2019 KIA Sedona Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

The Good

The 2019 KIA Sedona offers a smooth and quiet ride, making long journeys comfortable for families. Its powerful V6 engine provides confident acceleration, while the well-appointed interior, especially in higher trims, offers a premium feel. It appeals to practical buyers with its strong value, comprehensive warranty, and spaciousness, and to emotional buyers with its stylish exterior and feature-rich cabin.

The Bad

While generally reliable, the 2019 KIA Sedona has some known weaknesses to watch out for. Fuel economy isn't class-leading, and the second-row "Slide-n-Stow" seats, while clever, can be heavy and don't offer the same flexibility as competitors' removable or fold-flat seats. Some owners report minor electrical glitches or issues with power sliding doors over time.

2019 KIA Sedona: Quick Overview

The 2019 KIA Sedona offered a singular, capable powertrain across all its trims.

• Engine Option: 3.3-liter GDI V6 engine.
• Horsepower: 276 hp at 6,000 rpm.
• Torque: 248 lb-ft at 5,200 rpm.
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission (new for 2019, replacing the 6-speed).
• Fuel Economy (EPA estimated):
  • City: 18 mpg
  • Highway: 24 mpg
  • Combined: 21 mpg
• 0-60 mph: Approximately 7.9 seconds, which is competitive for a minivan.
• Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for light trailers.

Trim-Level Features:

• L: The base model includes 17-inch alloy wheels, manual sliding doors, a rearview camera, a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a four-speaker sound system, and Stain-Resistant YES Essentials fabric seats.
• LX: Adds power-folding and heated side mirrors, power-sliding doors, an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and an extra USB port.
• EX: Steps up with 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, a power liftgate, tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a larger 8-inch touchscreen with navigation, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and an upgraded six-speaker sound system. Driver-assistance features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are standard.
• SX: Further enhances luxury with 19-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, a premium eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, a surround-view camera system, and additional driver aids such as forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.
• SXL (SX Limited): The top-tier trim includes chrome exterior accents, premium Nappa leather upholstery, a dual-panel sunroof, second-row lounge seats with winged headrests and leg rests, and the full suite of advanced driver-assistance systems.

2019 KIA Sedona Specifications

Vehicle History Report

What Problems Does the 2019 KIA Sedona Have?

For the 2019 KIA Sedona, frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns are relatively minor compared to some competitors, but certain issues have surfaced among owners and through consumer reporting sites like CarComplaints.com and NHTSA data.

• Power Sliding Door Malfunctions: A recurring complaint across various model years, including the 2019, involves the power sliding doors failing to open or close properly. This can be due to sensor issues, motor failures, or alignment problems, often requiring adjustment or replacement of components.
• Infotainment System Glitches: While the UVO infotainment system is generally user-friendly, some owners have reported occasional freezes, slow responses, or connectivity issues, particularly with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Firmware updates can sometimes resolve these.
• Brake Wear: Some owners have noted premature wear of brake pads and rotors, leading to earlier than expected replacement. This can be influenced by driving habits but has been mentioned enough to be a pattern.
• Suspension/Steering Noises: A smaller number of reports indicate unusual noises coming from the front suspension or steering components, particularly over bumps. This could point to worn bushings or other suspension parts over time.
• HVAC System Issues: While less common, there have been scattered reports of the air conditioning system not cooling effectively or strange odors emanating from the vents.

Recalls: As of early 2024, the 2019 KIA Sedona has had a few notable recalls:

• Recall 20V518000 (October 2020): Pertaining to the trailer hitch wiring harness, which could potentially become contaminated with moisture, leading to an electrical short and increasing the risk of a fire. This recall affected various Kia models.
• Recall 20V734000 (November 2020): Related to potential fuel pump failure due to a damaged fuel pump motor, which could cause a loss of drive power and increase the risk of a crash. This was a broader recall affecting multiple Kia and Hyundai vehicles.
• Recall 23V034000 (January 2023): Involved potential issues with the side curtain airbags failing to deploy properly in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury. This was another widespread recall.

