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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  2004 Kia Optima Great Car - 2004 Kia Optima
  By Cptterry - August 7 - 1:20 pm

  Bought this car new! Have had no major problems at all. Key to any car performing to your expectations..... Maintenance, follow the schedule. I have replaced tires once at 60 K along with timing belt with required maintenance. Oil and filter EVERY 3,000 miles. 2 head lamp builds an 1 set of brake pads ( Front ) I will buy another Kia again! I worked for a GM dealer for 21 years .. thought we built great cars..... NOT!

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  WE LIKE IT ALOT - 2003 Kia Optima
  By CLAY - July 30 - 10:00 am

  WEVE OWNED ACCORDS AND CAMERYS AND THIS IS RIGHT UP THERE WITH THEM. THE RIDE IS BETTER, THE TRANSMISSION ISNT AS GOOD, THE STYLE IS MUCH BETTER AND THE WARRANTY BUMPER TO BUMPER PUTS THE OTHERS TO SHAME. 5YRS. TO SAVE $8,000 DOLLARS OVER THE ACCORD AND CAMERY AND GET A COMPARABLE CAR IS GREAT.

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  Ki-eh! - 2002 Kia Optima
  By drdavid - July 22 - 2:00 am

  On first blush, the Optima is a nice car. But after driving it for almost a year, the honeymoon is over. Window problems, cold starting hesitation, rough idling, only fair milage (even with the 5 speed), gives me pause to purchase another Kia. Reponse by the dealer (after 2 visits)about the rough idling, cold hesitation and fair milage was, "thats what the factory said it should be set at." I will say that the car is reliable and can pack in the people (2 adults/2 kids) and luggage. They say you get what you pay for. I was hoping for more.

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  Great Car - 2002 Kia Optima
  By Buckeyes1990 - July 22 - 2:00 am

  Before buying the Kia we looked at numerous vehicles including the Honda Accord. After test driving the Kia, we were sold! It drives great and the standard features are excellent! Did I mention the 100,000 mile warranty!? We are very pleased with the whole package that Kia offered.

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  Love it! - 2010 Kia Optima
  By AB - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Just purchased it and although Ive only had it a few days I love it so far and I really like the warranty they offer with KIA. Would buy another I really like it and the price was great! Rides good too!

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  TOPS !!!! - 2004 Kia Optima
  By bonrox - July 18 - 2:00 am

  I have owner a jaguar in the past. I recently purchased this Kia. It it perfect in every way. It compares much the same to the jag in hugging the road and overall comfort.I not only would not trade it for anyother make or model; but I do intend on buying another when ready.!!! Two of my very close friends have also purchase the same car after riding in mine! Great Car !!

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  Second car, Love it! - 2009 Kia Optima
  By carmansam22 - July 16 - 4:38 pm

  Great Car! Bought it Oct. 11, 2010. Havent had any problems with the car. Its the first 5 speed Ive owned and I love it. Its pretty quick and fast, I can downshift to third and pass cars with no problem. I once had a loaded car (at least 800ibs extra weight), driving up steep hills and still got 25MPG. I feel I got a lot for what I paid, just a little over 12,000.

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  Love this Car - 2011 Kia Optima
  By couyon - July 14 - 2:06 pm

  I purchased the EX with premium package. Cant believe everything this car offers for the money I paid. Just went over a 1000 miles and love everything so far. Read the car reviews complaing about the comfort of the seats but I have no complaints so far. True the leather seating is not as plush as some may prefer but it is not uncomfortable. I am 6ft 4in and weigh 275 and this car is very roomy. Car drives great and handling is crisp and precise. Wish the turbo would have come out a month sooner but this car has enough power for daily commuting.

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  My Kia Optima is just excellent! - 2004 Kia Optima
  By markinstpete - July 14 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy my Optima. The drive is excellent, smooth running engine. While most 4 cylinder cars I tested lost alot of power when I flipped on the air, you dont notice any lack of power with my optima. I love the interior features alot. And it was all at an excellent price. I would definately recomend the optima to anyone.

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  love my kia - 2004 Kia Optima
  By leo scullio - July 14 - 10:00 am

  I absolutely love my kia. It is fun to drive, looks great, and is laid out for easy use and convenience. I can not say enough about how much value I have received for what Ive paid for it.