Kia Sedona Review

2008 Kia Sedona Minivan Shown

The Kia Sedona minivan has proven to be a hit with the automotive press and consumers alike. Right out of the gate, the Sedona had almost everything needed to be a success in the minivan segment. Starting at around $20,000 and loaded with features, the Kia Sedona delivered in the key areas of build quality, passenger comfort, crash test scores and storage space. The major criticism of the first Sedona concerned its pudginess -- it weighed 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. In fact, it's breathing down their necks. For consumers interested in a quality minivan at a very agreeable price, the Sedona is well worth the consideration.

Current Kia Sedona

The Kia Sedona is a minivan available in either long-wheelbase (LWB) or short-wheelbase (SWB) form. The longer version substitutes a 60/40-split fold-flat third-row seat in place of the short wheelbase's 50/50-split removable bench.

The SWB Sedona is offered in base trim only, while the LWB offers a choice between LX and top-level EX trims. The base and LX trim comes with tri-zone air-conditioning, keyless entry, full power features, satellite radio and a USB audio jack. The EX has a few more features, and it can be further equipped with power-sliding doors, a power liftgate, a DVD entertainment system, a navigation system and leather upholstery. All Sedonas have a full complement of safety features and boast top safety scores as well. For power, the Sedona has a 3.8-liter V6 good for 250 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque.

Riding on a 119-inch wheelbase, the long-wheelbase Kia Sedona is nearly the same size as a Honda Odyssey. As expected, there is plenty of legroom for all three rows, though the third-row seat is still best left to little kids due to a low cushion and tight headroom. Maximum cargo, although a few cubic feet short of the class leaders, is still generous at 142 cubes, and plenty of cubbies abound for quick stowage of things like cell phones, purses and snacks. The short-wheelbase Sedona offers 5 fewer inches of length.

Although pricier than the previous generation, the latest Sedona still undercuts the competition by at least a couple of thousand dollars and should be a top candidate for almost any minivan shopper.

Used Kia Sedona Models

The current Kia Sedona minivan, which represents the vehicle's second generation, debuted in 2006. A concerted effort was made to improve performance over its heavy predecessor, as the Sedona lost 400 pounds and gained nearly 50 hp. Originally, though, this Sedona made 244 hp versus the current output of 250 that arrived for its second year. The short wheelbase was also not offered in the first year. Satellite radio, a USB audio jack and the optional navigation system were added to the features list for '09.

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, impressive crash test scores and smooth, though not so potent, performance from its 3.5-liter 195-hp V6. 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.

Consumers have praised this Kia Sedona for its comfortable seating, roomy cabin, quiet ride and high crash test scores. Issues noted by owners have included some instances of electrical gremlins involving door locks and the air-conditioning. 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.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.