2014 Kia Optima Review: Problem-Ridden Midsize Sedan That’s Expensive To Fix

Oct 11, 2022

The 2014 Kia Optima only lasts around 150,000 miles with serious engine failures and gasoline leaks. At $10,475 to $12,675 it’s cheap, but not worth buying since you’ll spend a fortune keeping it running.

The Good

Interior materials are upscale for the money, the stereo system is easy to use and the 10 year/100,000 mile warranty is longer than average.

The Bad

Engine failures are very common, rear visibility is poor with the large pillars and braking distances are long.

Is the 2014 Kia Optima a Good Used Car?

Overall Rating 5/10 – 2014 is a bad year for the Kia Optima since there are a lot of problems making it earn a low overall rating. Owner reviews complain about engine failures at over 100,000 miles, an overly firm suspension, and broken interior parts.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are better than average, the improved seats are more comfortable, cargo space is also similar to other sedans.
Reliability 4/10 – Reliability ratings are terrible with widespread mechanical problems. Buyers should avoid models from 2011–2016 which all have bad engines. We recommend models from 2017–2020, which are more reliable.
Performance 7/10 – Performance is poor from the base engine while the turbocharged motor has decent power for a midsize sedan.
Safety 8/10 – The Optima is a very safe car earning a perfect 5-star rating across all government crash tests. Optional safety features include a rearview camera as well as a blind spot monitoring system.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 27 MPG, giving 500 miles of range from the 18.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $23 lower than average, at $183 per month.
Value 6/10 – The 2014 Kia Optima is cheaper than many other midsize sedans, yet it’s still not a good value since they’re so expensive to fix.

Positive Owner Reviews

Jesse T

A reliable, gas and eco conscious vehicle that will last for a long time.

It is super reliable, easy to drive, and great on gas mileage. It is comfortable, interior is easy to keep clean, and can be used for the next 10 years. For anyone who is interested in buying a reliable car with great gas mileage, the Kia optima is an excellent choice.

Davis

Great car

Passenger seat is very low. The battery is very expensive to replace. Only major problem I have had is the car shut down completely. Thought it was the alternator & it was a fuse. It ran out of gas a couple of times but no worries because it's a hybrid it didn't shut off & I made it to a gas station. After 5 years these are the only experiences I had had.

Cristine I

Best Features on Kia Optima

Love the gas mileage on this vehicle. Also I upgrade and have cooling and heated seats which is great! Love how the car drives...best kia ever

Ashley B

Kia optima is a great car!

So far no problems! My Kia optima gets great gas mileage and performs well in winter weather. Steering wheel controls are handy and Bluetooth phone capability help with being on the go. The car is very room and comfortable. The only qualm I have is that the passenger side seat is not able to be adjusted height wise on my trim package so it is very low to the ground (especially for people of shorter stature like myself).

Tracy R

The camera comes in handy and so do the power rear view mirrors.

The vehicle is very dependable and cost of maintenance is low and the style is very nice. I am happy with my purchase. I like the fact that I have the choice to change the driving modes but I have noticed that my car does tend to use a lot of gas so that is probably the only downside that I see about the car even though it gives the option to put it in eco which saves gas.

Kimberly M

Runs super quiet because it is a hybrid vehicle.

Great gas mileage because it is a hybrid and gets 50 something miles to the gallon on the highway. Plus the body style is very sporty.

Becky H

It has amazing gas mileage

The kia has amazing gas mileage. It handles great and we have had no major issues with it at all. This is our first Kia and we would definitely buy another one.

Krishna D

Love the car normal wear and tear as usual over the years.

Car does sit slow and is overall low so your front bumper can get easily damaged. The factory paint job does not last very long.

Negative Owner Reviews

Danielle M

I would never buy another Kia.

I found this car the following year with very low mileage. Within the first 3 months of ownership, it began to rattle in many areas, but nothing I could see to adjust. The trim on the exterior fell off around the windows the following year. It just seems poorly made or like they used the cheapest parts to slap this car together.

