2011 Kia Optima Review: A Roomy Midsize Sedan With Mechanical Problems

Alex Showalter
Oct 25, 2021

The 2011 Kia Optima can be found used from $6,856 to $12,613. For a midsize sedan it’s relatively safe, but poorly made. Serious problems are very common with the Optima and can be expensive to fix. We do not recommend it to buyers looking for a used car.

VehicleHistory Image
likeFilled The Good
An upscale interior, fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain, and above-average safety test results are winning points for the 2011 Optima.
dislikeFilled The Bad
Engine failures coupled with a stiff suspension and no standard rear-view camera detract from the car.
checkCircleAlternativeBold The Bottom Line
The Kia Optima is built to be a budget-friendly and attempts to offer a lot for the money. Mechanical problems make it a car shoppers should avoid.

2011 Kia Optima: Quick Overview

  • The Kia Optima was fully redesigned for the 2011 model year with new powertrains, new interiors and exterior design. It scores below average in overall reliability.
  • Three engines are available in the Optima, including a hybrid.
  • Optima ranks second in its class for fuel economy with a combined fuel rating of up to 36 miles per gallon.
  • A five-star government crash test rating and a Top Safety Pick of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) make it a safe car. 
  • The 2011 Kia Optima is not a good car since you can’t count on them to last. There are better midsize sedans on the market for the money that are more comfortable and break down less often.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Tyler U
The car has been extremely reliable besides the fluke engine replacement.
Wonderful performance and power, new engine replacement at 80k miles for overconsumption of oil, but no other problems besides wear and tear.
accountCircle Kendall E
Awesome car, very spacious and sporty looking too!
Has all the bells and whistles, and looks like a sporty car. I live the heard and cooling seats, it is nice to have. The inside is pretty spacious and the back seats are perfect for someone with kids or a dog. There was an oil leaking problem that has gone on for a while but it is minimal.
accountCircle Christina M
The Kia Optima is a very beautiful car we get a lot of compliments.
Our Kia is great we bought it certified used and the warranty is great. Smooth riding luxury and loaded car. I wish the cars came with a spare tire but do not. The company did give us a flat fix kit with a one time use. The heated and ac seats I think are the best my first experience and I love it.
accountCircle Lucia T
Great car for daily usage.
The Kia optima is a new car that just bought. It was affordable to purchase and gets great mileage. The drive is smooth and it handles great. Very attractive as well. It has many convenience and safety features. The car itself is very comfortable and has decent amount of space i'd highly recommend this vehicle to anyone.
accountCircle EC C
Wonderful but I have a few requests.
I am truly satisfied with my car. It is very sleek and economically priced. I love the panoramic sunroof but the only thing I would have preferred is if some options were standard like the auto folding side view mirrors, the lighted door frame (when you enter the car), and that it wasn't so cumbersome and costly to update the maps.
accountCircle Andrea C
Durable and comfortable car.
I haven't had any issues with this car. It originally was bought for my husband who had a sales route, so there are a lot of miles on it (100k+) but with regular oil changes no problems. This might be outdated now but it was my first car with Bluetooth, and radio/phone keys on the steering wheel which I really liked.
accountCircle MARK
FAST ENOUGH
RUNS GREAT EVERYONE THAT SEES IT LIKES IT
accountCircle Pamela H
The style, the color, the sound the performance.
I love the handle the style the performance I just love my car it is my baby, handles great, runs excellent not had any problems with my car at all. The best features is the all glass roof and sunroof and I love the slap pedals on the steering wheel.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Tea P
Do not buy Kia, not a reliable vehicle for anyone.
So many recalls. Not a reliable vehicle. Will never buy Kia again. New engine is already recalled. New wiring harness installed and electrical still does not work right. Rear lights only work if headlights are on and the aux cord USB port have never worked.
accountCircle Katherine M
My car is a 2011 Kia optima. It is fully loaded.
This car has been nothing but trouble. I have had to have the engine replaced. The engine still knocks. I bought this car because it had nice features but it began having problems almost from the beginning. I would never recommend that anyone buy a Kia.
accountCircle Bradley M
Not a great car and wouldn't buy another one.
The steering in the car is horrible. Three different car places can't figure out the issue. It pulls one way really hard and you barely pull the other the direction to help correct it and it pulls the other way. There's no driving straight. The streets aren't very comfortable and the claimed gas mileage is off.
accountCircle Diamond B
And the passenger seat is adjustable best car so far that I have driven from Kia.
Great car moves fast great feel quality of the car is great good on gas mileage takes me where I need to go with 40 miles to the gallon you can't beat that very reliable vehicle. I am happy with this sleek smooth riding vehicle I am happy with this purchase.
accountCircle Liz B
None. Vehicle is overpriced for all the defects it comes with
Too many mechanical problems. Oil pump breaks. Fuel injector bursts. Axles crack. I've had to pay a lot to get it fixed. Paint scratches easily. Paint becomes opaque too quickly have to constantly be taking it to buff and wax. I have spent too much money fixing the problems
accountCircle Spencer G
A burgundy Kia optima 2011.
My vehicle is comfortable but has rough or stubborn brakes and has high mileage. The outside is a bit rough in the paint and has a dent in the hood. The interior is leather but is slowly ripping. My biggest concern are the brakes though. If that was fixed then maybe it'd be okay but in general I need a new car.
accountCircle Ali G
It has great gas mileage. It has always been reliable.
I love the gas mileage. Although it is 7 years old, the model still looks really nice and up to date. I have had no issues with it. What I dislike are the color of the cloth seats. They are light gray and show everything from water stains to Jean dye.
accountCircle Brandon J
My vehicle is a gloss pearl white. I love the color and shine. Overall a sleek.
I have had better. Suspension is horrible. I like the look, however. I would not purchase this car again if given a choice. Fuel economy is great and stereo system are two of the better things I enjoy about this vehicle. All in all I would give this a 2 or 3 out of 5.

