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 car...but mpg - 2013 Kia Optima
  By coliveri - October 20 - 11:15 pm

  I think this car is great. Great handling, acceleration, love the interior and bluetooth, the exterior is sharp and aggressive. BUT the gas mileage is a turn off! Im averaging 26 mpg..on the high way! Ive tried everything. Tried cruse control, driving light footed and watching the instant mpg monitor....all of that with eco mode and still nothing!!! Its becoming very frustrating because first of all this is a 4 cylinder! My old lincoln ls (v8) could get that kind of mileage. Thank god Im leasing this car. Kia stop lying about youre mpg.

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  Not bad - 2001 Kia Optima
  By Roger2 - October 18 - 2:00 am

  It is a pretty good car for its price.

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  2004 Optima EX 2.4L - 2004 Kia Optima
  By scrdn - October 18 - 2:00 am

  Just bought the car on 12/05. So far the only "problem" is how to program the homelink to open my garage door. Very good build quality

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  FROM A NIGHTMARE TO AN OPTIMA - 2011 Kia Optima
  By d2dv - October 17 - 9:52 am

  I had a Land Rover Discovery that was a constant pain that wouldnt go away. Now I have an OPTIMA and I couldnt be happier. I test drove the Accord, Camry, Focus, Cruze, and others... OPTIMA is hands down the best out of any of these. Tons of features are included in even the base model. I got the extended 100K bumper to bumper warranty just for added piece of mind and I still paid under $25K out the door. Already have 2000 miles and I am averaging 29 mpg!! Less than the stated mpg but much better than the 11mpg I was getting on the Rover. Im probably getting the KIA Sportage when our minivan finally gives up.

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  Great Car 2011 EX Turbo fully loaded - 2011 Kia Optima
  By we_will_see - October 16 - 1:29 pm

  This truly is a very nice car. Is it perfect no but unless you want to spend $80,000 plus. This car is a great value, have the premium package with nav etc. Have had for over a month with 3,455 miles. Took two trips with it one 2 hours one 6 hours and it drives great on the highway. I got 34.8 mpg. The front drivers seat is a little stiff and could use more padding and the ride is a little firm but you get use to it. A bit to much plastic inside but over all it looks rather up scale. Getting about 22 mpg in the city. Dispite what I have read its very quite and I dont hear the road noise from the tires. The engine runs smooth, shifts smooth and it can move with the turbo.

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  Decent Cheap Car - 2004 Kia Optima
  By 2004 Kia Optima LX - October 15 - 1:26 am

  I bought this car with 40k miles on it. It now has almost 105k and I havent had any major problems with it. I have kept up on my maintenance so that probably helps. I just had to have my alignment fixed because my tires kept popping, but that was only $50. If you keep up with the maintenance this car should last you!

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  Surprised! - 2009 Kia Optima
  By Mary - October 12 - 8:53 am

  Never thought Id be owning a KIA! Having grown up w/muscle cars and graduating into US model high end, fully loaded cars, I never thought. Had this car only one day but thoroughly enjoy it. Husband likes it too, so its not just a "girl" car. Its fun to drive, gas mileage is great, and my dealerships service is outstanding to the point of agreeing to replace head light assemblies that were strangely scratched, to the tune of $800 THEIR cost! Salesman was great, got financial approval in 5 min. and look forward each day to driving my Kia somewhere! Oh, the price I got for a fully loaded car was nothing short of amazing, too. Great job Keffer Kia, Mooresville, NC!

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  Optima LX - 2004 Kia Optima
  By ghicks50 - October 12 - 2:00 am

  Financing was great! Thru KIA. Car has excellent style & design. I was really surprised at the performance! Pretty fast for a sedan. Overall I was very pleased with the car. KIAs have a reputation for a cheap transportation car but this is a luxury car

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  PLEASANT SURPRISE - 2009 Kia Optima
  By JC - October 7 - 4:03 pm

  Bought this car during clunkers program.Drove out at $12k,and dealer added bonus 25k miles to warranty. Liked the look and price. I am glad I decided to check this car out. I am at 8K miles and still pleased. No issues at all. I think the KIA reputation is growing. This is a lot of car for the money. Gas mileage was as stated 24/33.Does what I got it for - to get around and save gas, add to that: cruise,sat radio,cd, auto trans, steering wheel controls, abs all round, fold down rear seats, great warranty and more - all standard. WOW!! Hard to beat! One wonders why these vehicles dont retain their value longer. No matter,plan to keep it for a while.

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  Great value. - 2008 Kia Optima
  By Dana Walters - October 3 - 7:50 am

  Great value, makes you feel as if you spent $23,000-28,000. Very nice well thought out car.