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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  07 KIA Sedona-Great car-great value - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By andrew c - March 17 - 8:23 am

  Purchased a 07 Sedona left-over. The Kia is more than I expected. The overall quality is very good. Looked at JD Power - rates Sedona higher than Honda Odyssey. The ride is very quiet, handling is great for a large car. The Sedona weighs in at 4600 lbs. I was very impressed at the pick-up. The Sedona has a Punch when you step on the accelerator. Also the storage behind the 3rd row seats is very large. We used to need a car Carrier on our windstar to haul all of our luggage. Thats not going to be the case with the Sedona. The Sedona is all luxury, I cant get over how quiet and smooth the ride is. Plus your driving one of the safest vehicles on the road. Plenty of interior storage.

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  Great Van - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Angel - March 9 - 6:23 pm

  We rented a Sedona for a family vacation and loved the way the vehicle ran and the comfort. After we got back we started looking around for one and got our Sedona in November 2004.

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  Hoped for More - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Army Guy - March 7 - 9:43 am

  This has been an average van. I knew going in that gas mileage would be bad, and it is ... about 16-17 mpg in mixed driving. Highway we get about 19. Interior is okay; my wife bought it because of leather seats and cheap price. Flexibility, however, is compromised because of very heavy third-row seats that do not fold flat. Reliability has been okay. Check engine light has come on a few times and the alternator went out at 42,000 miles. I think the transmission is starting to go. When colder than about 25, it hesitates before going into gear ... revs like it was in neutral. A/C fixed twice. All except the transmission have been fixed under warranty. Well keep it to 100k as long as repairs are free.

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  One happy owner - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By 1happyowner - March 5 - 10:00 am

  We bought our van 4 months ago. I have been driving a five speead for 5 years. I was worried about switching to an automatic. BUt this van is great. the pickup is excellent. I am never worried about not having enough power. I drove other vans, like the Odessey and Town & Country. I like the Sedona better hands down. The Odessey which has 240 hp feels much more sluggush than the Sedona. The interior is very nice we have an EX with leather. We got such a great price on it also. It is very comfortable!! I am now looking forward to the Sorrento. I cant wait to check it out. I would highly recommend this van.

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  my new van - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By William Anderson - March 5 - 1:33 am

  i like the style and handling of this vehicle. Ive been driving 36 years and have driven almost every type of vehicle on the road. To me this is one of the best. the handling is not like a sports car but to me it is better than a blazer i had. the ride is extremely comfortable. the outside noise level in very minimal. the sound system and air conditioning is very good. the seats are the most comfortable ive set in in years. even the ride in the back seating is very comfortable. the removal of the back seating is great, not as heavy as a gmc van i had. all in all a great van.

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  Got what I paid for - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By meare1 - February 26 - 4:27 pm

  Used to have a Dodge Caravan, compared to that JUNK, this Kia is MUCH better. Yes, it has had the trips to the dealer, (2) for warranty related work, but compared to the NON-warranty trips I had with the Dodge, I would NEVER buy Mopar AGAIN!! Not a bad van for the money. I bought it used with 24k and have since gone past the warranty and just bought new tires for it.

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  Wait and see - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By F Smith - February 26 - 2:00 am

  I bought a 2002 Sedona EX in May 2002. I love the way it drives. It handles well and is tight and solid. However in the last five months the dealer has had the car almost as much as I have. For several different evelectrical problems. So far they have replaced the alternater, radio, keyless entry receiver, and the power seat switch. It took three visits to the dealer and a total of 8 weeks. They provided a rental car so I didnt loose anything. But at this point its going to take a while to build any kind of confidence in the car. I hope I dont have anymore problems becuase I really like the car, and dont want to get rid of it.

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  I love my Sedona! - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By TutiFlutey - February 24 - 10:00 am

  This is my first minivan. I researched every minivan on Edmunds and found the Sedona to be the least expensive van with the most options. Id never driven a minivan before and found it very easy to drive. It is extremely comfortable--I LOVE the lumbar support for my poor back! My husband is excited because now I will actually drive on trips. I wish it got better gas mileage, but am glad its so heavy.

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  Scared To Drive ! - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By babygirl - February 21 - 4:40 am

  This van is a piece of junk. Alternator went out. A/C compressor blew up. Back brakes leaking fluids. Small things inside van breaking: visor mirror cover, ashtray cover, back seat compartment cover. It has terrible terrible gas mileage. My mystery check engine light goes off and on as it pleases. The exhaust fumes are terrible. We are military and live 12 hours from our home state and I am scared to drive it. I am upside down if I trade it in , but I am willing to sacrifice a few dollars for the safety of me and my children. I actually felt safer in my 1995 Hyundai Accent. This is a no-buy.

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  So Far, So Good - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By Mr Tightwad - February 21 - 2:00 am

  I was a little emarassed at first about having a Kia, but now enough people have ridden in it and had nice things to say about it that I am glad I bought it. Its actually a beautiful looking van, and the interior has unique styling and the controls are laid out smartly. I have had no mechanical problems with it. The ride feels great. The only problem I had was I took it to the car wash and spayed water on the bumper where it was pretty dirty, and a little bit of the paint just flew off. But the Kia dealer had it repainted without any questions or arguments.