What Problems Does the 2011 Kia Optima have?

2011 is one of the worst years for the Kia Optima. It has serious engine problems which lead to failures around 100,000 miles. Less expensive problems include steering noises and headlight bulbs burning out quickly.

There are four recalls affecting the 2011 Optima. Including the stop lamp switch, bearing wear in the engine, airbags, and high-pressure fuel pipe leaks. Most serious is engine bearing wear, which causes the high number of failures.

What are the Prices, Models & Specs?

The 2011 Kia Optima’s three trims featured major redesign and hybrid edition. The 2011 Kia Optima can be found used for $6,856 to $12,613 depending on the model and mileage. When new it had a price range of $19,200 to $26,200. Its depreciation rate is faster than average, losing 49% of its value in the first five years.

  • The base LX model has a stereo system with six-speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, 16-inch steel wheels, and keyless entry.
  • A step up to the EX model adds a push-button start system, leather seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, and dual-zone climate control.
  • The top-of-the-line model SX includes carbon fiber interior trim pieces, upgraded 18-inch wheels, and LED taillights.
  • There is also a hybrid version of the EX which has all of the same features with a more fuel-efficient hybrid engine.
car
EX Hybrid *Ltd Avail*
206 HP 36 MPG
car

How Long Will the 2011 Kia Optima Last?

Based on owner reviews and data, a 2011 Optima will last 150,000 miles if properly maintained. Engine failures have been reported with as little as 60,000 miles, cutting its life short. Repair Pal estimates it will cost $530 per year to maintain an Optima, which is average for its class.

accountCircle Payton A

There was a recall on the engine but after that was taken care of and replaced it has been a very reliable car.

accountCircle Tiffany B

Yes it has a few issues but is running decent for the most part. I don't know what else to say cause I mentioned this in the prior question.

accountCircle Vanessa C

The ace is the only problem I have with my car. It doesn't work while in park but it will work itself up to push out cooler air.

accountCircle Catherine P

No the 2011 Kia Optima does not have any problems. It is a great car as long as you keep up with the maintenance.

accountCircle Colleen F

I had some issues regarding an engine recall and then had to get a new transmission after. The trans did have a whole lot of miles but overall the Kia Optima is reliable

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

  • Base technology in the 2011 Optima includes a six-speaker stereo with Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Optional upgrades include a navigation system, a seven-inch infotainment screen, and an eight-speaker Infinity surround sound stereo system.
  • For safety it features electronic stability control, traction control, brake assist, and an optional backup camera with the navigation system.

