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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  Better than I expected - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By hotrod8983 - January 4 - 2:14 pm

  We bought our Sedona new in 02 after our Windstar gave up the ghost. After all of our shopping around, test driving, negotiating, etc. it came down to the Kia or a Honda Odyssey. Hondas warranty was a joke and their non-negotiable price was $6 grand more. We took a chance. Cant say weve regretted it. A few quirks that were expected for the first model year of any car, but the warranty covered everything. Gas mileage continues to be a disappointment, but this thing plows through the snow and tows a fishing boat with no issues. Would like to buy the wife a new one but at 185,000 miles she refuses to give it up. Perfect? No. But definitely a lot for the money.

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  Best Mini on the market - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By adowd1 - January 3 - 2:00 am

  Personally, I believe this is the best minivan on the market.. After reviewing the features on this mini for almost 8 months, I finally decided to purchase the Ex Model with all of the bells and whistles except for the tow hitch. For $350, I could use this extra cash for the Valueguard paint protection plan.. For $19,300, you cant pass this deal up as other mid-size minivans usually costs around $27,500-$38,900 for the same features found on the Sedona. MY RECOMMENDATION: SAVE THE EXTRA $10,000!

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  Can anything else be wrong - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By P Contreras - December 30 - 12:33 am

  We have a 2002 Sedona and have loved it until one thing after another keeps going on. The van keeps dying out on me. We have changed the motor mounts, 02 sensors, the air flow filters, and the alternator. So far the check engine light has not turned on so the dealer is guessing on what could be wrong. Up to now we have spent close to $2000 and still dont know whats going on. At this point I regreat letting my husband change my mind from buying the Toyota Sienna. WOMEN DONT LET YOUR HUSBAND CHANGE YOUR MIND. For a mom with 3 small kids this is not a safe car!

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  Excellent for the money - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By excellentforthemoney - December 29 - 10:00 am

  Being a proud tightwad I couldnt get over all that the Kia sedona offered. First the dealer was exceptional. Secondly, the warranty, smooth ride and hidden little extras were a pleasant surprise. ( I got an LX with many EX features, free) The driver seat is not as roomy as my previous minivan. (dodge caravan) On long trips it can cramp legs and backs, however the seats do slide out indivually and the punch when you hit the pedal is there. All in all I would buy another sedona. For those prices ( 19,200) you cannot afford not too.

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  Kia Sedona - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Carol S. - December 28 - 5:46 am

  Rides great, wonderful for road trips. Room enough to sleep with rear seats removed. Entire electrical system went out, burning smell, was in shop for over a week. Did have minor reoccurring electrical troubles that were repaired under warranty. At 60,400 miles the alternator went out, only financial assistance offered was from a kind service manager. Kia Customer Service refused any assistance. Dont know if I would purchase another.

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  Best BANG for my BUCK! - 2003 Kia Sedona
  By kialover - December 23 - 10:00 am

  My Kia TOP of the LINE still beat the price compare with other Mini-Van Basic Price and with the Excellent safty Record it was a EASY decision for my wife and me. Beside, for next 10 years/100,000 worry free miles would be fun!

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  Great Value - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Gabriel - December 16 - 8:10 pm

  We have had the Sedona for 2 years now and so far so good. It has proven very reliable and very comfortable. This is a large minivan and with the seats folded it can carry an impressive amount of cargo. I moved recently and was able to put my sofa in the van with no problems. The only complaints are the fuel mileage and some of the plastic interior parts are on the cheap side. Another major drawback is the steep depreciation on this minivan. However, this is not something Kia can directly control Having said that, the standard equipment is quite extensive, especially the safety features.

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  But I dont want a minivan! - 2009 Kia Sedona
  By Rookie - December 12 - 1:50 am

  I am a reluctant minivan buyer. With two kids still in car seats, my wife felt it was the way to go. She was right. Plenty of room, nice 3rd row folding seats, comfort, and easy to drive. The Kia came with some nice features such as the iPod dock and good storage cubbies. The ability to roll down the back seat windows for the kids is nice too. The V6 has some good pep when needed as well. Turns out I am pleasantly surprised that I actually enjoy driving the Sedona. It’s still a van, but it’s nice to know I’ve got a highly rated vehicle for safety with two small kids. Yes, Kia has a low resale value, but that allowed me to buy this for $15k. It was a great buy.

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  Alaska Highway Ready! - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By tjimt2000 - December 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought a Kia Sedona EX, leather, sunroof, ABS included, in May 2002. That summer I drove it from Wisconsin to my home in Alaska. The following year I drove it down to Iowa and back to AK again. On both trips I was towing a small cargo trailer and the Kia had plenty of power. My wife and I, along with two teenage girls and a dog made each trip. Believe me the Alaska Highway will test any road vehicle and the Sedona performed great. I have had ZERO PROBLEMS with the vehicle.I would make the same purchase again without hesitation.

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  Great Value - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Drdavid7 - December 11 - 2:00 am

  Overall, a great value with style. Attractive and affordability without a few "extras" that the more expensive models offer. Well worth the money saved!