It's crucial for potential buyers to check if all applicable recalls have been addressed by a Kia dealership. Overall, the 2019 Sedona maintains a decent reliability record, but these specific areas warrant attention during pre-purchase inspections.

How long will the 2019 KIA Sedona last?

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2019 KIA Sedona was well-equipped with built-in tech, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features, offering a competitive package in the minivan segment. Even base models featured a solid foundation.

Built-in Tech & Entertainment:

• Infotainment: Standard on the L and LX trims was a 7-inch touchscreen display with Kia's UVO infotainment system, including Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
• Upgraded Infotainment: EX, SX, and SXL trims received an 8-inch touchscreen display with navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, HD Radio, and an improved voice recognition system.
• Audio Systems: A standard 4-speaker system in the L, a 6-speaker system in LX/EX, and a premium 8-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system was standard on the SX and SXL trims, delivering excellent sound quality.
• Connectivity: Multiple USB charging ports (up to four), a 12V power outlet, and an available wireless phone charging pad (EX and above) ensured devices stayed charged.
• Rear-Seat Entertainment (Optional): A dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system with DVD player was an available option on higher trims, perfect for keeping passengers occupied on long trips.

Driver-Assistance & Safety Features:

Kia significantly boosted the Sedona's safety tech for 2019, making many features standard or available on more trims.

• Standard Safety: All models included a rearview camera, traction and stability control, anti-lock brakes, and a full complement of airbags (front, side-curtain, and driver's knee).
• Available Driver-Assistance Features (Standard on higher trims, optional on others):
  • Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) with Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW) (standard EX and above)
  • Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) (standard SX and above)
  • Lane Departure Warning (LDW) (standard SX and above)
  • Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go (adaptive cruise control) (standard SX and above)
  • Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
  • Parking Distance Warning – Forward & Reverse (PDW-F/R)
  • Surround View Monitor (SVM) (standard SX and above), offering a 360-degree bird's-eye view.

Crash-Test Ratings:

• NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration): The 2019 Kia Sedona received an overall 5-star safety rating.
  • Frontal Crash: 5 Stars
  • Side Crash: 5 Stars
  • Rollover: 4 Stars
• IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety): The 2019 Sedona earned "Good" ratings in most crashworthiness tests, including the moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints & seats. It received an "Acceptable" rating in the small overlap front – driver's side test. The standard headlights generally received a "Poor" rating, while available HID headlights received an "Acceptable" rating. For front crash prevention, its available system received a "Superior" rating.

What Colors Options are Available?

2019 KIA Sedona Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2019 KIA Sedona had a starting MSRP range from approximately $27,200 for the base L trim, climbing to over $42,900 for the fully loaded SXL trim, before options and destination charges. In the current used market, prices for a 2019 model typically range from $15,000 to $26,000, depending heavily on trim level, mileage, condition, and optional features. Lower trims with higher mileage will naturally be at the lower end, while well-maintained SX or SXL models with lower mileage will command higher prices.

Minivans, in general, experience moderate depreciation, and the Sedona is no exception. Its depreciation is often slightly higher than top rivals like the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna but still offers a good value proposition as a used vehicle. Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition, a clean title history, complete maintenance records, and the presence of desirable features like advanced driver-assistance systems and premium entertainment options. Color can also play a minor role, with neutral colors often holding value better.

2019 KIA Sedona Cost of Ownership

The 2019 KIA Sedona generally offers reasonable long-term ownership costs, making it a fairly economical choice in its class, though not the absolute cheapest.

