In the era of SUVs and crossovers, segments like minivans fade into oblivion and lose their utilitarian appeal. However, the 2021 Sedona, a noble box-on-wheels with sliding doors, endured being a perfect choice for families or anyone needing massive amounts of cargo space.
The 2021 Sedona is offered in three distinct trims with a starting price tag of $30,400 for the LX trim, while the top-level trim may cost $41,500 for the SX trim. The Sedona comes with a 276-horsepower V6 engine, and it's paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It's falling behind in the driver-assistance department; none of Kia's high-tech accident-avoidance tech is available on the base model.
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Ratings
Pricing And Features
6.8
Engine And Performance
9.0
Fuel Economy
7.1
Interior
8.0
Exterior
7.0
Safety
7.8
Competition
7.1
7.6
OVERALL RATING
Expert Review, Pricing Analysis and Buying Guide
7.6
Overall Rating
It's right to say the Odyssey and the Chrysler Pacifica are somewhat better minivans overall. Yet the Sedona has its distinct appeal. It's worth checking out, especially if you want your box on wheels to be somewhat unusual from the norm.
Surely, the Sedona does all the usual minivan stuff admirably. A potent V6 engine, generous space, and impressive seat comfort help move seven or eight passengers effortlessly. Besides, the Sedona boasts a chiseled exterior look and a handsome interior design.
2021 Kia Sedona Minivan front 3 quarter view
2021 Kia Sedona Minivan rear 3 quarter view
6.8/10 Pricing and Features
9.0/10 Engine and Performance
7.1/10 Fuel Economy
8.0/10 Interior
7.0/10 Exterior
7.8/10 Safety
7.1/10 Competition
2021 Kia Sedona Pricing and Features
6.8/10
Kia has made changes in its trim levels; by dropping the L variant from its catalog. The 2021 model is available in three trim options; LX, EX, and SX. All the trim showcases the same mechanical properties with different standard offerings.
The base trim LX kick starts from $30,400 and goes all the way to $41,500 for the top-level trim SX which is loaded with an array of all the necessary standard features. The 2021 Kia Sedona misses out on key safety features, but has a good infotainment system and an excellent warranty.
Two-Tone Leather Trim with Heated and Ventilated Front Seats
Temporary steel wheel and tire
Dual Power Sliding Rear Doors, Roof Rails
Surround View Monitor (SVM)
Projection headlamps with escort function
Blind Spot Collision Warning
Forward Collision Warning
Auto light control
Rear-Cross Traffic Collision Warning
Lane Departure Warning
LED Positioning lights
Parking Distance Warning
Driver Attention Warning
LED fog lights
Electronic Parking Brake
The LX trim costs $30,400 and comes with plenty of features as standard with the highlights being Dual Power Sliding Rear Doors, Privacy Glass, and 8-Way Power-Adjustable Driver's Seat.
The EX trim comes next at $33,700 and marks the highlighted features such as Tri-Zone Front and Rear Automatic Climate Control, Dual Power Sliding Rear Doors, Roof Rails along with 18” alloy wheels as standard.
The SX trim lies above the EX trim and completes the line up with the addition of Surround View Monitor, Two-Tone Leather Trim with Heated and Ventilated Front Seats in its feature-list.
2021 Kia Sedona Maintenance, Reliability and Warranty
Kia—and its sister company Hyundai—is known for its long 10-year powertrain warranty and generous five-year bumper-to-bumper coverage. Repairpal rates the Kia Sedona Reliability 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 3rd out of 32 for all car brands. The 2020 Kia Sedona has been rated at 76 out 100 by JD Power, which puts it in the upper side of the average car bracket. Also, There have been no recalls for the 2020 Kia Sedona as reported by the NHTSA.
Reliability and Ownership Costs
The Korean auto marquee, Kia, with its Sedona, holds a mighty presence in the minivans segment and is famed for showing a great scorecard in terms of reliability ratings with the lowest price in the class. Be it J D Power reports or critique satisfaction reports, the Kia Sedona has been a favourite in the segment of minivans for the masses over the decade.
Reliability and Ownership Costs
Kia Sedona has been delivering great utility for decades and won various labels of Awards in its palette. It has been awarded the Quality Award for showing the fewest problems that have been reported per 100 owners during the first 90 days of ownership. Also, awards like the best car for families and best vehicle brands have been achieved by Kia.
As per J.D. Power report, the 3rd-generation Kia Sedona scores an above-average predicted reliability rating of 76 out of 100 and managed to score 82 out of 100 in terms of quality and reliability rating. We would not call these ratings as of the highest standard, but it is capable of matching the level with its rivals with such scores.
