2016 Kia Optima Review: Redesigned Midsize Sedan Still Suffering From Old Engine Problems

Nov 4, 2022

The 2016 Kia Optima only lasts around 150,000 miles with some serious engine and transmission issues. At $13,325 to $17,075, it’s cheaper than many other midsize sedans, but not worth it when one mechanical failure can total it out.

The Good

Interior materials are more luxurious than other midsize sedans, there’s advanced safety technology available and the stereo system is easy to use.

The Bad

The suspension is firmer than other midsize sedans, the most powerful engine isn’t as efficient as the competition and there’s limited headroom in the back seats.

Is the 2016 Kia Optima a Good Used Car?

Overall Rating 6/10 – 2016 is a bad year for the Optima since there are still some engine problems, giving it a low overall score. Owner reviews complain about sudden breakdowns, computer issues, as well as some stereo problems.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior quality is better than other sedans in the Optima, the seats are comfortable with soft-touch materials, cargo space is also good.
Reliability 6/10 – There are still some engine problems found on the 2016 Kia Optima. Buyers should avoid models from 2011–2016. Optima models from 2017–2020 are more reliable.
Performance 6/10 – Performance is worse than other midsize sedans from all three of the 4-cylinder engine choices available.
Safety 8/10 – The 2016 Optima is a safe sedan, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. Standard safety technology includes a rear view camera. Optional upgrades available include a 360 degree camera, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, as well as forward collision warning with automatic braking.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is great at up to 32 MPG giving 592 miles of range from the 18.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $54 cheaper than average, at $166 per month.
Value 6/10 – Expensive repair costs paired with fast depreciation make the 2016 Optima a bad value on the used market.

Positive Owner Reviews

karen R

This car has a big trunk.

I have not had any issues with this car. The only thing that I don't like is that my phone randomly has trouble connecting to the radio. Otherwise the car has performed problem free beautifully. One of the best features is the really spacious trunk

Paula M

I get great gas mileage on a trip and not bad gas mileage around town.

This car is comfortable to drive and ride in. I get good gas mileage. The body shape is right in style.

Jessie D

Good car. Good on gas always tell my family to buy one.

Good on gas never had problems this is my 2nd Kia Optima. Nice ride has lots of space. Would consider about upgrading. I always take it to the dealer for maintenance.

Eddie T

A great purchase for sedan lovers.

I have had issues with the tires, low profile tires are not great when it comes to road hazards. I have had 3 tires plugged over the past 6 months. I also have electrical problems currently with the headlights and brake lights. They keep blowing out and not working. I think this is probably a wiring issue. Other than that, the car rides extremely smooth, has amazing gas mileage (can get up to 35 mpg highway) and as low as 26 in town. The seating is extremely comfortable. Tons of configuration options on the steering dash, as well as on the radio. The ac/heater changes the climate extremely well and quickly during extreme temperatures each season.

Jennifer V

My Kia is a very reasonably priced car for all the features it has.

I have owned my 2016 Kia optima for 10 months after driving a 2000 Pontiac grand prix. My Kia has a super smooth ride and handles nicely. I especially love the rear camera, which really helps when backing out of tight parking spaces. I was also impressed by all of the electronic features this car has; especially after driving a 10 year old car. One of my tires was a bit low, because of driving over a nail and the system promptly alerted me to this fact and gave me a reading of the tire pressure in each tire. The check engine light did come on a month ago due to a recall. The Kia dealership got my car in promptly and offered a driver to take me to work and pick me up.

Yeana T

The best car due to high safety ratings and very affordable.

I purchased my vehicle due to high safety ratings which was my priority, and also because it was affordable, which was my second priority. Car runs smoothly and is very comfortable to travel short and long distances. It is very spacious and can fit my baby stroller and children's soccer equipment in my trunk. I processed the black interior due to having children, which has helped keeping it clean. Very happy with my Kia optima.

Diana N

Fun review of a good reliable car.

