Kia Sedona (99-06) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on
The Kia Sedona offers a package that's hard to beat. It's roomy, flexible, well-equipped and available at a price that won't break the bank. It's a Chrysler Voyager-class vehicle for around the price of a Renault Scenic - with room for a family of seven plus space for luggage. Most buyers opt for the diesel models - the latest 2.9 CRDi is smooth and economical. The downside is so-so build quality on early models and a poor Euro NCAP crash test score.
3.5 out of 5

Other Kia reviews

2 out of 5

Safety

Kia reckons Sedona is safe, pointing to an above-average score in US tests. Car safety experts this side of the pond - Euro NCAP - disagree, awarding it a mere two stars. Dual airbags and side impact protection are standard. No alarm on any model.

NCAP Test

Euro NCAP logo Euro NCAP

Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

Visit Euro NCAP for more info

  • Adult Occupant Rating

    2 out of 5

  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    1 out of 5
3 out of 5

Reliability

Build quality on early cars was only so-so, especially inside, but this 1was cleared up on the later cars. Interior materials can feel flimsy and it's possible - that under heavy family use - they could easily break. Lacks the upmarket feel that you get from a Renault Espace or VW Sharan. But it is much cheaper, after all.

Car check problem points

Body

Watch out for sliding doors that don't shut easily and rear windows that could be yanked out.

Engine/Gearbox

No faults reported.

Other

A number of recalls. One in 2003 to re-programme the ABS, two in 2005 to fix the possibility of wheel bearing failure and another to prevent engine seizure on diesel models. March 2006 saw Sedona recalled for the possibility of electrical fire on models with electric seats. Also check for loose, damaged or broken trim.