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 Value - 2006 Kia Optima
  By rich - November 19 - 5:46 pm

  Told my wife that this car was the best value for the money when she bought it. The only problem is that now it has very little trade in value. Have been trying to find a reason to dislike this car, but cant. Fit and finish are good. Everything is good. Nothing poor and nothing outstanding

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  Efficient, Zippy with a few Quirks - 2003 Kia Optima
  By Cathy - November 6 - 7:10 pm

  Overall a great car. Fuel efficient, outstanding pickup, comfortable, love the Speedtronic shift to manual on steep roads, nice sound system. Downside: paint around exterior mirrors vanished after 3 years, had to get them repainted. There are also a few electrical quirks. Radio sometimes goes on/off over bumps, The radio antenna wouldnt retract when shutting off car, instead it would go up/down in a confused fashion until I started the car and turned off radio first. Mysteriously resolved itself. Had problem with passenger interior door lock misaligning and trapping passenger inside-got it fixed 3 times, but was warranteed No mechanical problems in 4 yrs, just new battery & tires.

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  Positive Choice - 2004 Kia Optima
  By Rthor - November 4 - 2:00 am

  The Kia Optima in a price comparison with other makes and models won hands down both in quality and features. The car is well equipped with virtually all the accessories one would want. From a moon roof to ABS brakes, leather interior and a 24V-V6 engine. The engine is quiet and very responsive. Interior noise is low and the car gives a good solid feel during city or highway driving. Overall the form, fit and function of the car is outstanding, particularly at this price.

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  Very good car - 2004 Kia Optima
  By MWay1146 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I have owned a Cadillac, a Lincoln Town Car, and several Chevy, Oldsmobile, and Chrysler vehicles. My 2003 Optima EX is as good as any of them. It has a nice ride, handles very well, and is quieter than my Town Car or Coupe de Ville were. On a recent 1000 mile trip, I got 33 MPG and the first 10000 miles have been totally trouble-free. I highly recommend this car.

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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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  S.Jones - 2004 Kia Optima
  By S. Jones - October 29 - 2:00 am

  I have driven to Missouri, New Orleans, Fredricksburg, back and forth to Virginia Beach, And Ive been to Winchester and the car has driven smoothly and safely .

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  Nice car for the Money - 2001 Kia Optima
  By markus - October 28 - 10:00 am

  We were skeptical about buying a Korean made car, but we have been pleasantly surprised. The car seems well built and solid. It is very comfortable and fun to drive. It has all the features of the more expensive Toyotas and Hondas. You cant beat the warranty and the road side assistance. It takes the risk out of buying a Korean car. I think the Optimas are going to hold up very well and put KIA on the map. You know KIA has to build good cars if they are going to be competitive in the U.S. We are very happy with our Optima.

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  best value - 2011 Kia Optima
  By rhamblen - October 22 - 12:16 am

  Looks like a car costing thousands more. fit, feel and ride are outstanding. performance is exceptional. Optima has exceeded what I had even hoped for. KIA has a winner..

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  Delighted thru necessity! - 2004 Kia Optima
  By EdinWestminster - October 12 - 2:00 am

  After having driven 173,000 miles on my Saturn Sl1, the engine finally gave up and I had to do something quick. Not likeing the looks of the ION and reading of its average reputation, I looked to Kia for comfort, reliability, and value. I moved up to a full tilt loaded EXV6 in Pearl White. The car has vastly exceeded my expectations for comfort, reliablity, build quality, and peace of mind. Many of my friends thought it was a small Lexus. My Saturn was the most dependable car I have ever owned (never had one problem), but having put almost 7000 miles on the Kia in 3 months, I am looking forward to many years of dependable, value packed comfort. Also, Leather and 200watt stereo helps too!

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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.