Overview & Reviews

For much of its life, the Kia Optima had been firmly pegged as an also-ran vehicle. Introduced as Kia's first midsize sedan, the first-generation Optima couldn't promise the refinement, documented reliability and assured resale value of its key Japanese competitors. The second-generation Kia Optima followed much the same anonymous playbook, though with considerably better results.

The third-generation Kia Optima, however, is a different animal entirely. With sleek styling, plenty of standard features, potent engine choices and substantial value, the current Optima stands as a top pick for a midsize family sedan.

Current Kia Optima
Under the skin, the current Kia Optima is very similar to the Hyundai Sonata, but to Kia's credit, the Optima has a distinctive European flair to it. Inside and out, the Optima looks and feels like a much more expensive car than its humble price tag would suggest. Optimas are available in four trim levels: LX, EX, SX (standard and turbocharged variants) and SX Limited. There's also the Optima Hybrid, which comes in a single trim.

Optima LX and EX models are powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 200 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual is standard on the LX, while a six-speed automatic is optional and standard on all other Optimas. The SX and SX Limited boast a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 274 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque.

The Kia Optima Hybrid is powered by a four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with an electric motor. Combined output comes to 206 peak hp and it's sent through a six-speed automatic. The EPA estimates the Hybrid will achieve 36 mpg in combined driving.

Standard equipment on the LX includes alloy wheels, air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a stereo with a CD player, satellite radio and an iPod/USB interface. The EX and Hybrid also include keyless ignition and entry, automatic climate control and leather upholstery. The SX is equipped similarly to the EX but adds 18-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded gauges (with integrated display screen) and paddle shifters. The SX turbo also comes with xenon headlights. The Limited's perks include a panoramic sunroof, a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, a blind-spot monitor, the Uvo voice-command system, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, upgraded audio and a navigation system.

In reviews, we've found that the Optima stands out thanks to its distinctive styling and upscale interior. Headroom is a bit limited, however, and taller drivers would be well advised to test the car with and without the sunroof. On the road, the Optima has a pleasant ride quality without feeling too isolated. The base engine will likely satisfy the vast majority of drivers, while the turbo is the pick for more spirited pilots. The Hybrid, however, is a bit of a disappointment. Its braking and acceleration in city traffic is uneven and somewhat unpredictable, and fuel economy trails that of competing hybrid sedans.

Used Kia Optima Models
Introduced for 2011, the current Kia Optima represents the third generation. This version is a dramatic departure from earlier Optimas due to its sharp styling, powerful engine lineup and upscale features. Since its debut, changes were minimal for the first few years. An EX Turbo trim level was offered for 2011 and '12 only. The voice command system (Uvo) debuted for '12, while the SX Limited trim debuted for 2013.

Shoppers should note that these earlier third-generation Optimas lack the current version's updated front and rear styling, revised front seats (for greater comfort) and new display screens. They also can't be had with some newer features, such as keyless ignition and entry, a blind-spot monitoring system and rear parking sensors.

Kia's second-generation Optima was produced from 2006-'10. Shoppers should be aware that the generation switch-over happened midway through the 2006 calendar year. Kia sold some first-generation models for '06 and then released the new sedan as the "2006.5" Optima.

At the end of this generation, the Kia Optima was offered in three trim levels: base, EX and SX. All came with a 175-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder as standard. The EX and SX could be had with a 194-hp 2.7-liter V6. A five-speed manual transmission was standard on the LX. Optional on the LX and standard on the EX and SX was a five-speed automatic transmission.

The automatic-equipped LX came reasonably well equipped with air-conditioning, full power accessories, antilock brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. The EX provided leather upholstery, while the SX came with a sport-tuned suspension.

Although the base four-cylinder provided class-competitive acceleration, the Optima's V6 was disappointing. It was significantly smaller and less powerful than other six-cylinders in the class. This Optima was reasonably fun to drive around town and provided a smooth ride quality, though many of its class contemporaries did a better job of isolating occupants from bumps and ruts.

This second-generation Optima had a few changes during its time. The most significant of these came in 2009, where the model received more distinctive styling and more power. The SX trim level also debuted. Previously, the 2.4-liter four-cylinder produced 161 hp, while the 2.7-liter V6 produced 185 hp. The other notable change came in 2008, when antilock brakes and stability control were made standard across the lineup.

The first-generation Kia Optima midsize sedan debuted for the 2000 model year. Mechanically, this model was very similar to the Hyundai Sonata of the time. Although it didn't include the finest-quality interior materials, it was well-suited for commuter duty thanks to a spacious cabin and comfortable ride quality.