Nice reliable car. Fun to drive. Good on gas. Backup camera and sensors are very nice. Easy to park. Good family car. Spacious inside and the trunk is also very big. Can hold a lot. Can go two to three weeks on a tank of gas. Not a lot of these on the road, feel unique.

Donald M

Great value for the money. Has all the qualities of a much more expensive car.

Have had no problems at all with the car. Has good styling. Reliable and economical.

Negative Owner Reviews

kieran S

It is maroon, tan interior and it is a 2016 with about 60,000 miles on it.

I have had my car now for 3 years and I am disappointed with how it is held up. Both back windows quit working, the transmission slips all the time to the point where I am scared to even get on the interstate or drive too far, the tire pressure gauge is messed up and always makes me think I have a flat tire when I do not at all. My passenger side door handle broke off, both charger ports do not work, the paint is peeling off the car, and the interior leather is ripping.

Do Not BUY KIA Optima

BAD Eng

If you own a 2016, Kia Optima and you are having issues with it burning oil, check the condition of the spark plugs. The ENGINE IN THIS VECHICAL IS BAD! The problem will get worst at about 68,000 miles.

David Powell

Was find until an update on the computer was preformed

I like it's a pretty good on has, what I like the least it had a a few problems and the customer service was terrible at West Side Kia in Houston Tx

Malinda S

2016 Kia optima engine recall.

Found out recently about an engine recall and it has been very difficult to get Kia to fix the issue. I now have to top off my oil every 500-750 miles to prevent further engine damage if not, potentially end up stranded on the side of the road or visit a dealership every 500-750 miles, which is once a week for me due to the distance I drive for work, to do what they call an oil consumption monitor to hopefully receive the approval needed to repair the engine recall.

Dave Lattanzi

Excess Oil Consumption OK with KIA

A red oil can indicator light came on while I was driving, which surprised me since there were 6,119 miles since my last oil change. I went to the dealership where I bought it to have the oil changed and asked that they note how many quarts low it is. My Optima has 55,761 miles and has been serviced regularly by the dealership. The dealership didn't note on my service that it was 3.5 quarts low or that I requested an oil consumption test for excessive oil use. I was told that 1 quart per 1,500 miles is normal use. I said, hmm, really, that would mean that I would use 5 quarts of oil every 7,500 miles. I was also told that an oil consumption test indicates a problem if 1 quart of oil is consumed in 1,000 miles. Currently my Optima is consuming a quart every 1,700 miles, no leaks, at this rate I would have to put in 4.4 quarts of oil between oil changes; they say this is normal. Is this the message that Kia wants to send to customers?

Gary I

Takes a lot of gas for less than $50.

Kind of bumpy, insurance is way too high because it is "new", and the maintenance is pricey. However, the mileage is pretty decent it takes $20 for gas which lasts more than 150 miles. Comes with Bluetooth and USB port. The computer in the car, is not reliable 100%.

Brandie C

Many Issues

I bought my KIA brand new. For the first two years it ran perfect. 2years and 2 days later the motor blew. I have the Turbo. I fought to get it covered under warranty and it finally went through. My motor was on back order for several months. They finally replaced it mid February 2019. Since then I have had nothing but problems. My heat does not work and automatically defaults to air when you turn It on. The defrost does work though. My back passenger window stopped working. A month later the front passenger window stopped working and a week after that my driver window went out.I have not had use of my front windows for quite some time because they said the warranty doesn't cover it. The cost is $1500. The passenger side handle broke off. Not covered. The rear-end eats through brand new tires every couple of months. Leaving the tires wearing from the inside as if im driving down the road with them tilted outward. This has been a complaint for a year now. The latest answer I got was my actual wheels are bent. I do not drive the car like a lunatic and I have never had an accident. They want $550 each wheel. None of these issues are at the fault of myself. Yet there is always an explanation, reason or excuse why it isn't covered. This car was the worse investment I ever made and now I'm struggling to get out of it.

Jenny J

The Kia optima is trash, I hate this car.

