Only 1 Kia Makes the Best 10-Year Old Used Cars for the Money, According to New Study
Most cars built in the last 10 years have lifespans of over 200,000 miles. That makes getting a used car with around 100,000 miles on the odometer a worthwhile investment, especially if you’re trying to spend less on your transportation needs. So let’s look at the only Kia model that made the list of best 10-year-old used cars for the money.
The best 10-year-old used cars
iSeeCars takes a unique approach to finding the best 10-year-old used car values by ranking them based on the “Price per 1k Miles” of the remaining lifespan in miles.
For example, the average 10-year-old used car has a potential lifespan of 233,402 miles with 101,571 miles remaining and an average price of $15,902, equating to a “Price per 1k Miles” of $157. However, the Kia Sedona has a lower-than-average “Price per 1k Miles” of $110.
The 10-year-old used Kia Sedona
The iSeeCars study lists the 10-year-old Kia Sedona’s potential lifespan at 208,615 miles, with the average individual Sedona retaining 42.1% of its potential or 87,747 miles.
Dividing its average cost of $9,640 by the 87.7k remaining lifespan miles results in the listed $110 “Price per 1k Miles.” As always, costs will vary based on location, trim level, and individual vehicle condition.
Kia Sedona changes to note through the years
The second-generation Kia Sedona debuted in 2006, with midcycle refreshes in 2011 and 2014, just ahead of the third generation’s debut in 2015. A new engine and transmission, lighter suspension components, and more robust steel body panels reduced the Sedona’s weight by about 400 pounds while increasing horsepower from 195 hp to 250 hp.
The 2011 Sedona got another power boost with the new 3.5-liter V6 that made 271 hp while still getting 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Those are decent numbers for a seven-passenger minivan, but reviews continue to mention subpar interior finishes and unattractive exterior style despite the occasional exterior update.
The 2012 Sedona saw no changes, and the absent 2013 Sedona leaves the 2014 model year as the last of the second-generation models.
Is a 10-year-old Kia Sedona worth owning?
Car Complaints lists the 2002 Kia Sedona as the “Worst Model Year” due to expensive engine problems, but among models around 10 years old, engine problems continue with more owners reporting issues. Conversely, among Sedonas ranging from 8 to 15 years old, the 2009 and 2010 model years received the fewest owner complaints.
While the 2012 Sedona received a high number of complaints, most issues revolve around the sliding side door, with only a few concerning the engine. However, as with any substantial purchase, it’s critical to perform your due diligence by having the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before making the deal.
An inspection of any 10-year-old Sedona should include a thorough review of the sliding door mechanism and the drivetrain. Otherwise, if you’re willing to live with its lackluster interior and minivan body style, the Sedona represents a good value for a used car.
