2004 Kia Sedona Reviews, Pricing & Specs

If you can't get enough cupholders and all seven of your minivan passengers are drinking at the same time, the 2004 Kia Sedona has got you covered. Three rows of seats fit any combination of seven adults and children, with 10 (in the LX) or 12 (in the EX) cupholders distributed throughout. Four of these are in a now-standard fold-out table between the front and second rows, with a cupholder extension so passengers don't have to awkwardly reach.

The 2004 Kia Sedona gets a new grille this year. The luxury EX gets alloy wheels. And, to the relief of grateful parents everywhere, an optional DVD system is now available in both LX and EX trims. Powered by a 3.5-liter, 195-hp DOHC V6 and a 5-speed automatic, the 2004 Sedona is an affordable, storage-friendly minivan that is slotted lengthwise between the Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan. Both rear rows recline and move forward and aft, to increase legroom or cargo room. One drawback is that the seats do not fold flat, but have to be removed, which isn't always easy. Another drawback is the lack of standard ABS, which is only an option. Though it only has dual front airbags, and no side curtains are offered, the 2004 Sedona gets high marks from the NHTSA in crash and rollover tests. The Insurance Institute rates it an average. The LX is nicely equipped with power features, cruise control, rear climate control, and a windshield de-icer. The EX comes with leather and wood trim, a roof rack (optional for the LX), power front seats, and the option of leather upholstery and a sunroof.

The low price tag and great 10-year powertrain warranty is the biggest selling point of the 2004 Sedona. Families like the versatility of the seats, even though they don't fold flat. There are many storage compartments scattered throughout the cabin, though some wish it had more overall cargo space (127 cubic feet with the seats removed). The dash ergonomics are convenient and easy to use, and the overall ride is smooth and comfortable. Acceleration is also good, despite the heavy weight of the Sedona. Drawbacks include numerous repair issues, low gas mileage, an easily cracked windshield, low-quality materials that show dings and scratches, and inadequate brake pads and rotors that have to be frequently replaced (probably due to the weight of the minivan).