VehicleHistory Image

What Engine Options are Available?

The 2011 Kia Optima engine options include standard 2.4L, 2.0L turbo, and 2.4L hybrid powertrain. The 2011 Kia Optima is not a high-performance car, but with the upgraded engine it can get from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.9 seconds. This is average for its class.

  • The base engine is a 2.4L four-cylinder making 200 horsepower.
  • An upgraded engine is the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder with 274 horsepower.
  • The optional hybrid powertrain produces a combined 206 horsepower.

What Colors Options are Available?

How Big is the Optima?

The 2011 Kia Optima is average in size for a midsize sedan. It has a roomier cabin than some of its competitors, which is more comfortable for long rides. The Optima also has average cargo space with 15.4 cu. ft. of room in the trunk. This is enough room to fit three to four large suitcases.

Centered wide dash shot

How Does the 2011 Kia Optima Compare to Other Cars?

The 2011 Kia Optima ranks 4th in the midsize car market. Competing with the Mazda6, the Kia is the more fuel-efficient and spacious option. Mazda makes a more reliable car with fewer complaints from owners. The two cars are very similar but based on owner reviews the Mazda is the better choice.

Another competitor is the Toyota Camry. The Kia has a better interior and more up-to-date technology. It also scores better in crash test ratings. Where Toyota excels, though, is in longevity and reliability. The Kia may offer more for your money, but the Toyota is less of a headache to own.

Ranks #4 Midsize Cars by Owners

1
car
4.48
2
car
4.47
3
car
4.41
4
car
4.36

Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Kia Optima a Good Cars?