It's not that roomy on the inside, it does not pick up speed, the amount of gas that goes into the car is horrible I might as well have a truck, the gas goes out as fast as it's put in, check engine light comes on randomly but nothings wrong. If I can go back in time I wouldn't have bought this car.

What Do Critics Say About the Kia Optima?

Consumer Reports says the Kia Optima offers some good new features, but has low owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds rates the Optima at 4.2/5, praising the quiet cabin, but doesn’t like the numb steering feel.
Kelley Blue Book users give the Optima a 4.3/5, enjoying the roomy interior, although owners don’t like the lower reliability ratings.

What Common Problems Does the 2016 Kia Optima Have?

Common problems found on the 2016 Kia Optima include engine failures, worn-out window regulators, as well as hesitation while shifting between gears. Overall, these problems are more severe than other midsize sedans, leading to higher repair bills as well if they fail outside the 10 year/100,000 mile warranty.

Engine failures are still an issue reported on the 2016 Kia Optima at around 90,000 miles, although they’re not as widespread as in earlier years. There are problems with the internal engine bearings which lead to total engine failures. Replacing the engine costs around $7,500, depending on local labor rates if it’s out of warranty.

Worn-out window regulators are another problem mentioned by owners at nearly 75,000 miles. The regulator has components which snap with a lot of use, leading to the power windows not going up or down. Replacing the regulator fixes the problem, costing around $500 per window.

Hesitation while shifting between gears, also shows up on some 2016 Optima models at roughly 70,000 miles. Usually the problem is caused by a transmission software issue which can be fixed for around $100. Internal transmission problems can cost over $1,000 to fix.

There are 4 recalls on the 2016 Kia Optima, some of which are worse than other midsize cars. The most serious recall covers the high pressure fuel pipe, which can leak, causing a fire. Kia will replace the fuel pipe on the affected models. Another serious recall is for the front axle shaft, which can cause a rollover. The final two recalls cover air bags which are common on all cars.

How Long Will the 2016 Kia Optima Last?

A well maintained 2016 Kia Optima should last around 150,000 miles, which is only half as long as the top-rated Toyota Camry. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other midsize cars, according to data from Repair Pal, at $355 per year. Maintenance costs are average, however, if there are any expensive problems it can cost a lot more.

Since many 2016 Kia Optima models for sale have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace the brake booster for $700, transmission shift cable costing $630, as well as the power steering pump, which costs $800.

Jordan F

It is very reliable. However with my turbo engine, there is rattling on the dashboard above the glove compartment. My old Hyundai with the same dct engine exhibited the same sound. No one has been able to identify or fix it.

Linda F

Yes, very reliable. Never had one problem. I never need anything at inspection time. This is a great car and I would highly recommend it.

Ruben E

The Kia optima lx is very reliable. In the entire time that I have had this car, it did not have any serious issues.

Spencer C

I haven't had any problems with my Kia, the only thing is just a couple of recalls. The recalls were very minimum.

Latoya A

Yes very reliable no issues as of yet for me this vehicle is very reliable spacious quiet comfortable no maintenance issues that I have had to deal with.

Dorian K

Yes the 2016 Kia optima lx is reliable. I have not had any problems in the two and a half years that I have had it.

Kenzie H

I have had a few problems including my trunk latch that recently broke and had to buy a part and replace it.

Howard B

I have not experienced any issues and I have been driving it for the past 3 years. The engine and drivetrain are surprisingly problem free.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is great in the 2016 Kia Optima compared to other midsize cars with a standard 5-inch touchscreen, or an optional larger 8-inch screen. Safety technology is good with a standard rear view camera. Optional upgrades include a 360 degree camera, lane departure warning, frontal collision warning, as well as automatic braking.

Is the 2016 Kia Optima a Good Value?

No, the 2016 Kia Optima is not a good value since there are still some engine problems reported. Blue book prices range from $13,325 to $17,075, making it cheaper than a Honda Accord or Subaru Legacy. When new, the price range was $22,140 to $36,040. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 14% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Kia Optima?

There are four models of the Kia Optima offered in 2016 from the base LX all the way up to the luxurious SXL.

