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Kia Optima

EPA MPG: NA
Average Retail Price
$2,900

RECALL ALERT:
There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

First Take
The midsized Optima is essentially a Hyundai Sonata with less-adventurous styling and a generous helping of exterior chrome. Like the Sonata, it is available in two trim levels and with a choice of two engines: a 2.4-liter, 149-hp Four or a 2.7-liter, 181-hp V6. V6 models are only available with an automatic transmission. Four-cylinder models come reasonably well equipped, though antilock brakes aren't offered. As in the Sonata, the interior is fairly spacious and quiet, and the V6 powertrain reasonably refined.

2002 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

This Car
NA
vs. Similar Cars

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Acceptable
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Acceptable
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Kia vs. Other New Car Brands

Kia vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Acceptable
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

2002 Midsized cars Ratings

$2,900
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$2,850
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$2,900 - $2,950
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$2,900 - $3,800
economy-icon
EPA MPG 26 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$2,900
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
Features & Specs
Body Style
    sedan
Seating
2 front, 3 rear
Drive Wheels
Front
Engines Available
  • 2.4-liter 4 (138 hp)
  • 2.7-liter V6 (170 hp)
Transmissions Available
  • 5-speed manual
  • 4-speed automatic
Warranty
Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties
Model History
2016-
Current Generation

Riding on an all-new chassis shared with the Hyundai Sonata, the redesigned 2016 Optima midsized sedan packs a lot of substance and value. It drives nicely, with a firm yet absorbent ride and responsive, secure handling. The mainstream 2.4-liter four-cylinder is pleasant, while the uplevel 2.0-liter turbo four packs more punch. New to the line is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The EX trim features comfortable leather seats, automatic climate control, a roomy rear seat, and heating for the seats and steering wheel. We got 28 mpg with the 2.4-liter. Low-positioned dash vents are our only gripe. The latest version of Kia's UVO touch-screen infotainment system works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A hybrid is also available. The 2019 freshening brings standard advanced safety features, including forward collision and rear cross- traffic warning, lane keeping assistance, and blind spot warning. The final production run of the Optima fizzled out after 2020.

2011-2015
2011 Redesign Year
A major redesign for 2011 made the Optima much better, with nimble handling, but a stiff ride. The up-level engine, a lively turbocharged four-cylinder, returned a respectable 24 mpg, but exhibited less refinement than a V6. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder performs well. An unrefined hybrid is offered too. The coupe-like styling detracts from rear visibility and cabin access. We'd try to find an Optima LX with the Convenience Plus package in order to get the power driver's seat and rear camera. Our other favorite combination is the Optima EX with the Premium and Technology (navigation and blind spot monitoring) packages.
2006-2010
2006 Redesign Year
The 2006 mid-model year redesign maintained the comfort of the quiet cabin and the composed ride, while improving handling. ABS and ESC were common with the EX, but hard to find in the LX. Controls are easy to use, the interior is nicely detailed and the rear seat is among the most comfortable in its class. Optional, power-adjustable pedals help all drivers find a comfortable position. Outward visibility is very good, but the high rear deck lid limits the view when backing up. Overall, it's a nice sedan at a low price, with engines delivering competitive fuel economy and performance.
2001-2005
2001 Redesign Year
The midsized Optima delivers a lot of content at a reasonable price. Comfort, quiet and refinement are numbered solidly among its attributes. The Kia also has very good fit and finish. The engine, while smooth, isn't very fuel efficient, despite its small displacement. Agility is lacking too. Limited headroom, inhibited access and a somewhat compromised driving position are issues as well. With all of that said however, its Poor score in the IIHS side-crash test is our most significant concern about this model.