No, the 2011 Kia Optima is not a good car. The engine problems can leave drivers stuck with big surprise bills and they are uncomfortable to drive. It does have a better interior than some competitors and is a safer car, but those don’t make up for its serious problems. The 2011 Optima is a car shoppers should avoid.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Jordan C on June 1, 2021
The car comes fully loaded with push start and heated and cooled seating.
Have had this car for 4 years and has been wonderful. Runs great, Kia is really helpful when it comes to recalls and things of that nature. Super reliable car gets around in the snow pretty good for being a car. Great size for a car as well, being a six foot 3 man it is hard to find a car that is comfortable in terms of leg room. I found that with this Kia, I also have a newborn baby which has to be in a car seat which also fits great in the back seat. All around a great vehicle and will be upset the day I have to get rid of it.
accountCircle Elizabeth B on May 23, 2021
2011 Kia optima is great!
I love my 2011 Kia optima ex, it is fully loaded with leather seats, XM radio, CD player, aux port, 2 charging ports, Bluetooth. I have had it about a year and I have enjoy every moment I have had it so far. It is great on gas and I have only taken on a 3 hr drive but plan to take it on vacation soon. I haven't had any major issues considered I purchased it used. Just had a clogged ac line. I love that it has tire pressure sensors so I know when I need air. It is a great car and works great for my family of 4.
accountCircle Crystal A on April 20, 2021
Kia optima is great and would recommend that car to anyone.
I love the way it drives and how it rides also. Very reliable and Kia takes care of their customers with recalls. The inside seems larger than most for most sedans and I love taking my car for long trips due to the amount of room. I have had a problem with my car burning so much oil but after all of the testing, that didn't cost me a dime, I received a new engine due to the recall. I go to Kia for every service as well.
accountCircle Victoria H on April 13, 2021
I love my 2011 Kia optima!
I haven't noticed any issues with this car at all so far! I purchased it from 1 previous owner who took amazing care of it, so it was in basically brand new condition. I have had it for almost 2 years, and it is still running amazing. It accelerates fast (turbo engine) and gets going when you need to. Get great gas mileage on freeways, too. The car looks very nice and sleek, as well. All in all, it is a very practical, nice car.
accountCircle Dre M on March 28, 2021
The vehicle is very dependable. Can drive up mountain roads.
No problems. Drives really well. Car rides are smooth. Gas lasts a decent amount of time. The car was priced at a fair amount. If well taken care of you can resale for the same amount. Car fits well for all passengers and enough truck space for groceries or packing up for a vacation.
accountCircle Morgan M on March 28, 2021
Why I love my Kia optima!
I have not had any issues other than regular wear and tear. One thing I do not like is there is a lot of road noise. It has been reliable and have gotten in two accidents, with little damage. I feel like it is a good value. I will be buying another one.
accountCircle Brandon J on March 27, 2021
My vehicle is a gloss pearl white. I love the color and shine. Overall a sleek.
I have had better. Suspension is horrible. I like the look, however. I would not purchase this car again if given a choice. Fuel economy is great and stereo system are two of the better things I enjoy about this vehicle. All in all I would give this a 2 or 3 out of 5.
accountCircle Kendall E on March 24, 2021
Awesome car, very spacious and sporty looking too!
Has all the bells and whistles, and looks like a sporty car. I live the heard and cooling seats, it is nice to have. The inside is pretty spacious and the back seats are perfect for someone with kids or a dog. There was an oil leaking problem that has gone on for a while but it is minimal.
accountCircle Tyler L on March 20, 2021
Giving insight to the cars performance and suspension.
Front wheels are very sensitive to bumps and makes me think something is broken. But other than that, love the car. Windows on both sides are automatic. Love the double sun/moonroof. The steering is very tight and suspension feels sporty. Handles corners awesome and the turbo is a lot of fun.
accountCircle Kyle H on March 8, 2021
Kia optima performance quality review.
Great mpg. Great comfort. Terrible paint job problems. It flakes everywhere. Terrible transmission and drivetrain issues.Awesome stereo and leather interior. Great sleek look and design. We have 100 thousand miles on it and it is still riding pretty well so reliable is on the plus side for sure.
accountCircle Mandi S on February 24, 2021
Why you should most definitely entertain the idea of buying the 2011 Kia optima.
