Overview & Reviews

For 2012, the Kia Optima receives the optional Uvo voice command system on all but the base models and a minor shuffling of features between trim levels and option packages. The front seats have also been slightly reshaped for improved comfort.

• Lengthy warranty.
• Impressive value
• Powerful and fuel-efficient engines
• Good ride/handling balance
• Handsome cabin
• Top crash scores
• Copious features

• Disappointing real-world fuel economy and driving experience for hybrid
• Numb steering.
• Can be tight on headroom

User Reviews:

Showing 51 through 60 of 111.00

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  Dont be fooled by the Badge - 2012 Kia Optima
  By thorlo - June 2 - 3:50 am

  I have owned Dozens of new cars, including,7/ VWs,3/BMWs,3/Audis,2/Acuras,1/Jag& a M-B. All were special in their own way, But as far as Packaging, performance, style, funtion, and safety rating (NHTSA/IIHS), My 2012 Kia Optima SX, is by far the best car Ive ever Owned. it feels as solid as any of them. And on my trip From Texas to Va. I got 33 true MPG, at speeds somewhat above those posted. so a word to the wise car shopper, Dont be fooled by the Badge.

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  Exterior matched the interior - 2012 Kia Optima
  By bradwoods - May 26 - 5:45 pm

  Classic body style matches the luxury interior. Completely blown away with what this car offers. I was hesitant going in because I didnt know what to expect from a brand of car that people considered less than desirable. Kia is on the move baby! Its an head turner. So far so good on gas. Plenty of power. A 4 cylinder w/dual exhaust...KOOL. This car has all the bells and whistles. It fits to your comfort. Youll understand after you check it out. Go see Greg Kelly at Kia East. Great guy, not pushy and he owns an Optima too. Believes in what he says and says what he believes.

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  great car - 2012 Kia Optima
  By Tim - May 20 - 5:53 pm

  I now have 61,000 miles (3.8yrs) on my LX. Im 63 and I love the driver seat comfort. My wife on the other hand is 53" and the front passenger seat is way too low for her. We have had to buy a cushion so she feels comfortable seeing out. Tires wore out in 30K miles and were terrible in the snow. I now have Generals on it and they are great. I had the right front ball joint replaced under warranty at 55K miles. Im a little concerned about the left front now. It gets great gas mileage! Trips to Pittsburgh net me 37MPG (660 miles 72 MPH, cruise on, ECO on) and I consistently get 29-30 mpg in my every day driving. Has a nice large trunk that is great for trips, enough for the luggage and all the thing my wife buys. Over all a great car and would buy one again. 9/15/16 - still a great car. Had to have the left front wheel bearing replace at 71467 miles. It was covered under warranty!

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  The Shadow knows... - 2012 Kia Optima
  By emeraldsky - October 31 - 2:37 am

  Just bought this Blk Cherry 2012 Optima-and Im feelin fine on a dime with purple all mine. An extremely good value. This is a sweet dream. Seriously rides like velvet. Lovin the extras-Bluetooth, etc, ETC. Seats extremely comfortable in soft leather with plenty room for this 510 frame of mine. I feel like Im riding a La-z-boy down the road! But theres nothing lazy about this boy! Even w/o the turbo this car has quick, smooth response. You wont be left pounding the wheel for anything...save gas milage...I give high marks for it, but it has yet to break the 30 mph mark and KIA has to advertise truer data here. Oh well, my car is new and not on the Hwy much-maybe get there.

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  3 Weeks In and Loving It - 2012 Kia Optima
  By gscott04 - October 11 - 12:01 am

  I wanted something different. Ever since i saw the new Optima on a dealership lot I was intrigued. Ultimately traded in an old Volvo wagon for a loaded up Optima SX Turbo. I am not disappointed. Really love the looks and all the technology and creature comforts. Cant think of too many things this car doesnt have and for the price it just delivers a boatload of value. You can nitpick if you want... I see others complain about road noise and less than optimum build quality but I dont have an issue. I love this car and would buy it again. I feel like I got an amazing car for the money.

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  Good car so far - 2012 Kia Optima
  By Chris - October 2 - 4:32 pm

  Car now has 52k on it, bought 3+ years ago with 20k from a chevy dealer. Wheel alignment at 49k just before I got new Dunlaps. A very low cost to own car. Seats are somewhat low. Mpg high 20s to 35 at highway speeds. Mpg go down after 65mph. The dealer always trys to sell me a cabin and air filter for $75. Read the manual and do it yourself and save.

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  Best Car Ever - 2012 Kia Optima
  By schadaz - September 16 - 6:13 pm

  Very impressed with gas mileage and safety features.

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  WOW WHAT A CAR! - 2012 Kia Optima
  By beafantoo - June 4 - 6:08 am

  I am 62 weigh 315 lbs and this car wows me to no end. Great looking car, great comfortable car, very nice styling. My car has the tech package and nav..I would recommend this car to everybody.. I am getting about 27.8 mpg with most of my driving in the city, I purchased the car 3 weeks ago and have put 1000. miles on it already, very responsive around turns with great handling. Very fast for a 4cyl. you wont go wrong buying this car..

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  WOW!! It is a KIA!!!! - 2012 Kia Optima
  By mrvega - May 30 - 1:27 am

  Purchased my 2012 SX 3 weeks ago and I am truly amazed. It doesnt feel or look like a KIA. The ride is very smooth yet sporty. Quieter and more stable at speed than my mothers 2009 Camry SE V6 even though the SE V6 feels like it accelerates quicker yet handles and feels better than the Camry. The style is elegant yet sporty (Many people compliment the exterior and interior). Even though it is a 4 cylinder, because of the turbo, it doesnt feel sluggish especially at slower speeds. Gas mileage could be better. It is returning 18-19 City hwy around 28 The style in my opinion looks much better than the Mazda 6, New Camry, Sonata, Accord, Malibu, and more expensive cars.

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  KIA is the brand to watch!!! - 2012 Kia Optima
  By karkonnoisseur - May 8 - 9:14 pm

  I have 374 miles on my Spicy Red KIA Optima SX T-GDI with premium/technology packages. This car not only draws constant stares and looks of admiration but I had someone at the Gas station who was driving a brand new BMW Xdrive 3 series coupe tell me he had to look twice because he couldnt believe the car was a KIA. Segment leading performance, styling, and value! Ive never felt so great about owning a new car. I traded in my 2009 Audi A5 for this car. I DO NOT regret it. I needed a sporty family car and KIA DID NOT disappoint!