LX is the entry-level model with:

16-Inch Alloy Wheels
Cloth Seating
Power Windows & Locks
Cruise Control
Rear view Camera
5-Inch Touchscreen
Bluetooth Connectivity
6-Speaker Stereo System

EX is a step up, adding:

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Leather Seating
LED Running Lights
8-Inch Touchscreen Stereo System
Blind Spot Monitoring
Optional 10-Speaker Harmon Kardon Stereo

SX is next in the lineup with:

18-Inch Alloy Wheels
Sport Tuned Suspension
Adaptive Xenon Headlights
Rear Spoiler

SXL is the flagship model which has:

Premium Leather Seating
Chrome Exterior Trim
360 Degree Parking Camera
Automatic Braking System
Forward Collision Warning

185 HP 28 MPG

View Details

LX Turbo

178 HP 32 MPG

View Details

185 HP 28 MPG

View Details

SX Turbo

245 HP 25 MPG

View Details

SXL Turbo

245 HP 25 MPG

View Details

What Engines Come In the Kia Optima?

The standard engine in the Kia Optima is an average 2.4L 4-cylinder which makes 185 horsepower while getting up to 28 MPG.
An optional upgrade is the efficient 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder which generates 178 horsepower at up to 32 MPG.
The most powerful engine is the stronger 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder which offers 245 horsepower and gets up to 25 MPG. Performance is okay, taking 6.7 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Kia Optima Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Kia Optima?

The 2016 Kia Optima is a very comfortable midsize sedan with seating for up to five people. Seats are extremely nice for the price, offering a more luxurious feel than a lot of other midsize sedans in the same price range.

Passenger room is very good in the front seats, while the back seats may feel cramped for taller passengers due to the sloping roof line which limits headroom.

How Much Storage Space Does the Kia Optima Have?

Cargo space is similar to other midsize sedans, offering enough space in the trunk for 3-4 full size suitcases.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The fourth generation of the Kia Optima was introduced in 2016 and was replaced by the fifth generation in 2021.

2014: Small exterior styling changes, improved front seats, blind spot monitoring added.

2015: Updated stereo system, SX Limited model renamed to SXL.

2016: Fully redesigned for the fourth generation with new engines, interior, and exterior styling.

2017: LED headlights added to the SX model.

2018: Apple CarPlay & Android Auto are now standard, high-performance S model added.

2019: Minor exterior styling changes, new headlights, standard driver assistance software.

2020: Standard forward collision mitigation, Premium package discontinued.

How Does the Kia Optima Compare to the Competition?

The Kia Optima ranked well when it was new, yet problems have developed as they’ve aged, which makes them a bad choice on the used market. Buying an Optima outside the 10 year/100,000 mile warranty is a bad idea since repair costs add up quickly.

The Hyundai Sonata is another midsize sedan which is available in the same price range. Both the Kia Optima and Hyundai Sonata are built on the same platform sharing the same engines, while the interior is more luxurious on the Hyundai Sonata. We recommend avoiding both vehicles for 2016 since they both have the same mechanical problems.

The Honda Accord is another competitor which costs around $3,000 more. Performance is better in the Honda Accord with the more powerful engines, while the Kia Optima has a more upscale interior for the money. We recommend the Honda Accord since it will last longer, with fewer mechanical problems.

Ranks #5 Midsize Cars by Owners

2016 Honda Accord

4.6

2016 Subaru Legacy

4.58

2016 Kia Optima

4.5

Do Owners Recommend the Kia Optima?

Jordan F

Yes. It is a great car. Drives smooth, incredibly fuel efficient, comfortable and stylish. Would consider purchasing after my lease expires.

Linda F

Yes, we love it. Never one problem, rides great and looks great. When we are ready to buy another car, we will definitely buy a Kia. Live the way it performs.

Ruben E

Yes, the Kia optima is a great vehicle. It is a great car to buy at a reasonable price. It is a better car than most other options.

Spencer C

Yes very good, one of the best I have owned. Very smooth ride, tones of power, with amazing features.

