark. I just loved it!

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  Shake Rattle and Roll - 2016 Kia Sedona
  By john schuler - April 14 - 9:58 pm

  Between the highway noise and the rattling it is the worse car we have ever owned. We owned it for a little over a year and put on 17 K miles (mostly highway miles.) Went to trade it in at a Kia dealer and lost over $15K in value. Was looking to trade back to a Sorento which we had and traded in for this vehicle. As far as options goes it has it all. Would never own another Sedona.

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  Disappointed Consumer - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Lisa Grimmer - April 13 - 10:00 am

  I have had my sedona 2 years, and I have had to take it back in 6 times for repairs. 3 times were for check engine light, which is still not repaired. Both of the sliding doors had to have the rollers replaced, and the passenger side mirror is stuck. All of the repairs have been under the warranty, but what happens when the warranty ends?

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  Very Surprised! - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By dmanley - April 12 - 9:30 am

  My wife and I recently had our third child age 5 and under. Given car seats, stroller, diaper bags etc. we felt like we had to succumb to a minivan. After researching/comparing other minivans the Sedona seemed like the best bang for the buck. We have owned our Sedona for 5 weeks now and we are thrilled with the very comfortable car-like ride, smooth handling, climate control throughout the cabin and all the extra room. We are extremely pleased at this point, and cant imagine not having this wonderful vehicle. Highly recommend at this point in our ownership.

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  This thing wont die! - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By eagleboyrox - April 11 - 8:23 pm

  I have an 05 Sedona and this van is surprisingly the most reliable van I have ever seen. Kias cars are crap but this van has 306,234 miles on it right now and still runs like the day it came off the showroom floor. The engine is so quiet you cant hear it run and the transmission still shifts like it should. I love the room inside and the seats are easy to remove. Ive even hauled my jetski in it a few times! I keep the oil changed with 10 w30 Mobil 1 synthetic. That may also account for the great gas mileage I get in this van. It only uses a quarter tank up and back from my house to my mothers house which is about 80 miles away as long as you keep the mph fairly steady. Keep that in mind.

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  Not a complaint outta me - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By I_dig_my_KIA - April 8 - 10:00 am

  In reality, she isnt that much cheaper than the competition, but the Sedona is well built, packed with extras that are options on competitive vehicles, and an all around people hauler. I read many complaints about the LX not coming with Keyless entry? Well learn to barter with your dealer. I got keyless, floormats, lifetime detailing and oil changes thrown in for free. total price of the nicest minivan I have ever owned: $17,400. Compared to my 98 Grand Voyager, this thing is faultless.

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  My First Kia minivan - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Mannyfern - April 4 - 2:00 am

  This minivan has all the things youd want in a family vehicle. My Sedona EX came with leather, power seats, abs, am/fm cassette, cd 6 speaker stereo, plenty of cup holders and all for about 20 grand. The performance from the 3.5L V6 engine is excellent. You can feel the torque at low rpms move you along quickly, making it fun to drive. So far after 3000 miles my Sedona has had no problems whatsoever. I shoped around and for could not find anything close to it value wise. The great warranty of 10 year / 100,000 miles on drivetrain makes it a no brainer.

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  This Kia van is awesome!! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By ALAN HONG - March 30 - 10:00 am

  I really love the way it drives and feels on the road. And the features are much nicer compared to the 99 Sienna CE I leased for 4 years for $450 per month. I am now a proud owner of an EX Sedona with leather, sunroof, ABS and even a spoiler for only $446 per month, PURCHASED!! I cant be happier. And the service department is one of the best. Overall I am very happy with the whole purchase experience and I think this is the best minivan ever made.