First-generation models didn't have stability control or head curtain airbags, and four-cylinder models lacked the availability of antilock brakes. In road tests, we thought the 149-hp four-cylinder engine was a bit short in power and refinement. While the 170-hp V6 didn't inspire thrills, it was smooth and quiet, and offered better acceleration for highway merging than the four-cylinder.

For 2002, the V6 was updated to provide 178 hp. In its third model year (2003), the Kia Optima's front end was restyled (with rather dubious results). Improvements to the interior included a new center stack, door panels and fresh seat fabric. In addition, Kia began to offer Sportmatic manual-shift capability on four-cylinder automatic Optimas. Buyers might also notice that horsepower figures were revised downward that year due to a change in measurement technique, but actual output was unchanged.

User Reviews:

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  Blown away - 2009 Kia Optima
  By carman09 - January 7 - 8:16 pm

  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

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  Solid Car for the $$$ - 2004 Kia Optima
  By grinder - January 7 - 2:00 am

  I love this car! For the money I paid, I felt like I was stealing this car from the dealer!! Great warranty. Lots of power. Decent milage. Solid and (so far) reliable.

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  What fun! - 2011 Kia Optima
  By richie46 - December 30 - 11:47 am

  Weve had it 2 weeks, 800 miles. Great car, especially considers all the features vs. cost. In shopping, this was the first we tried. Then drove Accord and Fusion. Optima easily surpassed those. Were were going to look at Mazda6, Altima and Camry too, but we liked the Optima so much we decided to curtail shopping.

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  Best 2008 value - 2008 Kia Optima
  By Matt - December 28 - 4:26 am

  The chrome looks very nice with the black and the tan interior is very nice. Everyone thinks it’s a more expensive car than it really is. I am 6’1”/250 lbs and I am satisfied with this mid size vehicle and all my friends say the same. The trunk is quite large and the only thing I don’t like about the interior is the backseat head rests: they block the view when you’re attempting to switch lanes pretty bad. The gas mileage is a little disappointing. It’s a mid size thus it’s a bit light and drives light and especially in the elements.

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  Big Mistake !!! - 2009 Kia Optima
  By Chad - December 24 - 6:00 am

  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.

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  Yes, I bought a KIA - 2009 Kia Optima
  By donald09 - December 19 - 5:33 pm

  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.

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  GREAT INEXPENSIVE LUXURY CAR - 2006 Kia Optima
  By Susan M. - December 16 - 3:40 pm

  I recently bought the 2006.5 new style Kia Optima LX. Considering that Ive only had it less than a week, its still very new and I cant say just yet about the gas consumption. I do love the new style of the Optima over previous years. It looks like a very expensive luxury sedan. The Kia has LOTS of standard features that are options on the much higher prices competitors. This car has so much on it for the low cost compared to other manufacturers. So far I am totally enjoying my Optima and rate it highly! If you are looking for an inexpensive, great looking inside and outside, great driving luxury sedan, go for the 2006.5 Optima.

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  What a Suprise!! - 2003 Kia Optima
  By l24k2g - December 14 - 10:00 am

  I went to KIA just to take a look Because I travel 25000 miles a year and I needed a car with warrenty. I was supprised the engine is spunky for a small engine, the interior is practical and the Price is right not to mention the warrenty. I love my KIA! Only time will tell how much..

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  Excellent V-6 Value - 2003 Kia Optima
  By Dvweb - December 14 - 10:00 am

  My last auto was a Chevy Prizm which was a very nice car overall. This Kia is both prettier, faster, and better designed overall than previous autos owned by me. The V6 is quiet while fun to drive. Plenty of power and I like the 4 speed automatic with the Sport manual shift. The ride is soft but not bad. Handles well with the 15" Michelin tires. Very happy with the build quality of this Kia Optima and the many features that are standard. Very happy with this purchase and highly recommend the Kia Optima to others looking for a midsize auto. Very nice!

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  seeking college students - 2002 Kia Optima
  By optimagyrl - December 14 - 10:00 am

  At first when my uncle pointed out the car to me I was like ugh Kia? Not good cars. One thing that I love about this car is the warranty. 100,000 mile warranty! If you are a college student or on the run with a medium price range choose the Kia Optima. I have had no major problems and all Kia asks me when I have minor problems is the mileage. I work with service writers at different car lots and it just doesnt move that simply. Car could be a little less shakier at 90 m.p.h. (if you go that fast)I give Kia Optima a A-.