Latoya A

Yes this vehicle is very good drives smooth very good on gas compared to other cars of same style cheaper on gas very quiet smooth car to drive.

Dorian K

Yes the 2016 Kia optima lx is a good vehicle to drive. It is comfortable, great on gas, and stylish. It has plenty of room for family and friends.

Kenzie H

Yes my 2016 Kia optima lx is a good and reliable vehicle. I love all the features it offers including the back up camera.

Howard B

Yes it is a very dependable and comfortable vehicle. It has many safety features that make driving enjoyable and safe.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Heather W on June 25, 2021

A very nice car would buy again.

I have no problems with this car other than it makes a weird sound when you press the gas. I love that to open the gas pump you have to press a button on the inside. Very comfortable car. Very easy to drive. A good car for long drives. I wish it had seat warmers.

Christian K on June 21, 2021

Reliability and comfort in my Kia.

I have had nothing but great experiences with my car. The trunk space is plentiful and the cab space fits me and all of my taller friends comfortably. This vehicles is very reliable to get from place to place on long distance trips and is good on gas mileage. I love how little I have to fill up my car with gas and how when I am running low I can switch to eco-mode. I also enjoy that the car has a sport function for when I am in town and need to start and stop often.

Bob S on June 18, 2021

Kia optima a wonderful vehicle.

I do not have any problems with the vehicle. It is very comfortable. The seats are easily adjustable in every direction. The radio is hands free Bluetooth and can be controlled with buttons on the steering wheel. You can switch back and forth from an eco friendly mode, to a sports mode, and to just driving normally. I personally stay in the eco friendly mode, but when I need to gain speed a little faster I switch to the sports mode.

Kate H on June 15, 2021

Engine stalling issue for the Kia optima.

Well my Kia dies when you come to a stop after driving for several hours on a long trip. It is very frustrating. It also shudders when I pull up to a stoplight or stop sign which makes me think that it is about to die. Kia will not recall the cars for the problem either.

Sarah C on June 12, 2021

Review of 2016 Kia optima.

I have had this vehicle for a little over a year now and have had no major problems with it so far. It is fuel efficient and definitely stylish. I love the Bluetooth feature as it allows me to play music right off of my phone. Definitely would recommend it to others.

Lauren S on June 3, 2021

What I love about my Kia optima.

No problems and I have had for 4 years! Very spacious in the front and back. Large trunk space also. Gets great gas mileage. Engine is great- goes very fast in a short amount of time. Keyless remote entry. I love when I walk by the car and the mirrors swing out.

GiaMarie A on June 3, 2021

My family's safety and comfort.

My Kia optima is one of the most reliable comfortable vehicles I have ever owned. It handles the road with such ease and its classy sheene look makes it look just as sharp and its reliability. My family's safety is what drew me to the Kia optima in the first place and this vehicle has not disappointed me once.

alana M on May 28, 2021

Nice white shiny affordable and many awesome features.

I love my Kia optima. It gets 30 miles to the gallon. It rides smooth, it is white, it is very stylish, leather seats, sunroof, sun shades in back seats, seat warmers, Bluetooth radio, touchscreen radio, spacious, affordable, always dependable, no problems just needs regular maintenance.

Misty R on May 28, 2021

Nice economically friendly and fun to drive family car.

The seats are very comfortable, it has an awesome radio system, it runs like a dream, I really like that I can swap between sports and economy mode as well as between manual and automatic. The sports mode really kicks it up a notch even more if you are in manual mode. I know from experience that Kia honors their warranties without any hassle.

Jaime T on May 27, 2021

It feels futuristic without spending loads of money on something like a tesla.

The Kia optima lx is honestly a great car. There is so many features. The car is absolutely great, seats feel very comfortable and I could honestly sleep on them. It is not anything crazy but it is just better than most car seats. There's plenty of ways to charge your phone or electronic devices, which I think is great because my phone is always on me and needing to be charged. The car also has a nice display to check the radio station and has a camera on the back of the car to help you park.

