Minivans aren't meant to be sexy. They're meant to carry people and packages efficiently and comfortably in the most safe and solid way. Throw in an affordable price tag, and even the blandest-looking minivan becomes attractive. The 2003 Kia Sedona tries to accomplish all these goals. Though not a style winner, it comes with a lot of standard features, versatile cargo configurations, and enough cupholders for a baseball team. It also received top marks from the NHTSA in terms of crash and rollover ratings.
The 2003 Sedona minivan didn't mess too much with the models. Taillights were redesigned, the base LX got a CD player, and the EX received more exterior chrome trim and two-tone body cladding. An optional trailer hitch is also new this year, taking advantage of the heavy minivan's 3500-pound towing capacity. Though it is one of heaviest minivans on the market, the 2003 Sedona does well on acceleration, thanks to the combination of a 5-speed auto tran and a 195-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine. This is less power than other minivans, but the automatic helps smooth out the ride. Both the second and third rows can be removed to expand the cargo space to 127 cubic feet, and the third row seats can be removed separately, offering more passenger and cargo flexibility. A major complaint from owners is that seat removal can be cumbersome and they wish the seats folded flat, as they do in many minivans. In the EX, the second row bench is replaced by captain's chairs. Both rows recline and move back and forth.
Ten cupholders (12 in the EX), hidden storage compartments, four power outlets, and a fold-down table between the front and second row are also family-friendly. The 2003 Sedona does have dual sliding doors, but a power option is not available. Most owners agree that what you get for the low price makes the 2003 Sedona a worthwhile buy. They like the high safety ratings, comfortable seats, storage options, Kia's warranty, and the overall smooth and quiet ride. The 2003 Sedona does need a lot of trips to the repair shop, and the check engine light is constantly coming on. The windshield cracks easily, paint peels off, and both interior and exterior show wear and tear. Gas mileage is not great, at 15/20 mpg. Owners also say the rear hatch, which lifts up high, is hard and heavy to pull back down.
