2018 Kia Sedona
Pros
- The distinctive cockpit looks more like a car's than a minivan's
- You get a lot of features for the money
- The second-row seats are quite versatile
- Cabin remains pleasantly quiet on the highway
Cons
- Fuel economy is subpar, especially on the SX Limited model
- Slightly less cargo capacity than rivals
- The ride is busy over rough pavement and large bumps
- Second-row seats aren't removable, and don't fold up on the SX Limited
2018 Kia Sedona pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Which Sedona does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
3.5 / 5Considering that most minivan manufacturers have spent decades perfecting their spacious people movers (the Dodge Grand Caravan traces its roots back to the mid-1980s, for instance), the Kia Sedona is practically the new kid on the block. But since its debut in 2002, the Sedona has grown from being an inexpensive also-ran to a high-tech cruiser capable of taking the fight to the establishment. It's still one of the most affordable vehicles in the class, but its roomy interior, high-quality cabin materials and flexible seating arrangements deliver plenty of appeal beyond just value.
The 2018 Kia Sedona does all the standard minivan stuff well. It can transport seven or eight passengers effortlessly thanks to its strong V6 engine, and the deep cargo well accepts plenty of luggage, so it's perfect for a family road trip. There are a few surprises here, too. On the SX Limited model, the second-row captain's chairs offer deployable thigh rests and airline-style headrests with folding wings. The seats are so comfortable you'll be counting down the days until the oldest can get a learner's permit.
There are a few disappointments, chief of which is the V6's uncompetitive fuel economy scores. The Sedona SX Limited earns a full 6 mpg less than the new Honda Odyssey in the EPA's highway test, for example. In addition, the second-row seats aren't removable, so you can't turn the Sedona into a cargo van on the fly as you can with the Chrysler Pacifica. On the whole, though, the Sedona is a solid entry in this segment, whether you consider it the budget-friendly alternative to mainstream minivans or an executive seven-seater with a first-class middle row.
Trim levels & features
The 2018 Kia Sedona is a seven- or eight-passenger minivan sold in five trim levels. The base L model is very reasonably priced, with a light features list that includes a rearview camera and a USB input for the audio system. The LX doesn't cost much more, and its power-sliding doors and other features are worth the modest price bump. The EX is quite a bit more, but we find its power tailgate, 7-inch touchscreen and leather upholstery to be irresistible. The SX doubles down on the luxury, safety and tech features, and even more are added when you select the range-topping SX Limited.
Like every Sedona, the base L model is powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine (276 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque) that sends power to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard feature highlights include 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver seat, Slide-N-Stow forward-collapsing second-row captain's chairs (reducing seating capacity to seven), stain-resistant cloth upholstery, a 60/40-split reclining and folding third-row bench seat, dual-zone climate control (with front and rear controls), Bluetooth, a 5-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player and a USB port.
The LX trim adds power-folding mirrors, power-sliding doors, rear privacy glass, a second-row bench seat (increasing passenger capacity to eight), an eight-way power driver seat (with two-way power lumbar) and a six-speaker audio system.
The EX hits what we think is the sweet spot of the Sedona lineup. This trim adds 18-inch wheels, foglights, LED daytime running lights, a windshield wiper de-icer, heated mirrors, roof rails, a height-adjustable power tailgate, front and rear parking sensors, upgraded shock absorbers, keyless ignition and entry, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, tri-zone automatic climate control, a driver information display, leather upholstery, heated front seats, sunshades for the second and third rows, a cooled glovebox, a portable flashlight, a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, Uvo3 eServices emergency telematics and additional USB charge ports.
The SX trim reverts back to the seven-passenger configuration with second-row captain's chairs (the bench is available as an option) and adds LED taillights, driver-seat memory functions, four-way lumbar adjustment for the driver, an eight-way power front passenger seat, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, an 8-inch touchscreen, a navigation system and an eight-speaker Infinity premium audio system. A blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert is also included.
The range-topping eight-passenger SX Limited trim adds 19-inch wheels, adaptive xenon headlights with automatic high-beam control, upgraded foglights, a sound-reducing windshield, chrome door handles, adaptive cruise control, a heated steering wheel and a household-style power outlet. Even more advanced safety features come with the SX Limited, including forward collision warning and mitigation (with automatic emergency braking), a lane departure warning system and a surround-view camera system.
Many features on the higher trims are available as options on the lower trims. A dual-panel sunroof; first-class, lounge-style seating for the second row (without Slide-N-Stow); and premium leather upholstery are available solely on the SX Limited trim via the Prestige package. A rear-seat entertainment system is offered on all models.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2015 Kia Sedona SX Limited Minivan (3.3L V6 | 6-speed automatic | FWD).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Sedona has received some revisions, including a few more standard and optional features, and the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto last year. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's Sedona.
