User Review: 2007 Kia Sedona

Most reviews I've read on vehicles tend to be written either by professionals who spend inordinate amounts of time driving tons of vehicles or by normal folks like myself. The users who review often fall into two categories: the new owners who are excited and wish to share the wisdom of their purchase with the entire world or the owners who are angry with a terrible purchase and wish to share that with every one willing to listen. I, however, fit into neither of these.

Now nearing 20,000 miles, I think it is the ideal time for the Kia Sedona minivan to receive an actual review by someone who has spent countless hours in it. From the trips to the grocery store to that infernal trip to Orlando, this poor vehicle has been put through a bit of a ringer. It's much better than a professional review by someone who drives a dozen vehicles a week. This is one of two vehicles I drive. The Sedona and I know each other well.

First, about the exterior design. It looks less like a minivan than others, possibly due to the short-wheel base on this particular model. Overall, the look is rather sporty with a high stance that is actually reminiscent of an SUV. The body seems to be able to withstand normal parking lot dings from buggies and the mailbox I ran over last year didn't do any massive damage, although I was mildly horrified at the fiberglass bumper. I'm still used to vehicles from two decades ago that sported more solid metal and chrome.

The roof rack held up on a 2,000 mile round trip journey with several hundred pounds strapped to the top. There were no wobbles on the roof or strange popping sounds which actually impressed me greatly. The windshield offers a substantial view with no blind spots that can't be easily corrected while the tint in the back windows is more than enough to keep the interior cool.

The interior certainly lacks some of the higher end materials of more expensive vehicles which makes the cockpit rather bland. A gearshift problem creates a significant annoyance in that high outside temperatures makes it sometimes stick in park. Strong manipulation gets it back in gear but without fail causes the computers stability system to turn itself off. The mediocre service staff waffles between confusion about the problem to knowing exactly what it is and ordering the wrong part. We'll return to service in a bit.

If you opt for the most common seat coverings, it will be the waffle type cloth. Mine has yet to see in rips or serious wear, but those annoying little fuzz balls sometimes make the seating look as if it were covered by a sweater. These minor cosmetic issues should be expected for the price, however. What the interior lacks is made up for my good functionality. There are two D/C charge receptacles and almost a dozen cup holders. My family somehow always manages to fill them all. Storage, even for a short wheel base is quite generous with numerous cubbies which include two distinct glove boxes. Finally, the steering wheel has a solid feel that I'm only used to in higher end vehicles. Somehow I feel cooler with this steering wheel especially when my six speaker sound system is playing some uncool music my children despise.

I should briefly mention the sound system. I didn't get the upgrade but generally do not miss it. There is no external MP3 jack and the CD plays but one lonely disc, but this is a family vehicle so I was never expected a symphonic miracle. There are six speakers and the buttons are relatively easy to get to in relation to the cockpit design. I've added a satellite radio but that's after market and perhaps shouldn't be included in this review. The sound on the satellite radio isn't as loud as the CD player, however, and I have yet to be able to pick that one out.

There is a feature which measures proper tire inflation and notifies the driver when the tire is low. I've probably appreciated this feature more than most others as it is incredibly practical. My tires also love me for it. This is one of a few tiny features this vehicle has that I wasn't accustomed to and didn't really notice until I'd bought it. Another is a sensor that detects when someone is in the front passenger seat. When there isn't, or the weight limit has yet to be reached, the airbag in that area automatically turns off.

Speaking of airbags, I can't really review the safety features, because I haven't (thankfully) needed them. It is loaded with airbags both front and back along with a stability control system. I've had a few problems with it coming on intermittently, but it is one of those quirks that I've learned to deal with. Such as the gearshift that sticks in the hot sun, there are a few of them.

Now to the engine. The Kia gets surprisingly good gas mileage for a van. I'm somewhere in the 25 mpg range which is pleasing, especially given that this V6 engine supplies almost 250 horsepower. Getting up to speed on a busy interstate has yet to be a problem with the Kia. There is sometimes a strange whistling sound if the speed is too fast, but that is yet another quirk. It has also strangely ceased since I had to have the A/C compressor replaced.

Since we're on the subject of replacement and service, it should now be time to discuss that. Yes, the compressor on the air conditioning went out last spring. It was replaced but it took two weeks for them to receive the part. You may have already guessed that Kia is not in the habit of giving out loaners and my case was no exception. Therefore, I enjoyed Louisiana humidity with the windows rolled down. You see, while any Kia comes with a fantastic warranty, I've found that the service is nightmarish. Yes, nightmarish. This cannot be stressed enough. They're nice enough guys, but I ordered a part six months ago and have yet to get a callback. (It's a potential fix for my sticky gear-shifter. I've brought it in half a dozen times and just do not have the heart to do so again). Be glad you have a good warranty because the odds are that you'll use it.

All in all, I would actually by my minivan again. It was a good vehicle for the amenities and price. This is no Range Rover and I've never expected it to be. Everything gets high to average marks except for the service centers that could use some serious improvement. Should someone buy it? Certainly, as long as they know what they're getting and accept it as such.