In the case of Kia, you get hassle-free maintenance which will not cost you a bomb; the reports say that its repairs are not burdensome than its level-headed rivals in the market.
The price of the Kia Sedona varies in the U.S. because of state tax, destination charges, and dealership discounts. Stockpiling the data from the five different states, we can keenly observe that the nominal variation has been seen in the figures.
Year
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Year 5
Total
Tax Credit
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
Insurance
$1561
$1616
$1672
$1731
$1791
$8371
Maintenance
$319
$527
$400
$814
$1725
$3785
Repairs
$0
$0
$0
$0
$476
$476
Taxes & Fees
$2036
$84
$72
$72
$72
$2336
Financing
$1644
$1322
$978
$613
$221
$4778
Depreciation
$8901
$2511
$2376
$2788
$2639
$19,215
Fuel
$1785
$1839
$1894
$1951
$2009
$9478
The real cost of ownership
$16,246
$7899
$7392
$7969
$8933
$48,439
The average price comes to be $27,930 in these five states, which falls close to the actual cost of the car. Florida and Michigan forks will enjoy the same additional rebate. New Jersey and Arizona enjoy the lowest price of $28,000 and $28,214, but citizens of California will have to pay the maximum amount for a 2021 Kia Sedona.
When you have Kia in your parking place, you need not worry about its recalls and safety concerns, as we haven’t heard of any official recalls this year from NHTSA, and such has been the case since the past decade.
Warranty
The 2021 Kia Sedona comes with sound warranty coverage, which offers compelling five years or 60,000 miles (whichever comes first) with limited warranty coverage and is known for its extended 10-year powertrain warranty. With 24-hour roadside assistance of 5 years and countless years, Kia has a handsome coverage package in its catalog. The Sedona beats all comers with its standard policies, but the purchase of a Toyota Sienna includes two years of complimentary scheduled maintenance.
Criteria
Period
Limited warranty
5 years or 60,000 miles; whichever is earlier
Powertrain warranty
10 years or 1,00,000 miles; whichever is earlier
24-hour roadside assistance
5 years and unlimited years
Kia is the most competent contemporary brand in the industry, owing to significant warranty figures and roadside assistance packages. But unlike its famous rivals, Kia doesn’t offer complimentary scheduled maintenance in its portfolio.
Miles Per dollar
When money saving comes into the picture, Miles Per dollar helps estimate the buyer's budget and provides a realistic approach to buying vehicles. But looking over the data, the cost to drive 1 mile is 0.1032 dollars, so to put things in perspective, Kia Sedona offers around 10 miles per dollar.
2021 Kia Sedona Buying Advice
Many buyers will be tempted to buy the SX trim as they would be allured with its captivating features. If you have a deeper pocket, you can go for SX trim, as it demands an additional $7,300 buck. However, we would keep this choice as neutral and suggest to go for EX trim as it strikes the perfect balance between price and features. This will most definitely cover up all your preferences and personal needs you expect from a minivan.
Is buying a used Kia Sedona a good idea?
There were no significant changes for 2018, but for 2019, Kia replaced the Sedona’s slow-shifting six-speed automatic transmission with a smoother-shifting eight-speed automatic. Kia also made Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard in the 2019 Sedona and discontinued the SX Limited trim.
There are no significant changes for the 2020 Sedona, so we recommend opting for the nearly identical and likely more affordable 2019 model and its updated transmission.
Looking for insights into depreciation value 2017, 2016 & 2019, Kia model years are enjoying the best benefits. One can get a 2017 Kia Sedona at 53% of its original price with nine years of useful life.
2021 Kia Sedona Engine and Performance
9.0/10
Kia makes do with a tried and tested powertrain; we are familiar with the 3.3 L regular V6 engine, which powers the 2021 Sedona. Also, powering its predecessors, this motor churns out 276 horses and 248 lb-ft of peak torque. The power delivery is smooth, and punch is plenty for purpose. Transmission duties are taken care of by an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
2021 Kia Sedona Minivan engine
Smooth and refined, the Sedona's V-6 is well matched to its people-moving mission and rarely transmits any harshness to the cabin. Around-town driving is stress-free, but hustling the Sedona up to highway speeds requires liberal use of the gas pedal.