Driving
3Acceleration
Braking
4.5Steering
2.5Handling
3Drivability
3Comfort
3.5Seat comfort
3.5Ride comfort
3Noise & vibration
4.5Interior
3.5Ease of use
4Getting in/getting out
3Roominess
3Visibility
3.5Quality
4.5Utility
3.5Small-item storage
3Cargo space
2.5Child safety seat accommodation
4.5Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2018 Kia Sedona.
Most helpful consumer reviews
2018 Kia Sedona video
Features & Specs
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Sedona safety features:
- Uvo eServices
- Notifies emergency services with your location in the event of a crash in which the airbags deploy.
- Blind-Spot Detection System
- Lets you know if there's a car in your blind spot as well as if there's a car approaching when you're backing up.
- Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Detects if a front crash is imminent and applies the brakes to avoid or mitigate the crash.
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2018 Kia Sedona for Sale
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See your car's valueOne of the top minivans on the market, the 2018 Kia Sedona boasts a lot of useful features for the money. And with five Sedona trim levels available, buyers can opt for maximum value or ramp up the luxury and technology as they see fit. There's nothing particularly eye-popping about the Sedona's exterior styling, but it's attractive enough for a full-size people mover. On the inside, though, its crossover SUV-influenced cabin almost takes the "van" out of minivan.
The Sedona's powerplant is a 3.3-liter V6 that generates 276 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque and drives the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. The EPA rates most Sedona models at 20 mpg combined (18 city/24 highway), though the SX model achieves 21 mpg combined (18 city/25 highway). Conversely, the SX Limited is rated at 19 mpg combined (17 city/22 highway), making it the least fuel-efficient minivan on the market.
Although the Sedona is less fuel-efficient than its major competitors, outright acceleration is competitive for the segment. Comfortable, smooth and quiet on the road, the Sedona handles about average for a large family hauler. Its bulk does tend to be an issue in the corners, and the very light steering provides minimal feedback. But most drivers will likely be pleased with its overall driving characteristics.
Interior comfort and space are the Sedona's calling card. The cockpit layout is attractive and modern with quality materials and controls that are easy to reach and logically arranged, and it has seats designed for long trips. The first two rows of occupants will find more than enough room to stretch out, although the third row is best reserved for the kids. Cargo space with the last row of seats up lags a bit behind the competition, but it will likely be enough for most buyers.
The Sedona can seat seven or eight, depending on the trim level. The base L model comes equipped with basic amenities such as alloy wheels, air conditioning, a rearview camera and Bluetooth connectivity. The LX trim adds more comfort and convenience features, the EX and SX models up the ante for luxury and technology, and the top-of-the-line SXL includes a number of advanced safety features and premium leather upholstery. Whatever your preference, let Edmunds help you find the 2018 Kia Sedona that best meets your needs.
2018 Kia Sedona Overview
The 2018 Kia Sedona is offered in the following submodels: Sedona Minivan. Available styles include LX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A), EX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A), SX Limited 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A), SX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A), and L 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A).
What do people think of the 2018 Kia Sedona?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Kia Sedona and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 Sedona 5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2018 Sedona.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Kia Sedona and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 Sedona featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Edmunds Scorecard
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2018 Kia Sedona?
2018 Kia Sedona SX Limited 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 Kia Sedona SX Limited 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $43,040. The average price paid for a new 2018 Kia Sedona SX Limited 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) is trending $10,825 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $10,825 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$32,215.
The average savings for the 2018 Kia Sedona SX Limited 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) is25.2% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 17 2018 Kia Sedona SX Limited 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 Kia Sedona SX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 Kia Sedona SX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $38,135. The average price paid for a new 2018 Kia Sedona SX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) is trending $10,144 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $10,144 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$27,991.
The average savings for the 2018 Kia Sedona SX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) is26.6% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 8 2018 Kia Sedona SX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 Kia Sedona LX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 Kia Sedona LX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $31,380. The average price paid for a new 2018 Kia Sedona LX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) is trending $6,654 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,654 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$24,727.
The average savings for the 2018 Kia Sedona LX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) is21.2% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 11 2018 Kia Sedona LX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 Kia Sedona EX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 Kia Sedona EX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $34,890. The average price paid for a new 2018 Kia Sedona EX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) is trending $7,865 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $7,865 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$27,025.
The average savings for the 2018 Kia Sedona EX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) is22.5% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 5 2018 Kia Sedona EX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Which 2018 Kia Sedonas are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2018 Kia Sedona for sale near. There are currently 126 new 2018 Sedonas listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $30,485 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2018 Kia Sedona. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $10,872 on a used or CPO 2018 Sedona available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2018 Kia Sedonas you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Kia Sedona for sale - 8 great deals out of 19 listings starting at $17,858.
Find a new Kia for sale - 5 great deals out of 21 listings starting at $17,703.
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2018 Kia Sedona?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
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Related vehicle information
2018 Kia Sedona Information
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