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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  A lot of car for the money - 2003 Kia Optima
  By Sewwolf - September 4 - 10:00 am

  so far after 3 weeks of ownership there isnt anything I dont like about this car. This is how the big three should learn how to make cars. We looked at a lot of cars in this class and nothing could compare to the Kias for price and warranty.

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  Could not beat this value anywhere... - 2012 Kia Optima
  By astrol - August 27 - 7:16 am

  My wifes new car is a Satin Metal SX w/tour and tech pkgs. and trimmings. She drove both the 2.4 EX and the 2.0T SX and preferred the latter hands down driving the same exact test route and road irregularities. She didnt feel the need to drive the EX w/Turbo after that. For some reason the SX with the Sport tuned suspension actually feels more refined. The car is very new so no long term data from me as of yet but I cannot imagine getting more for your money than what KIA is now offering with the Optima. The overall level of refinement more than makes up for the few hard plastic bits found in parts of the interior. The 2.0T has amazing torque from 1250rpm with no lag. Yikes! Avg. 28 mpg.

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  My Kia - 2008 Kia Optima
  By Karin - August 26 - 2:00 am

  I have nothing bad to say about my Kia Optima. The only thing I dont like is the headlights. They are pointed too low. Its like 20 ft in front of you is bright, then it drops off to total darkness.

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  Great deal and ride! - 2012 Kia Optima
  By Don Heisler - August 22 - 6:05 am

  I got mine way below book and it was one time lease owner so it was taken care of. If you find one treated right it should last. In all makes of vehicles there are bad apples so get an extended warranty because any used car will have parts that fail. Mechanic friend said that kia has come along way and I couldnt be happier. Great sporty luxury car for low price. Fast and very fun K5 edition!

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  Engine Problem - 2013 Kia Optima
  By sms3613 - August 21 - 1:10 am

  So i bought my 2013 Kia Opitma in October of 2013 and I just had to replace my engine this month. Took it to two different dealers and they couldnt diagnose the problem. Finally went to a dealer that could and they told me I needed a new engine. The car isnt even 6 months old and has about 10000 miles on it. Its a great looking car and fun to drive on the weekends. Customer service could be a lot better and helpful.

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  You Get What You Pay For - 2003 Kia Optima
  By James - August 17 - 2:43 pm

  We purchased this car used and we know why the original owner sold it. Although the car drives great, the car has had many electrical problems and the transmission started slipping just after we bought it. Each time we put it in the shop it takes two days to get it back. Electrical problems include headlights, remote entry, radio, and battery draining down if not driven daily. Also, we have had the emissions worked on several times. The steering growls like it is out of fluid but it isnt and the dealer cant find the problem. We like the way it drives but with all the electrical problems, would like to get rid of it. We paid way too much for it, no resale!

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  Incredible Pearl White Finish - 2004 Kia Optima
  By Ben B - August 12 - 10:00 am

  Great value. We love this car. Handles well, comfortable ride, nice touches, like auto dimming mirror, 4-wheel disc brakes, and four airbags standard on the EX. Feels like a luxury car!

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  The headlamps - 2004 Kia Optima
  By The Captain - August 1 - 2:40 am

  The 2004 Optima has an issue with the headlamp lenses. It is sort of a cataract on the lens itself. After a while you will not pass an inspection As I found out and too late they refused to warranty this item since it is there problem, the dealer strung me along to come back and replaced light bulbs. SO that I would have to pay for new lamps Check your Kias and get it done before the warranty is out. I Like the Kia , but do to the poor quality of service networks I will trade for a better brand name next time.

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  traded down from a Sorento - 2009 Kia Optima
  By Shanna - July 31 - 10:26 pm

  Bought car 3 wks ago after buying a Sorento I had 8 wks. This car was suggested by dealership. I highway miles a day so Im a bit dissapointed. My kids are a bit tight w/ 2 boosters & a 13 yr old in back, but its doable and he can buckle ok. The side mirrors are rectangular & takes getting use to, dont feel like I always get good coverage. Powers good & handles huge daily hill ok. The material is CHEAP & pills (balls up on seats). Ill be investing in seat covers! Got silver & it hides dirt well, looks sharp. Happy w/ purchase, wish I had electric seats/sunroof but was upside down & couldnt afford more. overall I dig it.

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  Surprising - 2011 Kia Optima
  By redbruin - July 19 - 3:06 am

  I have had the SX Turbo for a week now and love it. Its a great ride and the power you get with its 4-cylinder engine will surprise you.