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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  BEST LUXURY CAR FOR THE MONEY! - 2002 Kia Optima
  By topgunner - December 17 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Optima used,with 20000 on it, fully loaded for 13 grand plus tax. considered buying new, but the resale value isnt there.YET!The cars leather interior is rich.This car has plenty of goodies.Rides and looks like a 30+ grand car.It is quiet and comfy.Rides smooth but if you like power and refinement go with the v6 its worth the extra grand.I never thought I would ever own a Kia. Never say never.I really enjoy driving this car.GO Kia!

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  Reason why it needs 100,000 mile warranty - 2012 Kia Optima
  By DEBRA GREEN - December 13 - 6:25 pm

  This car I bought new it has needed so many things replaced. Eat tires going on my 4th set and dealership says noting wrong with car dont know why it wears tires so quickly. Yeah warranty is great its the constant inconvenience of having to take in for repairs. Never will buy or recommend Kia ever

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  3000 miles and running - 2012 Kia Optima
  By mrvega - December 1 - 7:37 pm

  3000 miles later and I am still impressed with my Optima sx turbo. Driving a bit faster than Highway speeds 80-90mph it feels very stable, relatively quiet, it feels like you are doing 20-25 mph slower. If you hit the gas from 75-100 it feels like its running out of steam. Sound system- Very good (however streaming is poor) Bluetooth- Poor (my 2011 Camaro BT was thousand times better) This cuts out and I have to reconnect. Sirius Satelite radio still stops working under bridges and gas station where my xm in my camaro never failed. Suspension-Feels great, not floaty It was a great purchase. I would like to see a future comparision with the 2013 Nissan Altima 3.5 and the next Mazda 6

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  nice for the price - 2003 Kia Optima
  By kink - December 1 - 10:00 am

  I have enjoyed my new KIA. I love the pickup when I punch it. The ride is smooth and quiet.

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  Im loving this car - 2008 Kia Optima
  By Carolann - November 29 - 3:43 am

  This car is perfect for my needs. It gets great fuel economy, has surprising zip for having a 4-cyl, and is very roomy. It feels comparable to a Camry/Accord. Not quite as luxurious maybe, but really excellent quality for the value. Comfortable ride for my passengers and lots of included features in just the base model that youd have to pay for upgrade in other cars. Id definitely purchase another one of these. Very impressed, did not disappoint at all.

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  Best bang for the buck, hands down - 2013 Kia Optima
  By jestmaty1 - November 28 - 10:35 am

  10 months and just shy of 9,000 miles and this car is getting better every day! Quick, stylish, and just plain fun to drive

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  Im a KIA lover now! - 2004 Kia Optima
  By Tess68 - November 27 - 5:50 am

  My car just hit 68,000, besides a few dings (by others!) I have had no problems, just the rotors replaced. This has been a dependable family car, I drive 20 miles to work everyday through snow, ice, rain, and nice days without a problem. I am a very nervous person on the road in the Winter and this car has been great to me! Starting to make some rattles, and steering shake, I am praying this wont be a problem. I hear after 40-50,000 KIAS are having problems. Anybody out there have any as of yet with this year?

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  Just one week, but... - 2010 Kia Optima
  By Marla - November 23 - 10:00 am

  I love my Optima. Purchased a 2010 Optima on 10/30/10, and 500 miles later, its great. I am a short woman, and its a comfy drive for me, as well as a comfy ride. My husband is 6, my sons are 510" and 57", and they can all sit very comfortably in the back seat, too (fabulous rear leg room!). Just enough toys to make me happy, but not so many cool electronic gadgets that Ill worry about one breaking. I really love the Sirius radio, the cruise control works flawlessly, and the controls for both on the steering wheel are great.

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  Kia Optima - 2005 Kia Optima
  By Tim A - November 23 - 6:46 am

  I never thought I would own a KIA. After looking at the Mazada 3, and 6, the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry there was no comparison when you looked at what you got for your dollar. I am very satisfied with my dollar return, crash ratings and most importantly the warranty that was standard. Great car for the value. Look out Honda and Toyota.

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  Great family car on a budget - 2007 Kia Optima
  By ps13_99 - November 7 - 1:10 pm

  Bought New in 2007 since standard safety features like curtain airbags, stability control etc were unavailable on other more pricey sedans. No problems at all with the car, just with the driver. Very roomy. Im 64 and am very impressed with the leg, and knee room. Steering wheel audio controls are great, intuitive. Very smooth transmission. Great headlights, halogen etc. I should have gotten the sunroof. Would definetily look for a used one if this one gets wrecked. Cant beat Kia or Hyundai for the money. Easily competes with camry. Highly recommended.