Overview & Reviews

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.

• Excellent crash scores, plenty of standard features at a low price, spacious backseat, generous warranty, surprisingly involving to drive around town.

• V6 offers little advantage over the more efficient inline-4, automatic sometimes slow to downshift.

User Reviews:

Showing 31 through 40 of 49.00

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  Great Car - 2009 Kia Optima
  By nick - November 17 - 12:10 am

  Never thought Id buy a KIA, but thought Id take a look and was really surprised. If you want a V6, move on, but the 2.4L 4-cylinder is more than competitive with the smooth automatic. (Surprisingly, much better power than Mazda 6i, which I tested just before.) The SX trim level offers sharp handling for a sedan, and its something different than yet another Accord or Camry with more features for 1000s less. The build quality, noise levels, and ride are all better than expected with no problems so far. The warranty is impressive. This car will certainly convert those KIA haters (like me a year ago), and folks often ask me if thats an Audi I drive, which Ill take as a compliment.

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  Best car for the money in a long time - 2009 Kia Optima
  By Elmo - October 11 - 7:36 pm

  I am 60 and cars have always been a hobby of mine. I decided to trade in my HHR due to rusting and other problems. I have looked at many cars and drove several and I like this car over the camry and accord, witch cost 10000 more comparably equipped. I chose the SX 4cyl model and so far I am totally delighted. Who knows what the future brings but so far excellent! I never thought I would buy a Kia but, I have to say they have come a long way.

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  Good deal! - 2009 Kia Optima
  By great car! - May 13 - 9:33 pm

  My husband and I always bought American cars. We looked around, test drove many. For the value and what you get, you cant go wrong! We traded a big SUV we could not afford any more thanks to our changing economy and purchased this car and we cant say enough! Comfortable ride, good on fuel, nice looks. Get the convenience package with it.

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  Love My new Opitima! - 2009 Kia Optima
  By SafetyFirst - March 23 - 8:13 am

  Just bought my second Kia Optima and I couldnt be more pleased. The exterior looks awesome and is a big improvement. I bought another Optima after having driven an 05 for 3 years and never having to take it in for repairs. This car is so much fun to drive and I plan to have it for a very long time!

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  Watch the car mileage - 2009 Kia Optima
  By airport kia - March 1 - 10:36 am

  The Optima is a beautiful car both on the interior and exterior. The new 4 cyl engine stuggles while driving in the city.It get only 15-17 mph city which makes it a clunker. The driver seat is very un comfortable. After driving the new Chevolet Malibu, I realize I bought the wrong car. I can live with this car but would not recomend it to family and friends. The engine is a underperformer. To compare the Optima to the Camary is like rating a race horse versus a donkey. All the features on the car work excellent. The red lighting on the dash get annoying after a while. And what is with the 16 inch wheels?

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  120,000 miles - 2009 Kia Optima
  By Lawrence Baye - January 30 - 12:57 am

  6 years and 120,000 later, I have not had to have the car repaired for anything except for headlight. I replaced both, but did not by bulbs from dealer. Do maintenance on schedule. I live in a very rural area so very few stop signs and traffic lights and most roads have 55 MPH limit so not much wear and tear on car compared to city living. I am 5 8" and 190 lbs so no problem with driving comfort. We also own a 2015 Optima.

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  Very First Foreign Car! - 2009 Kia Optima
  By swineheart - January 17 - 9:19 am

  Ive always owned American cars, I am a Vet and felt bad about not supporting American auto makers. Ive owned Chevys, Fords and Olds. I Love my KIA Optima! I bought it due to the cost of gas and the options on the car. For the money, you cant go wrong. It has a high safety rating, roomy interior, good stereo options and best of all great EPA rating for a midsize sedan. Its comfortable on the highway and zips around town. If you are in the market for a sedan thats affordable and still fun to drive, I highly recommend the Optima.

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  Another Great Kia - 2009 Kia Optima
  By Chris - October 30 - 8:36 am

  Before I purchased my Optima I had a 2008 Kia Spectra in which was a great car. When I traded in I had 47k miles no problem what so ever. I went to the dealership to get an oil change when I saw that 2009 Optima Midnight Blue and it was love at first sight. The price, style and performance are great. First look at this car and you would say thats a car that is in the 30k range. My optima was in the low 20s and with the rebates and the fact that I was a current Kia owner that made the rebates even greater. I would say Kia is my car of chose hands down. Kia keep on keeping on.

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  kia optima - 2009 Kia Optima
  By rar - April 5 - 6:26 am

  I never thought I would buy a kia product but I am glad I did. I hit a home run, when I purchased my Kia Optima. This vehicle is much better than the Accord or Camery. I have owned both other vehicles and there is no comparison. The warranty and safety is 3 times better. I only paid $13,9000 (new) and I jump on the deal. This has got to be the best deal I have ever made on a vehicle. Last I would say this vehicle is so under-rated.

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  Surprised! - 2009 Kia Optima
  By Mary - October 12 - 8:53 am

  Never thought Id be owning a KIA! Having grown up w/muscle cars and graduating into US model high end, fully loaded cars, I never thought. Had this car only one day but thoroughly enjoy it. Husband likes it too, so its not just a "girl" car. Its fun to drive, gas mileage is great, and my dealerships service is outstanding to the point of agreeing to replace head light assemblies that were strangely scratched, to the tune of $800 THEIR cost! Salesman was great, got financial approval in 5 min. and look forward each day to driving my Kia somewhere! Oh, the price I got for a fully loaded car was nothing short of amazing, too. Great job Keffer Kia, Mooresville, NC!