Models
2021 Kia Sedona (Expected)
2020 Honda Odyssey LX
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Touring
2020 Toyota Sienna L
MSRP
$30,400
$30,690
$33,495
$31,415
Engine
3.3L Regular V6
3.5L Regular V6
3.6L Regular V6
3.5L Regular V6
Drive train
FWD
FWD
FWD
FWD
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
10-Speed Automatic
9-Speed Automatic
8-Speed Automatic
Power
276hp@6,000rpm
280hp@6,000rpm
287hp@6,400rpm
296hp@6,600rpm
Torque
248lb-ft@5,200rpm
262lb-ft@4,700rpm
262lb-ft@4,000rpm
263lb-ft@4,700rpm
Looking at the above bunch of rivals, they seem to depict similar power numbers and somehow fall in the same price bracket. However, we can say that Kia’s engine is not as potent as its cut-throat rivals. Also, among the competitors, Toyota Sienna performs excellently with its enthralling figures. Kia is not the best, but its numbers are adequate with decent hauling capabilities.
2021 Kia Sedona Acceleration and Braking Performance
2021 Kia Sedona Minivan accelerate 0-60 mph in 7.6 sec
They do a commendable job of bringing it to a stress-free stop and give an immediate response.
Models
2021 Kia Sedona (Expected)
2020 Honda Odyssey LX
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Touring
2020 Toyota Sienna L
0-60 MPH
7.6 sec
7.6 sec
7.4 sec
6.9 sec
Quarter- Mile
15.8 sec
15.9 sec
15.6 sec
15.3 sec
Top -Speed
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
60-0 MPH
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Kia Sedona managed to provide a satisfactory figure, but Toyota Sienna bagged the trophy with the enthralling numbers of 0-60mph in just 6.9 seconds, which becomes fastest in the segment. However, it is difficult to assess the minivans on braking performance as data is not made available. Yet, Its brake performance is as good as or better than that of rivals.
2021 Kia Sedona Fuel Economy
7.1/10
The 2021 Kia Sedona is thirsty even for a minivan, thanks to its massive weight and old-school V-6. The EPA rates all Sedona models at 18 mpg city, 24 highway, 21 combined. That puts the Sedona on par with its SUV brethren like the Sorento and Telluride. The city estimate is about average, but the highway rating is below average for a minivan. Several rivals have lower annual fuel costs than the Sedona.
Models
2021 Kia Sedona (Expected)
2020 Honda Odyssey LX
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Touring
2020 Toyota Sienna L
MPG (City)
18
19
19
19
MPG (Highway)
24
28
28
26
MPG (Combined)
21
22
22
21
Fuel Capacity
21.1 gallons
19.5 gallons
19.0 gallons
19.0 gallons
Range (City/Highway/Combined)
380/506/443 miles
371/546/429 miles
361/532/418 miles
380/520/399
When you take the MPG of all the cars into account, you will be impressed by the fact that the Kia offers a great fuel capacity. From a bunch of rivals, Honda Odyssey performs well, offering 546 miles highway range. The overall or combined mileage is pretty long-lasting for a minivan.
2021 Kia Sedona Interior
8.0/10
Once you set your foot inside this minivan, you would appreciate the brawns behind the brains, who innovated the room to roam. It simply blends a distinctive design with a modern touch to enhance every journey with true comfort. The first thing which causes jaw-drop is the uniquely styled dashboard with a driver-centric centre stack that feels extremely user-friendly. For families, minivans are blessings, and Kia is one of them, which can smoothly accommodate seven folks in its room. All the seats are comfy and spacious.
2021 Kia Sedona Minivan cockpit area
The front passengers experience the ultimate level of comfort. Both the front row and second row offer equal and generous space. But for adults, the third row becomes uncomfortable. With more roomy interior visibility from all the seats is limited. 2021 model’s interior is expected to be wider and longer, but it will most likely be a carryover with few minor updates.
Models
2021 Kia Sedona (Expected)
2020 Honda Odyssey LX
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Touring
2020 Toyota Sienna L
Seating Capacity
7
7
7
7
Front Row (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)
39.8/63.9/40.9
40.7/63.1/40.9
40.1/63.8/41.1
41.0/65.0/40.5
Second Row (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)
39.4/63.1/41.1
39.5/61.6/40.9
39.6/63.0/39.0
39.7/64.6/37.6
Third Row
(Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)
38.9/59.4/38.4
38.4/59.2/38.1
38.7/59.2/36.5
38.3/61.1/36.3
Cargo Capacity (cu.ft.)
33.9
38.6
32.3
39.1
We haven't received any disappointments from Kia Sedona in terms of interior trajectory, as it firmly manages in offering ultimate plush with adequate seat bolstering, the first and second row brings enough comfort with more space but the rear room feels little crammed and jammed. Among the competition, Toyota Sienna offers the roomiest interiors and it comes with a large cargo space as well.
How’s the 2021 Kia Sedona Infotainment system?