Destiny H on May 26, 2021

Blue, tan interior, black seatbelts, backup cam, automatic.

Right now the car is down because of a recall. The engine has gone out. However, Kia is replacing that for free. Other than that, overall it is a very good car. A nice family or mom car. Smooth driving, nice round in radio, seat belt adjustments, etc. I have traveled many places in the car and I have only had it less than one year. I’d recommend it if you are willing to take the chance on a recall.

Bella S on May 22, 2021

Kia optimas are really great cars! 100% would recommend!

I have had my car for 4 years now and I haven't had any problems with it. The car drives really smooth and a full tank of gas lasts me a really long time. This car is really good for me especially since I know very little about cars. It is the best car I could've asked for!

Sarah H on May 19, 2021

Great family car. Safe, spacious, and reliable without guzzling gas.

Car is great in gas mileage and space even for sedan. There is plenty of legroom in the back for taller passengers and the overall drive is comfortable. This vehicle is my daily driver and our family road trip vehicle. It fairs very well on the highway and is a comfortable ride for our entire family.

Adrian R on April 18, 2021

2016 Kia optima lx review.

The car handles great; I have had it for 4 years now with no severe issues. Backup camera and satellite radio came standard, but I do wish a remote start feature was also standard for those cold winter days. I have kept up with the car maintenance so I have not run into engine/transmission issues. Overall I'd give the car an 8/10.

Andrea O on April 18, 2021

It does have to be cleaned often as it is white and any dirt really stands out.

It sometimes shakes when I go too fast on the highway but overall I love this car. The backup mirror is also very clear and helpful. It is obviously not meant for any off roading and that is something I wish to do soon so if I replace this car, it would be to get a sturdier car meant for off road trips.

Joseph H on April 9, 2021

My opinion on Kia optima.

There are no problems whatsoever. It drives great and it good for u-turns. It's very reliable and comfortable. It's very sleek and has great trunk space. I use this car weekly instead of my Honda civic which is not as good as my Kia optima. I recommend the Kia optima.

Stephanie P on April 8, 2021

Comfortable for us tall folks.

My Kia optima is very spacious yet easy to maneuver into parking spaces. The back seats laying down to offer extra trunk space has come in handy multiple times. My former car- a Toyota- did not handle well in the rain but my Kia does. I get good gas mileage and driving is comfortable as a tall person.

Tori C on April 7, 2021

The best part of the Kia optima is the great gas mileage!

The 2016 Kia optima is a fantastic car. It performs great and gets great gas mileage. I have gotten up to 38 miles per gallon! I haven't had any problems with this car but I haven't had it that long. It features heated seats, backup cameras, and Bluetooth to connect your phone to.

Jake V on April 4, 2021

The phantom' the car I was looking for.

This vehicle is comfortable, spacious, and smooth. Very reliable. Good on gas. I have no complaints thus far. It has a great graphite color to it. I love the use of the aux/ USB inputs. I had a few tire issues, but that is due to come. It was a used vehicle, but I got a really great deal from it.

Trina D on April 4, 2021

Family friendly Kia optima review

I love my car. It is reliable and trustworthy for long-distance trips and short trips around town. It's a great family full-sized car and fits our car seat well. I haven't had a need to change out any parts yet, but they are in stock if needed which is a huge plus!

Tawnee G on April 3, 2021

Very safe vehicle, good gas mileage.

I have been rear ended twice and both times, I was never hurt and the vehicle had minimal damage. It has 115,000 miles and I have had no major mechanics. Issues other than a small issue with a turbo sensor. Gets very good gas mileage, usually about 36 miles to the gallon.

Chris H on April 3, 2021

2016 Kia optima runs good I use it as a work car.

2nd owner of the car it is nice runs good I drive over 100 miles a day for work. The interior is nice and comfortable I have enough room for both my kids car seats. Maintenance is a little pricey from Kia but it is okay. For some reason the paint on my front bumper is coming off it needs to be repainted.

Kris W on April 2, 2021

The value for the price and options.

The performance. The quality. It is reliable it looks like a high end car. I like the leather and interior features.