Hope vera

Engine

Worst car ever and the service department is no help they knew that people complained about the engine and they look at you like your crazy . I took my car in at least a dozen times until Icalled corporate did thatfind metal in my engine also my AC my dash they said Ihad a mouse living in my motor Ithink they gave me the run around hoping Iwould reach my 100 thousand miles so I wouldn't be covered

Hannah S

A Great Car with Difficult Steering

The car is well-made. The design is sleek and the interior looks like it is a luxury car. I have a leather interior. The seat of the driver's side adjusts automatically, which is convenient for ultimate comfort. The mirrors are adjusted automatically and the mirror that is mounted on the windshield has a mode that dims headlights at night. The dashboard is well-equipped, although I wish the speedometer was digital. The car's steering is electronic and the turn radius is fairly useful. The backseat of my car are also leather. The back row is spacious and comfortable. The car comes with a fairly large trunk that can be accessed from the rear of the vehicle. The back seats can be laid down to expand the trunk for more space. The car drives very smooth and gets good gas mileage. My biggest complaint about the car is that the steering is so sensitive. The sensitivity on the steering wheel is so great that I must grip the wheel as hard as I can to prevent myself from swerving or veering off the road. The slightest movement of the arm can send the entire vehicle into another lane.

Joanna R

That it is too low to the ground.

Dislike it because it is too small. It is too low to the ground. And hard to see outside. There are too many blind spots. I like the safety features.

Karin W

It is not a quality vehicle.

Since purchasing the vehicle, first the rear driver door wouldn't open from the inside. The rear passenger window will not open, the car hates changing gear you have to push it really hard. Just tonight, the dome lights started flickering and the front seats sit dangerously low.

Guaadlupe O

Reliable, roomy, and comfortable.

2014 Kia optima is a very nice car. Personally, it is too low for me, but is reliable, and good on gas. Miles per gallon is about 25. Only has front ac, no rear ac. Has cloth seats. Does not have rear view camera. Automatic gear. A lot of trunk space.

Sherene S

Red optima with silver stripes.

Reliable . Great on gas. I didn't have any major mechanical issues just normal maintenance required. The vehicle is great for long road trips. Its seats four adults comfortable and may two small children. I drove my vehicle from dallas Texas to orlando fl.

harry c

Love and will take you there further

Too big but more legging room. Lack of reach.

What Do Critics Say About the Kia Optima?

Consumer Reports says the Kia Optima shows its age compared to newer sedans with terrible owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds gives the Optima a 4.1/5 praising the standard tech features, but doesn’t like the small backseats.
Kelley Blue Book users rate the Optima at 4.6/5 enjoying the fuel-efficient engines, while owners don’t like the high repair costs.

What Common Problems Does the 2014 Kia Optima Have?

Common problems found on the 2014 Kia Optima include blown motors, wandering steering, as well as gas leaks. Overall, these problems are more severe than other midsize sedans, leading to higher than average repair costs as well.

Blown motors are a widespread problem found on the 2014 Kia Optima. There are known issues with the engine bearings in the Optima, which can cause the engine to seize up. A recall covers the engine bearings. There are other fluid loss and seal issues which can cause the engine to fail too, which are not covered by the recall or are out of the 100,000 mile warranty. Replacing the engine costs around $6,000 if it’s not covered by the recall.

Wandering steering is another issue reported by owners in the first 20,000 miles. The steering feels like it is pulling to one side, which is usually caused by damage to the steering box. Changing out the parts costs around $1,200, depending on local labor rates.

Gas leaks are also a serious issue which show up on some Optima models at around 120,000 miles. The fuel lines, as well as the fuel sending unit both are prone to leaks. The lines are covered by a recall, while a new fuel sending unit is $1,300.

There are 6 serious recalls on the Kia Optima, which is worse than other midsize sedans. The recalls include the engine bearing, as well as leaking fuel hoses. Both need to be addressed as soon as possible by Kia dealerships to prevent the engine from failing, or starting a fire.

How Long Will the 2014 Kia Optima Last?

A well-maintained 2014 Kia Optima may last around 150,000 miles before the costs of repair total it out, which is only half as long as the top-rated Toyota Camry. Regular annual maintenance costs are slightly higher than normal, according to data from Repair Pal, at $466 per year.

Kelly Y

Problems with trim. I wish the dash and backup camera display were bigger. Gas mileage would be better.

Candice R

Mechanic problems can be a future issue for this vehicle. Power windows and locks also the mirrors tend to jam.

Kristen B

I haven't had any problems with my car so far, and I have had it for 4 years. All I have had to do is buy new tires, change the oil, and change the filters when needed.

Diane W

Yes, I have only had it 6 months and the rear brake calipers seized and I had to be towed, other than that no other major problems.

Dejah A

Besides the wonky heating system no issues. When I turn the heat or the air off it still blows out air.

amy v

Yes very reliable so far. It is also good on gas. Drives very smooth. Easy to drive on freeways. My favorite car I ever had.

Kina P

Very reliable. Luckily I have never had any issues. As long as keeping up with maintaining the car doing oil changes and new tires.

