2009 Kia Optima Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.55/5 Average
49 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A face-lift for 2009 makes the Kia Optima slightly longer and more aggressive, while a new SX trim level lends a sporty flair with blackout accents and 17-inch alloy wheels. In addition to the visual tweaks, the Optima gains some muscle: the 2.4-liter inline-4 now makes 175 horsepower while the V6 puts out 194 ponies. Inside, the Optima has a new base audio system with satellite radio and a newly available navigation system. Last, standard safety equipment grows as antilock brakes and stability control become standard across the board.

Pros:
  • Excellent crash scores, plenty of standard features at a low price, spacious backseat, generous warranty, surprisingly involving to drive around town.
Cons:
  • V6 offers little advantage over the more efficient inline-4, automatic sometimes slow to downshift.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 49.00
  • 2009 Kia Optima TRANSMISSIONS ON OPTIMAS ARE BAD! - 2009 Kia Optima
    By -

    I had problems with acceleration from the time I bought this new. I was told there wasnt a problem they put it on the computer and there wasnt anything wrong....I am a woman so...it was well we cant find anything wrong. I was charged for the KIA maintenance plan for 5 years...and low and behold at the end of 5 years....they found it needed a new transmission....!!!

  • Very Poor Ride at Highway Speeds - 2009 Kia Optima
    By -

    This car has vibrated since the day I bought it. they have replaced 11 tires and the car still shudders and vibrates going down the highway. Kia rep says its normal. I bought car for the highway mileage, but if you are looking for a smooth highway ride, DO NOT buy a Kia.

  • Good Car - 2009 Kia Optima
    By -

    Had to trade in my Rx-8 (worst car ever) and got this. I loved this car!! Very good gas, and price was not bad at all. Highly recommended for a family car.

  • KIA OPTIMA POOR - 2009 Kia Optima
    By -

    Car codes every spring return to dealership they clear code[multiple misfires] runs fine after several restarts, and say they cant find whats wrong with engine 2.7 V6 which they no longer offer in Optima.The vehicle has had this issue since 10,000 miles and only has 49,000 as of 2013.Dealership or KIA problem?????Rhormans of FT Wayne In.

  • Blown away - 2009 Kia Optima
    By -

    I drove an Accord, Camry Mercedes just to name a few. I drove an Optima and was totally blown away. I would have picked them over the others any but when you throw in the cost it is truly unbelievable. This car has everything you can imagine as options, has road manners that of an Accord. I drove a camry (32,000) comparably equipped. The only thing the kia didnt have was a 3yr, 36000 warranty. The Kia has a 5yr 60000 bumper to bumper and 10 yer 100000 warranty! Very happy!. Cost 20,150

  • Big Mistake !!! - 2009 Kia Optima
    By -

    As soon as I got home, the trunk release button on the door already quit working. The headlights never worked but the high beam headlights. Took it back to the dealer the next day, they couldnt tell why or what is causing the problems. I was told to bring it back next week and leave it for someone else to diagnose the problems. If you or someone you know is looking for a car, please take my advice and stay away from a Kia dealership.

  • Yes, I bought a KIA - 2009 Kia Optima
    By -

    My wife and I have only had our Optima for a couple of days. It is everything that the data says it is. We took it out for a fun run to see how it performs. We put on 140 miles and used approximately 4 gallons, 35 MPG. I couldnt get the wife to quit playing with the SAT radio, she loves it. I felt it was easy to handle in a curve, the visibility was great, the instruments were easy to read and access.

  • I love my new Kia - 2009 Kia Optima
    By -

    I purchased my new Kia in August and even as a former Toyota Camry Driver, I absolutely love it! The price was right and I am constantly turning heads in my new black Kia. I feel like I have one up on the Camry and Honda drivers. The drive is nice, the car is roomy, great on mileage and highly rated for safety. This was the best purchase I could have made.

  • wow - 2009 Kia Optima
    By -

    I truly never thought I would ever buy a foreign car but I have now bought two Kias in 6 mths and love them. The Optima is an inexpensive luxury kind of car. You really do get the bang for the buck with this one. Ford, GM, Chrysler take notice, Kia is here to stay.

  • Home run! - 2009 Kia Optima
    By -

    All I can say is Kia has come a long way in a short time. I bought an sx and a comparably equipped camry or honda was about 11,000 more. I am very happy and plus have the best warranty in the business.

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