Cj V on April 2, 2021

Kia optima is great and efficient.

It shakes sometimes when I drive it. But it has great gas mileage. The ac is either too cold or too hot. The Bluetooth features could use some work.

Howard A on April 1, 2021

My Kia optima fe owner satisfaction review.

My Kia optima fe is very comfortable with driver assist technology and features that allow custom fuel efficiency. Also memory seats and a very large trunk, there are no blind visual driving spots and the lane assist technology helps notify the driver when a approaching vehicle is near. Bluetooth allows the occupants to make hands free calls and 3 phones with contact information can be stored.

Eddie T on March 31, 2021

A great purchase for sedan lovers.

Claire S on March 31, 2021

Best car I have bought so far.

Drives super smooth. Never had any repairs needed on it. Great gas mileage. The leather seats are clean and sleek. The option to have heated seats as well as cooled seats is incredible. The back seat offers plenty of legroom for passengers. The camera features for backing up and driving are super helpful.

Shawn J on March 31, 2021

Back up camera and eco drive safe on gas.

My vehicle is very reliable. . I really enjoy having this car. . . Gets me from point A to point B without any problems. . I would recommend this car to any looking for a car. . I love eco drive and backup camera feature on the car. . This car drives very well on gas especially on the highway or long traveling.

Matt M on March 31, 2021

Epitome of the modern day car

In my opinion, my Kia optima ex is a great car with very few flaws. The car is very comfortable and spacious, giving extra room for most of my passengers. The car comes with a variety of charging ports; including 2 cigarette charging ports and 2 USB charging ports in the front and back seats.

Jocelyn S on March 31, 2021

Love it! Couldn't have made a better choice!

The optima provides a gentle, composed ride over most roads. My favorite thing about the optima is it looks great really feels like a premium car. The materials are high quality. I am truly happy with my purchase and I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a great midsize sedan for a good value.

Kitty K on March 29, 2021

Runs smooth. Little issues, stylish, and comfortable;

This may be the most reliable vehicle I have ever used. We've only had a short list of issues with the vehicle since it was purchased back in 2016! I have never driven it in extreme weather conditions, so I cannot say anything about that, but I do recommend this if you want a great car for a great price.

Opal S on March 29, 2021

Back up camera helps with cross traffic and to see if there is anything there.

Its is real reliable. Have not had any problems with it. Would purchase another one just like it. Has really good safety features. I love the backup camera it is real helpful to make sure you don't hit anything or anyone. Let's you know when cross traffic is coming.

Jennifer E on March 28, 2021

Dependable, reliable vehicle!

I drive a 2016 Kia optima. It drives smoothly and handles really well. It is a very reliable car, my daughter has health issues and reliability was an important factor to me. It is a comfortable car to sit in for a length of time. Have had no major or minor issues really so far.

Destiny G on March 27, 2021

This car is my new best friend.

No problems! I love my car it has everything I need and so much more! It's beyond reliable and gets amazing gas mileage. I'm so glad that when I went to buy a car this is the one that I chose. It's beautiful to look at inside and out. I feel like a million bucks when I'm driving it. The sunroof is by far my favorite thing about it to be able to open it up and get that extra air flow is amazing. The leather seat are so stylish and easy to clean up if I ever spill anything. The maintainability is so easy and affordable.

Silvia C on March 21, 2021

Real Value for the money, and is also good on gas mileage.

I really like the Optima, the ride is smooth and the car is dependable, I always take the car in at the dealers for the tune-ups and oil changes. My car is also very pretty.

Do Not BUY KIA Optima on March 15, 2021

BAD Eng

Leonard T on March 15, 2021

It a great CAR FOR ANY ONE THAT WANT ONE FOR GREAT PRICE.

I love the body style.And the color of it And the Kia get good gas mileage. I don't dislike anything about the Kia.

Patty T on March 12, 2021

Overall great car! Very reliable.

No issues whatsoever since I bought it in 2017, absolutely love it, especially the gas mileage it gets. Plenty of leg room and storage. Large, spacious trunk. Has a lot of get up and go. Very comfortable vehicle to take on long trips. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone.