I have had this vehicle for 6 years. Very sporty. Extremely reliable and provides some ample amount of space for my family. Trunk space is large and accommodating of all my work boxes, carts,etc. Interior offers Bluetooth capabilities, automatic locks for doors/windows, ac/heat. OnStar availability. Tons of driving space for my 6'4 husband. Storage space inside is great. Only con for me is how low the car sits to the ground. It makes parking a hassle occasionally as well as dodging potholes difficult. All in all it is a great reliable vehicle.
accountCircle Danielle B on February 22, 2021
It have a very big back seat so perfect for a car seat if your having a baby
It's a very good vehicle but the parts on it are just way too expensive and they costs me and arm and a leg to buy them! And I would go to a dealership and make sure you test drive for awhile like a day or two to see if You're comfortable in it because if you're looking for comfort it might not be what you're looking for in a luxury car
accountCircle Cameron M on February 20, 2021
A trustworthy sedan with good comfort.
This car is quite a smooth ride, with comfortable leather seats and responsive turning/braking/etc. The halogen bulbs that come stock are somewhat dim, so replacing them with a higher bulb temp (5000-6000k) is beneficial. The engine performs well and reliably, as long as proper maintenance is kept up.
accountCircle Mandy L on February 18, 2021
I'm not a car person, but I love it better than my old Ford Taurus.
Maintenance is easy, fairly inexpensive on most repairs. Easy to drive. Warranty is decent. "Bells & whistles" amazing.
accountCircle Ashley P on February 16, 2021
The Kia optima experience.
My car was bought in 2015. It has had a few recalls on it, but I have been able to get them fixed. Overall, it has been reliable. In regards to the interior, it has cloth seats. I have various ways to listen to music, whether it be through aux, USB, or the CD player. I like that the car is spacious. It has 150,000 miles on it. I hope I can continue to keep the vehicle in good shape.
accountCircle Anonymous C on February 10, 2021
When it comes to my car, I am lovin' it!
The moonroof got stuck open and it took days to close it. Till this day I cannot open it for fear that it will get stuck open again. The lumbar support, temp controlled seats, heated steering wheel, and everything else about the car are amazing. I wish I would have gotten some of the additional upgrades but aside from the moonroof issue, I live my car.
accountCircle Keith S on February 10, 2021
Very good car. Recommend for a first timer.
I bought the vehicle used. The software had not been updated. I read reviews online that there were problems after the update that were not present before. Car is quick. Average 37 mpg on highway and 27 going back and forth to work. Have some overheating issues from time to time, unable to locate the source. You have to have really good tires if you want to not slide around corners. This may be due to the sport suspension. You have to watch speed limit because you will be driving faster than you think.
accountCircle Marie A on February 7, 2021
The dark horse nobody sees coming.
The year was problematic for recalls. However once recalls are fixed the car has been amazing. Great gas mileage, reliable, practical and yet fun to drive and beautiful styling. I will forever own an optima. I love the trim package, leather with mesh is great for summer. It has a huge trunk and I am never wanting for storage.
accountCircle Lissa E on February 5, 2021
Kia optima. A vehicle you should give a chance to.
The headlights are uneven and dull. Adjusting them does not fix the issue. Overall thou the car runs great. The interior is beautiful and the model I bought has an amazing radio. Gets great mileage. The overall comfortability is amazing too. Buying a Kia was next level to buying a Toyota.
accountCircle Whitney G on February 3, 2021
2011 Kia Optima Review - Great Stereo, Trunk Space, & Gas Mileage!
I love my 2011 Kia Optima. There's been very few issues with it in the 9 years I have owned it. The biggest has been that the A/C doesn't get cold as quickly as it used to. As far as the features, the stereo is great and I love that you can pair multiple devices to the Bluetooth. I have my phone, tablet, computer, and husband's phone all paired so that I can swap between them anytime I need to. My biggest complaint over everything is that there's no A/C vents or power outputs in the back. This paired with the A/C not getting as cold as quick makes for some hot backseat passengers in the summer. If I give my car about ten minutes to cool off at full blast before getting in though it can get very cold. All in all, it is a great car and I recommend it to anyone looking for a nice car with great gas mileage and comfortable cloth seats. And did I mention the trunk is so big I have a bass system in it AND I can still lay down in it?
accountCircle Erica D on February 1, 2021
2011 Kia optima ex gdi engine.
My 2011 Kia optima ex is the best car I have ever owned. I went from a big SUV to the Kia optima ex and it is amazing on gas mileage and very reliable car. It has leather seats, tinted windows, very cold a/c, great bosé CD-player and sound system in it. Has a huge trunk and the back seats lay down. It is sporty and roomy. Fits me and my 3 kids just perfect. I absolutely love it.
accountCircle EC C on January 28, 2021
