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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  Great little car for the downsizer - 2008 Kia Optima
  By bumpergirl - January 7 - 4:16 pm

  I have owned the 2008 Kia Optima for a few weeks now. I understand it may take a while to break in a new car and improve gas mileage. So far I am averaging between 26 and 30 mpg. Highway of course is outstanding. I am overall happy with my purchase. Its somewhat of an adjustment coming down from a Toyota Avalon. However, I am very happy with the balance between luxury and economy in the Kia. The interior and exterior appearance are definitely luxury. The ride and price is definitely economy. So keep that in mind. The experience buying the car was excellent. The best way to work is to put a small deposit on your car, and write up the Purchase and sale, then shop 2-3 dealers. Happy days!

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  Minor incov. make BIG PROBLEMS - 2001 Kia Optima
  By pJ - January 7 - 2:00 am

  Had to take in my car several times for electrical issues, moldings etc. Also received letter from Kia a year later stating the vehicle did not have a 70 hp engine as intially advertised when the vehicle was bought. The letter stated it had a 65 hp engine. Has depreciated and can not compare to similar models in its class do to HP and other factors. Engine ok...slow on start for V6. Will not buy again.

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  What A Great Little Car!!!!!!!!!! - 2008 Kia Optima
  By ExGreenBeret - January 4 - 2:53 am

  I bought my Optima last year when gas was nearing $4/gal. I drive a lot of miles so I sold my 475hp 12mpg Hemi Ram and bought the KIA. I had rented one in the past and was pleasantly surprised so I decided to give it a try. Ive had it a year now, and have put over 40,000 miles on it already. There have been NO major problems, in fact Ive not been back to the dealership for any reason. I change the oil and rotate the tires religiously but thats it. Would I recommend one to a friend? Hell, yes! Would I buy another one? Absolutely!

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  2003 best buy! - 2003 Kia Optima
  By jackdempsey - December 26 - 10:00 am

  For the money you spend, its well worth it. Got an LX, 4 cyl auto for 13.5K out the door. Real deal for a car this good. Still loving it after 5k miles.

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  Nice Front-Poor rear design - 2003 Kia Optima
  By Optimized - December 26 - 10:00 am

  The rear end has a lip that extends out from the trunk. While it looks ok, we only had 2500 miles on it before a hotel luggage handler used it to lay our luggage on it and then proceeded to push suitcase in the trunk. It resulted in a few scratches and a major chip of paint taken off. It should be redesigned to be more flush with the trunk . Load your own luggage, golf clubs to avoid damage.

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  Fuel Pump - 2012 Kia Optima
  By slh2 - December 23 - 6:00 am

  Not too bad of a car other than road noise is pretty loud. It sounds like air leaking in the windows but they say there is nothing wrong with the windows. My fuel pump went out and it was $700 to fix (not covered under the warranty). The tires that come on the car are terrible in rain. I have had to use Synthetic oil since my 2nd oil change because it was low on oil. I am really not happy with this car. I have 80,000 miles on it now and I drive 100 highway miles a day. It doesnt seem like it is going to last as long as my 2003 Toyota Highland that has 299,000 miles on it and never replace the first think except tires, brakes and spark plugs. The toyota was an excellent vehicle!!!!

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  My New Kia Optima - 2004 Kia Optima
  By DrFate - December 14 - 2:00 am

  My new car is extremly comfortable and it drives like a dream. I have purchased the Optima ES with the V6 and Leather trim. The interior is absolutly beautiful and filled with the ammentities of a much more expensive vehicle. For the money I could not find a better car with any better usable power or warranty. My only concern is that as of yet the mileage that is quoted I have yet to see I am only getting about 17 on the highway. But the engine is real strong and pulls away from a dead stop with ease. Thanks for letting me speak.

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  You got to buy this car - 2002 Kia Optima
  By ifront - December 12 - 10:00 am

  The best overall value you can find.

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  Great for the money - 2003 Kia Optima
  By Btnfly30 - December 12 - 9:50 am

  For the money I could not do better. Comfortable, reliable and stylish for 12,000 dollars.

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  Kia v-6 loaded ex model Silver,yeah baby - 2004 Kia Optima
  By Paula C - December 3 - 10:00 am

  This car is great. I take to Harrisburg Pa, adleast 2 times a month, getting better gas each time. Preformace wise it rides like a dream driving on clouds, pa road are bad but htis car makes them feel great. looking at his car is so beuitful, plese go test drive one you will fall in love.. I did. I test drove alot of car before i got his one. under 19,000. fully loaded with a great warrenty where did i go wrong, LOL go see a kia dealer today, youwill not be sorry.. Paula