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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  2005 Kia Optima EX V6 - 2005 Kia Optima
  By H Gerike - July 16 - 9:16 pm

  Having bought this vehicle only 2 months ago, but in that time I have enjoyed driving it very much. Compared to my previous vehicle, a 1998 Olds Intrigue, my Kia Optima has as much interior room even though its exterior size is smaller. The ride is as comfortable, if not more so, than the Intrigue. The design is also quite striking. I look forward to a long tenure with the Kia Optima.

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  Excellent for the Money - 2007 Kia Optima
  By Aaron - July 12 - 11:33 pm

  I initially thought Kia was a cheap knock off. Then my sister bought one and I drove it and was impressed. I went to the dealer wanting to buy a Spectra but found that the Optima cost not much more, but had so much more to give. I am very impressed with this vehicle. The quality of it is wonderful, I love the interior design, and the ride and quietness of this vehicle is everything you would expect in a luxury car. I am one who likes the manual trans and found one with the four cylinder. All the reviews Ive read give the car poor performance on the highway, but I think its got more power than it needs on the highway. I would recommend this car to my best friend.

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  Best sedan on the market - 2018 Kia Optima
  By Joan Marie - July 8 - 2:40 am

  I love my 2018 Kia Optima! Comfortable, good looking and efficient in so many ways

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  Fine car with a couple of odd quirks - 2012 Kia Optima
  By scrapalara - July 7 - 1:04 am

  600 miles into my 2012 Optima EX w/premium pkg (pano roof, UVO stereo), no NAV. First, Ive read several reviews that say they upgraded to the tech pkg to get the backup camera. With the EX premium pkg, the backup camera was included. Car is quiet and responsive. I have a 60-mile daily commute (one way) and running about 69-70 with the cruise am getting about 32 mpg. Expect this to improve as the car breaks in and the weather warms. A head-turner! Trading up from a loaded 05 Sebring convertible, so, to me, road noise is quiet! Handled 8" of Illinois snow with ease and stability. Very pleased so far!

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  Awesome Car - 2001 Kia Optima
  By New Yorker - July 4 - 10:00 am

  I just had my first child and needed a reliable car that was inexpensive but still looked flashy. (I wasnt ready for the mini van) The Kia Optima is it! The V-6 is a blast to drive especially with the porsche designed tiptronic transmission. When I sit in traffic its on automatic, but when i want to feel the road and the engine, I flip over to manual mode. Tne interior is roomy. I am a 62 and i am very comfortable in the ride. WE just drove to Disney from NY and it was a pleasure. When it comes to styling, people cannot take their eyes off of this car. My boss who owns multiple luxury cars belives it looks like a BMW.

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  Awesome car - 2002 Kia Optima
  By PeterM - June 30 - 10:00 am

  had this car for over a year now, love the milage can go forever it seems with the gas light on. the only major problems ive had is the car lurches when im breaking sometimes and a sensor went out, had the sensor fixed but havent had the breaks checked yet. plenty of room in front and back, im 63 so that says something. dont care for the stock radio, doesnt bring in AM channels well, could get Milwaukee stations in, in MI with my Focus, cant with the Kia

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  Buy American not Korean - 2007 Kia Optima
  By lwa57 - June 29 - 7:40 am

  Bought new. Rear brakes wore unevenly. Down to metal at only 25k miles. Taylor Kia of Boardman says brake pads are not covered by warranty. However, the rear passenger brake is dragging. They claim caliper is ok. Uneven wear between wheels, (3 mm and 0 mm left rear vs 7mm and 3 mm on right rear pads) shows excessive wear on the outside pads. Wear indicator is on the inside pad so damage to rotor can happen before indicator makes noise. The dragging brake explains the poor mileage and sluggish power. Previous posts show a couple rear brake issues. Hmm! KIA called me back and said they stand behind their mechanic. Not warranty issue. So my next car will not be a Kia! Buy American!

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  I love this car! - 2005 Kia Optima
  By rockport3 - June 13 - 1:46 am

  I totaled a Honda Civic, and rented an identical Kia for 2 weeks. I liked it so much I bought one! Compared to the Civic, this car has much greater visibility, greater safety features, and equal economy. The headlights are brighter and covered 1/3 more area, and the Kia is the quietest car I have ever owned, better than a Caprice Classic. The seats are a luxury and I am far safer in this car. I used the balance of the 60,000 mile warranty at 3 different dealers, who were far more courteous than any GM rival! A happier owner you will not find!

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  Loved It! - 2006 Kia Optima
  By LuvMyKia - June 11 - 5:53 pm

  I really loved my Kia. It is so unassuming. I used to be a person who frowned on a Kia. After test driving a few cars and being disappointed with their get up and go (Honda Civic included). The dealer brought the Optima out. I put my foot on the gas and was GONE! Smooth ride, great on gas... I love it!

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  Great car for $ - 2010 Kia Optima
  By lisa522 - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Its a great running car, good on gas. Lots of room on the inside. 3 kids ages 7,9 & 12 also a hubby that is just over 6 feet. Very roomy. It has a big trunk also. We went from a 3rd row seat trailblazer. The trailblazer was good but we would have to put the back seat to travel so the kids had to sit in the bench seat anyways so it doesnt really change with the space we need cause the optima trunk is so big & so much better on gas.