Brian R on March 12, 2021

2016 Kia optima is a noteworthy and beautiful car to own.

My vehicle is one of the most reliable affordable and is one of the best in gas mileage. I have never had any issues with my vehicle. The handle of is superior. The vehicle is a perfect vehicle for a family. Inside is roomy and comfortable for 4 adults to comfortably ride. The sound quality for music is amazing.

Ber M on March 12, 2021

The gas mileage is exceptional.

It is extremely reliable. When driving, it drives very smooth and feels safe for a small sedan. It also is very spacious for a sedan, the seats are very comfortable. The vehicle is unbelievably great on gas. I get approximately 500 miles per tank while driving the city and can get up to 565 miles per tank driving on highways. Not to mention, it looks great from the outside!

Rebecca G on March 12, 2021

Kia is a sporty and reliable brand.

I love the sporty look of my Kia and how it handles on the road. The seat height is just right for me. I love the high tech features like the navigation screen and the back up camera. The paint job is a shiny back with great chrome detailing. The interior seats are comfortable and easy to adjust.

Erin Y on March 11, 2021

Kia optima: a reliable, sage, low-maintenance vehicle.

It is a great car with a lot of space for both passengers and cargo. It is easy to maneuver in the city and suburbs. I feel that it is safe and I have never had a reliability issue. I wish that the latch system for car seats was easier to use (the hooks are the most difficult of any car I have used).

George T on March 10, 2021

That it is a very good car for the price.

It is good on gas mileage. It is very comfortable. The trunk is of adequate size. And, it has a number of the latest features.

DJ M on March 6, 2021

Kia optima- lovely mid size sedan.

Regular mid size sedan. I have no issues or concerns with the vehicle. I have driven this brand of car for the last 5+ years. Does the job... Kia has up the car qualities year over year. Please with the new designs of the Kia k5 and can't wait to test drive.

Madeline A on March 5, 2021

Options to maximize gas in different terrains.

My car is reliable. Good mileage on long distance trips. Low maintenance. Good on gas. Options for driving mode to save gas. The trunk is large. It can be extended by pull down the back seats. It defrosts quickly on all window. The proximity detector works very well.

Jimmy G on March 4, 2021

Great experience and the best car to buy.

Having my vehicle has been such a great experience. I cannot complain about it at all. Every drive that I have been on I have not had any issues with. It is definitely the greatest first car. You'll love it the day you decide to purchase one. I loved it and so will you.

Melanie F on March 4, 2021

Just bought used and love it!

I just bought this car and I love it! The drive is very smooth and quiet. I love that it has a USB port so that I can charge my phone while driving. The car comes with the option of Sirius radio and sound quality makes this purchase worth it. The only flaw in my mind is the position of the gas pedal. It is more vertically angled than my previous car, and since I have small feet sometime I just have to reposition my foot in order to accelerate quickly.

Ashley C on March 4, 2021

Kia optima, spacious and modern.

The Kia optima has been the best car I have owned yet. I really like the light interior and modern look of the dash. The back seat is very large and has its own cup holders, necessity for young children it feels like, so perfect. The trunk is the most spacious I have seen on a 4 door sedan. I have had a few problems, like the gas door magnet broke and wouldn't hold it closed anymore. And a bigger problem with the motor, requiring a whole new motor to be put in. It was however covered in the warranty and replaced free of charge and I have not had a problem since, about 2 years.

Diane C on March 3, 2021

Love my Kia optima. Great mileage on my gas. Good leg room. Good backup camera.

I have no complaints about my Kia. It gets good mileage, had good leg room. It has a large trunk. I really appreciate the backup camera. The only thing I would change would to raise the seats up in the front. I have knee problems and it is tough to have to go down to get in the seat. If I could just slide in it would be easier.

April F on March 3, 2021

Looks more expensive than it is. And it has air-conditioned seats!

It's a great looking car. I like all the features it has, and it didn't cost a lot.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.