• Insurance: Insurance costs are typically average for a minivan, influenced by trim level, driver history, and location. It's usually less expensive to insure than an SUV of similar size.
• Fuel: With an EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined, fuel costs are average for a V6 minivan, trailing hybrid rivals but competitive with other gasoline-powered options. Regular unleaded gasoline is sufficient.
• Maintenance: Routine maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, is standard. Kia's parts are generally affordable, and the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty (for original owners) helps mitigate major repair costs early on.
• Repair: While generally reliable, potential repairs like power sliding door mechanisms or infotainment glitches can arise, but major mechanical failures are not overly common.

Overall, the Sedona is a sensible choice for budget-conscious families, balancing purchase price with ongoing operational expenses.

2019 KIA Sedona Fuel Efficiency

2019 KIA Sedona Safety Rating

2019 KIA Sedona Recalls & Defects

2019 KIA Sedona Insurance

How Does the 2019 KIA Sedona Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2019 KIA Sedona faces stiff competition in the minivan segment, primarily from the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Chrysler Pacifica.

• Performance: The Sedona's 276-hp V6 is powerful and offers competitive acceleration, often feeling more robust than the Sienna's V6 (296 hp) or the Odyssey's V6 (280 hp). The Pacifica also offers a V6 (287 hp) and has a plug-in hybrid option which neither the Sedona nor Odyssey/Sienna offered in 2019. The Sedona's ride is comfortable and stable, but it doesn't match the Odyssey's slightly more agile handling.


• Features: Kia historically packs more features into its vehicles for the price, and the 2019 Sedona is no exception. It offers comparable tech (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, advanced driver aids, premium audio) to rivals, often at a lower trim level or as standard where competitors require an upgrade. The Sedona's "Slide-n-Stow" second-row seats are unique but don't offer the full versatility of the Odyssey's Magic Slide seats or the Pacifica's Stow 'n Go seats, which completely disappear into the floor. The Sienna also lacked stowable second-row seats.


• Reliability: All minivans in this class generally boast good reliability. The Toyota Sienna often leads in perceived long-term reliability due to its reputation, with Honda Odyssey also performing strongly. The Sedona holds its own, though specific issues like power sliding doors or infotainment glitches can be more prevalent than in its Japanese rivals. Kia's warranty is a major selling point for original owners.


• Price: The Sedona traditionally offers a better price point than the Odyssey or Sienna when new, delivering strong value. On the used market, this value proposition often continues, making it an attractive alternative to similarly equipped but more expensive used rivals.

Recommendations for Alternatives:

• Honda Odyssey: For those prioritizing driving dynamics, highly versatile second-row seating (Magic Slide), and a strong resale value, the Odyssey is a top choice.
• Toyota Sienna: If all-wheel drive is a priority (the only minivan to offer it in 2019, besides the Pacifica hybrid, but Sienna was the only non-hybrid), or if maximum long-term reliability and high resale value are paramount, the Sienna is excellent.
• Chrysler Pacifica: Offers the most versatile seating (Stow 'n Go), an optional plug-in hybrid, and competitive features, though its long-term reliability track record can be more variable than Japanese competitors.

The Sedona is a strong contender, especially for buyers looking for excellent features and styling at a more approachable price point without significant compromises.

Final Verdict: Is the 2019 KIA Sedona a Good Wagon?

The 2019 KIA Sedona is an ideal vehicle for families seeking a practical, comfortable, and well-equipped minivan without breaking the bank. It's particularly suited for those who appreciate a more SUV-like exterior styling combined with a premium-feeling interior, especially in higher trims.

It is definitely worth buying, especially as a used vehicle. Its value proposition is strongest on the used market where depreciation has already occurred, offering substantial features and capability for less than a comparable Odyssey or Sienna. Look for EX or SX trims, as they offer the best balance of desirable features (power doors, leather, advanced safety) and value. While its fuel economy isn't class-leading, its robust V6 engine, comprehensive warranty (for subsequent owners, remaining portion), and decent reliability make it a smart family hauler. It might not be the absolute "best" in every single category, but its overall package is compelling for value-conscious buyers.

2019 KIA Sedona Owner Reviews

Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.