Wonderful but I have a few requests.
I am truly satisfied with my car. It is very sleek and economically priced. I love the panoramic sunroof but the only thing I would have preferred is if some options were standard like the auto folding side view mirrors, the lighted door frame (when you enter the car), and that it wasn't so cumbersome and costly to update the maps.
accountCircle Shay G on January 27, 2021
There's 180 on my dash. And it picks up speed almost instantly.
I love my Kia. It's a great gas saver. It picks up speed almost instantly. It is very reliable. I've owned my vehicle for about a year now and I have not had any problems with it whatsoever. It also has Bluetooth capability as well. The color of my particular vehicle is between a brown and flaky gold I love it.
accountCircle Melissa C on January 24, 2021
Comfortable, spacious & overall is a really nice vehicle.
I really like the option of manual or automatic drive, this vehicle has power steering, power windows & power locks, keyless entry, Bluetooth, a USB port & 3 power outlets. It gets good gas mileage, and is very spacious. It has a backup indicator with camera and its four wheel drive. It rides smooth has leather interior and handles well both on & off the road.
accountCircle Eli T on January 22, 2021
It runs well now considering the motor is brand new.
It's black and it has a brand spanking new motor that was installed about a couple of months ago. Now it works well.
accountCircle Julie C on January 19, 2021
I have a new engine and have kept everything up to date on my car.
No complaints, great car and good on gas. Great car. Good on gas but would like a newer car like a 2017 car.
accountCircle Jerrica R on January 19, 2021
It drives fast and looks nice.
Its having some coolant problems and overheats every now and then. The coolant continues to need to be refilled every few days. I believe since the radiator fan isn't working and that's why the car is being cooled off. There's also a coolant leak somewhere in the engine and not sure where its coming from. Generally it runs great, has great gas mileage, drives smooth, and goes really fast, it also looks really nice, and has a good radio system.
accountCircle Earrol H on January 17, 2021
I love my Kia because it allow me to use the speaker system with my phone.
I love my vehicle is actually is my first Kia and very happy with my purchase. I love the performance and the reliability playing the warranty that came with it. The driving experience is very good and I like the pickup speed that is provides. The flexibility of the seats is right to my standards because I like to change my comfort level at times.
accountCircle Sean B on January 15, 2021
Pretty good for a sedan with low cost!
Good acceleration, decent mileage, sporty, too many recalls though. Otherwise, I haven't had any issues with. It also has decent trunk space. I will recommend it to anyone looking for a sedan in the future if asked. If I needed another sedan, I would get the AWD version of this model.
accountCircle Melanie B on January 15, 2021
Kia isn't putting their customers first. They should replace defective vehicles of permanently fix the problem.
There are a couple of flaws that could have been available when engineering this vehicle. One of the problems that really bother me is the rear view mirror falls off if you barely touch it. Another is the cover on the top of the shifter also repeatedly falls off. Also we have had to take it into the dealership multiple times because of recalls which is inconvenient and also could be a sign of a serious problem.
accountCircle Sean M on January 14, 2021
The car is reliable and affordable.
The car is reliable. Easy to drive, great on gas. Has nice interior options and features. Affordable. Quiet when driving. Has eco friendly mode to help with fuel consumption. Dual sunroofs are pretty cool, allows you to feel like all the windows are down
accountCircle Kyleigh O on January 11, 2021
The Kia optima. A car for a family.
The Kia optima is very comfortable and roomy. It is exceptionally good on gas mileage. It drives very smooth. It does not make any noise while starting up or while driving. It is also relatively easy to fix when something breaks on it. The look of the car is also very sleek and nice looking.
accountCircle Dangela M on January 3, 2021
Problems with alarm system The security system goes off for no reason and locks the whole entire vehicle down
Good car to have when traveling a lot and is a nice car
accountCircle tracy c on December 27, 2020
Very reliable. I have 127000 miles and never had trouble. Just regular svc like oil changes
It is very reliable. I wish it had higher ground clearance.
accountCircle Fran L on December 27, 2020
Good gas mileage for the year of car!.
Nice looking vehicle, handles well. Good gas mileage, not crazy about the field of view in rear windows.
accountCircle Tristan B on December 26, 2020
2011 Kia optima ex fully equipped options.