Kia appears rich in the offering of a decent infotainment system. It provides a modern and stylish interior coupled with high-tech features and hence proved that minivans can also be a statement of contemporary styling. From the 7.0" touch screen for the base trim and the 8.0” high-resolution screen for top-trim level, one can control a host of infotainment features from these displays. A standard six-speaker audio system placed strategically will create a listening experience similar to a live performance. Smartphone integration with Apple Carplay and Android Auto compatibility is standard.
2021 Kia Sedona Exterior
7.0/10
When it comes to the category of minivans, almost every minivan appears the same as that of boxy appeal. But the Kia Sedona is larger in exterior body statement which completely looks figured out with the strong design. The Kia’s soft exterior and boxy metal design makes this minivan most practical. The tiger-nose grille is blackened and it comes with a rear spoiler and body-colored mirrors. Auto light control is made standard but advanced features like high beam assist, LED fog lights are reserved for top trims.
2021 Kia Sedona Minivan
The upcoming Kia Sedona will arrive with few refinements in its exterior portion, so that it may look appealing. 2021 Sedona will come with a longer and wider body along with new LED Headlamps with DRL and a redesigned bumper.
Models
2021 Kia Sedona (Expected)
2020 Honda Odyssey LX
2020 Chrysler Pacifica Touring
2020 Toyota Sienna L
Curb Weight (lb)
4411 lbs
4354 lbs
4330 lbs
4430 lbs
Length (inches)
201.4"
203.2"
203.8"
200.6"
Width (inches)
78.1"
78.5"
79.6"
78.1"
Height (inches)
68.5"
68.3"
69.9"
68.9"
Ground Clearance (inches)
6.7"
N/A
5.1"
6.5"
Wheelbase (inches)
120.5"
118.1"
121.6"
119.3"
From the above bunch of rivals, the 2021 Kia Sedona shows better dimensions of exterior styling, the visual guise is also appealing to the buyers. But size-wise the Pacifica is quite large. It is the largest in the segment, in fact. Despite that, it is the lightest of the lot.
2021 Kia Sedona Safety
7.8/10
Sedona performs well in the safety department and earned top ratings from the NHTSA in crash testing and good remarks from the IIHS. But due to the poor performance of headlamps, it missed the tag of top safety pick. High steering features are not available, but it has few suites of standard driver-assistance features.
2021 Kia Sedona Competition
7.1/10
2021 Kia Sedona vs. Chrysler Pacifica
Both these minivans are competitive, but the sales figures of Pacifica aptly justify its true utility in the market. However, Kia Sedona is a leading lady in terms of its quirky features but Kia has been losing its charm and glow. If two minivans jump in the race, then Pacifica would definitely steal the trophy from Kia Sedona.. Add in great fuel economy, and the Pacifica is a definite contender.
Chrysler Pacifica
It doesn't rank as highly as the Sedona because it has a subpar predicted reliability rating, while the Kia's is excellent.
2021 Kia Sedona vs. Toyota Sienna
Kia boasts its guise with the boxy design, which may or may not allure everyone. Both are moguls in the muck, but Toyota has been embracing its brand by offering potent engines and great acceleration figures, which leaves Kia behind the wheels.Comparatively, the Sedona's seating is a bit more versatile and easier to deal with. And feature for feature, the Sedona offers more bang for the buck.
Toyota Sienna
2021 Kia Sedona Final Verdict
Minivans are known for their utilitarian nature and better reliability, and 2021 Kia Sedona minivan is no different. Kia tries to offer the luxury features in its portfolio but these are reserved for the top trim levels, however, it offers enough space and a great cabin with a plethora of features. But when the mechanical aspect jumps into the picture, Kia disappoints its buyers and brings conundrum, whether to go for this minivan or not.
I don’t know if I’m a bad driver or what but the fuel economy is much lower than whatever claims they have made.
8/10
Features
9/10
Interior
8/10
Design
8/10
Safety
6/10
Reliability
7/10
Deal Value
10/10
Dealer Review
EG
Erik C. Gordon
2020 Kia Sedona
EX 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 8A)
9
User Overall Rating
Posted On: August 10, 2020
Expected better than this
Pros - Cargo space, infotainment, styling
Cons - Ride quality
It is a good all-round vehicle and I don’t deny it but I had better expectations and it is not exactly what I thought it would be. I mean take ride quality as an example. It is painful to drive in cities let alone on highways and long drives.
I don’t know if I’m a bad driver or what but the fuel economy is much lower than whatever claims they have made.
by Christopher L. Schley
9
User Overall Rating
Expected better than this
It is a good all-round vehicle and I don’t deny it but I had better expectations and it is not exactly what I thought it would be. I mean take ride quality as an example. It is painful to drive in cities let alone on highways and long drives.
