The 2017 Kia Sedona SX 3.3L V6 gets 21 MPG combined. Minivan buyers aren’t expecting Prius-like efficiency, but families choosing the Sedona are pragmatic. They need space, comfort, and features, and they’re willing to accept modest fuel economy as part of the deal. The Sedona SX delivers, providing many features, a surprisingly stylish design, and a comfortable ride for up to eight passengers. Its V6 engine is powerful enough, but its gas mileage won’t win any awards.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 2017 Kia Sedona SX fuel economy at 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure shouldn’t be a surprise. This is a large vehicle, and stop-and-go driving reduces gas mileage. The 3.3L V6 needs to work harder to get the Sedona moving from a standstill repeatedly. On the open road, the 25 MPG rating is more respectable and achievable if you drive carefully. Remember that a fully loaded Sedona, especially with passengers and luggage, will see those highway numbers dip closer to city levels. Check SEDONA MPG across all years to see how the numbers evolved. Across the Kia lineup, see all Kia fuel economy data.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Kia Sedona SX at $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. Your personal fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. Consider it a helpful benchmark, but a guide rather than a precise prediction. It’s also based on the assumption that regular-grade gasoline is used, which is the recommendation for the Sedona SX.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a solid basis for comparison, real-world fuel economy can differ significantly. Sedona owners report that achieving the published 25 MPG highway figure is possible, but requires careful driving. Aggressive acceleration and frequent braking will quickly reduce fuel efficiency. City MPG often hovers around the EPA estimate, but extended idling or consistent short trips can easily lower it. Don’t expect hybrid-like numbers in everyday use. The Sedona is a competent minivan, but it prioritizes space and utility over fuel efficiency leadership.

How it compares

The Honda Odyssey, a popular minivan, achieves 19 MPG city and 28 MPG highway, a difference that could matter to some buyers. The Chrysler Pacifica, especially in hybrid form, has significantly better fuel economy, as the hybrid Pacifica earns an EPA combined rating of 82 MPGe. However, the Pacifica Hybrid costs more. The Toyota Sienna, like the Sedona, returns fuel economy numbers in the same ballpark: around 19 City / 27 Highway with its V6 engine. These comparisons show where the Sedona stands in the market. It doesn’t lead in fuel economy, but it’s competitive enough for buyers who prioritize other factors.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 3.3L V6 in the Sedona provides ample power, but accelerating hard wastes fuel. Accelerate smoothly and gradually to maintain good gas mileage.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the Sedona adds weight, forcing the engine to work harder and consumer more fuel. Remove any items from the vehicle that you don’t need regularly.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. If you anticipate stopping for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine to save fuel. This is especially useful in school pick-up lines.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long highway drives. However, avoid using it in hilly terrain, as the transmission may frequently downshift, negating the benefits.