I absolutely love my 2011 Kia optima ex! The color is white with the top being black and having a panoramic sunroof. It is equipped with fully loaded options. It includes a backup camera, heated steering wheel, heated and cooled front seats, heated back seat, two savable seat settings, Bluetooth, navigation, Sirius XM radio. Steering wheel controls that include radio volume, radio control, odometer settings, phone answer and end call, cruise control. Also the infinity audio system for optimal sound.
accountCircle Ali G on December 22, 2020
It has great gas mileage. It has always been reliable.
I love the gas mileage. Although it is 7 years old, the model still looks really nice and up to date. I have had no issues with it. What I dislike are the color of the cloth seats. They are light gray and show everything from water stains to Jean dye.
accountCircle Dharma J on December 18, 2020
The major benefits of the Kia.
It is a really good make I only gave it a four because I do not like cars that much. It's a nice four door car so good for a family and has a reliable child safety lock. The seats are very comfortable and easy to move for taller or shorter people. It has amazing gas mileage. I highly suggest this car to people who need a reliable car for multiple years.
accountCircle Alexa E on December 11, 2020
Amazing vehicle. You most definitely will feel safe when driving this car.
I haven't had any problems with my car since I have gotten it. Only problems I have had is the 2 tires going out other than that I haven't had any issues. The car is an amazing vehicle to have. I have no complaints this far about the vehicle. The vehicle is gives me comfort.
accountCircle Tea P on December 11, 2020
Do not buy Kia, not a reliable vehicle for anyone.
So many recalls. Not a reliable vehicle. Will never buy Kia again. New engine is already recalled. New wiring harness installed and electrical still does not work right. Rear lights only work if headlights are on and the aux cord USB port have never worked.
accountCircle Angela B on December 5, 2020
2011 Kia Optima Runs Like New! Luxury Car without the Luxury Price!
Great car, have had for over 8 years with no issues. I hope to be able to drive it for 8 more. It is a luxurious car with soft leather seats, heated steering wheel and heated/AC seats. As long as you keep up the oil change and regular maintenance, I have had zero mechanical issues. It still drives smooth and fast.
accountCircle Jennifer D on November 29, 2020
This vehicle is a great car. Very comfortable ride.
Very smooth ride. Great for long trips. Great gas mileage. Have not had an issue with the vehicle since purchasing it. I am very pleased overall with this vehicle. Trying to put a system in the car, parts are not able to be purchased without ordering from Kia online. Wish they would be more accessible in the stores. The parts I need are inexpensive so I'm not sure why they don't sell them in the stores
accountCircle Nicole B on November 26, 2020
Kia optima riding experience as well as problems.
It is a discontinued model so it is hard to fix because the parts are hard to find. Other than that it is a good vehicle. It has done me justice. I have a small family of three and it fits all of us. I have taken it out of state twice and it drives well. I have felt safe while driving this vehicle.
accountCircle Nick P on November 26, 2020
The Kia optima's are great!
I have had no mechanical problems with this car. The only repairs I have had to do are those which come with time and the amount of miles put on the vehicle. The car is comfortable a smooth ride and the road noise is minimal. It has Bluetooth functions and hands calling for comfort and rear as well as a SiriusXM radio capability.
accountCircle Bradley M on November 23, 2020
Not a great car and wouldn't buy another one.
The steering in the car is horrible. Three different car places can't figure out the issue. It pulls one way really hard and you barely pull the other the direction to help correct it and it pulls the other way. There's no driving straight. The streets aren't very comfortable and the claimed gas mileage is off.
accountCircle Brenda S on November 14, 2020
High on safety testing, yet comes with a lot of amenities.
A lot of amenities for the price point. It has a very comfortable ride. I love the cooled seats feature! No dislikes at this time.
accountCircle Anita A on November 7, 2020
It has a lot of miles and no problems.
I love the gas mileage. It has a lot of miles and no problems yet. A little small on the inside but not bad.
accountCircle Doug M on November 2, 2020
It is a reliable car with great features and good mileage.
It is a great car for work when I'm not with my family. I use this car for work and like the features and mileage.
accountCircle Payton M on October 29, 2020
Good reliable and spacious Kia optima.
Reliable car for commuting. Good as a small family car with leg room. Can fit 3 car seats tightly in the back seat. There was a recall on this car which did cause me some problems but since then it has been fixed and been a great car. The trunk is also very large and the car does great with long drives and winding roads.
accountCircle Ronnell V on October 26, 2020
It is not only beautiful but also extremely dependable
I love the look of it. The color is so beautiful. I also love the smooth ride.
avatar 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.