Rhonda M

No problems at all my daughter loves it too she uses it for school as she drives 22 miles back and forth.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is average in the 2014 Kia Optima with standard Bluetooth connectivity along with an optional touchscreen display. The safety technology is also similar to other sedans with an optional rearview camera, parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, as well as rear cross-traffic alert.

Is the 2014 Kia Optima a Good Value?

No, the 2014 Kia Optima is a bad value since there are so many expensive mechanical problems. Blue book prices range from $10,475 to $12,675, making it cheaper than a Honda Accord or VW Passat. When new, the price range was $21,500 to $35,300. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 15% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Kia Optima?

There are four models of the Kia Optima offered for 2014 from the base LX all the way up to the luxurious Limited.

LX is the entry-level model with:

16-Inch Alloy Wheels
Cloth Seating
Keyless Entry
Cruise Control
Bluetooth Connectivity
6-Speaker Stereo System

EX is in the middle of the lineup, adding:

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Leather Seating
Keyless Ignition
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Power Driver’s Seat
Optional Panoramic Sunroof
Optional 8-Inch Touchscreen Navigation

SX is a sportier version with:

18-inch Alloy Wheels
Sport Tuned Suspension
LED Tail Lights
Xenon Headlights
Sport Steering Wheel

Limited is the luxury model, adding:

Unique 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
Premium Leather Seating
LED Fog Lights
Electronic Parking Brake

192 HP 27 MPG

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192 HP 27 MPG

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192 HP 27 MPG

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SX Turbo

274 HP 24 MPG

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SXL Turbo

274 HP 24 MPG

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What Engines Come In the Kia Optima?

The base engine is an average 2.4L 4-cylinder which makes 192 horsepower while getting up to 27 MPG.
A step up is the stronger 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder which generates 274 horsepower at up to 24 MPG. Performance is okay, taking 7.5 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Kia Optima Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Kia Optima?

The 2014 Kia Optima is a very comfortable midsize sedan with room for up to 5 people. Interior materials are nicer than some other cars in the same price range with supportive seats.

Passenger space is good throughout the cabin with enough legroom for adults in the back seats. Some taller adults may find limited headroom in the back seats, though, due to the sloping roofline.

How Much Storage Space Does the Kia Optima Have?

Cargo space is average for a sedan its size, with enough room in the trunk for 4-6 standard size suitcases.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The third generation of the Kia Optima was introduced in 2011 and replaced by the fourth generation in 2016.

2012: Uvo voice command system added to all but the base model, redesigned front seats.

2013: New Limited model introduced, EX Turbo model discontinued.

2014: Minor exterior styling updates, better front seats, optional blind spot monitoring added.

2015: Updated Uvo, SX Limited model renamed to SXL.

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

2017: Upgraded LED headlights on the SX model.

2018: New sporty S model introduced, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto standard.

How Does the Kia Optima Compare to the Competition?

The Kia Optima is one of the worst midsize sedans available from 2014. Buyers should avoid it since there are so many serious mechanical problems.

The Hyundai Sonata is a competitor which is available in the same price range. Both sedans are built on the same platform, however, the Hyundai Sonata has a slightly more luxurious interior. We recommend avoiding both for the 2014 model year since they have the same engine problems.

The Toyota Camry is another sedan, which costs about $3,000 more. Reliability ratings are significantly better in the Toyota Camry, while the Kia Optima has a more upscale interior with higher-quality materials. We recommend the Toyota Camry for a used car since they last much longer.

Ranks #7 Midsize Cars by Owners

2014 Subaru Legacy

4.61

2014 Honda Crosstour

4.59

2014 Kia Optima

4.39

Do Owners Recommend the Kia Optima?

Kelly Y

Yes. Reliable and easy to drive. Gas mileage could be better. I am an average sized person and it's comfortable.

Candice R

Yes, it runs great and the body is nice. I purchased a year ago as a certified used vehicle and it has leather seats.

Kristen B

Yes, it is held up very nice. It drives smoothly, has great gas mileage, and is very low on maintenance.

Diane W

Yes, I like it, I especially like all the features, ex; sunroof heated and air conditioned seats, passing warning, back up mirror, turbo charge.

Dejah A

Yes it is dependable and loaded with tons of safety features! It also has heated/ cooled seats and a panoramic sunroof.

amy v

Yes I love it. Love the look and the Bluetooth capability. I also love the color and the way it runs.

Kina P

Yes I believe it is a great vehicle. The miles to gallon is great. Very spacious from inside highly recommend to anyone wanting to purchase a new car.

Rhonda M

Yes good car smooth drive easy maintenance great color not much gas needed easy drive not much gas needed for the highway.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Bryan on January 28, 2023

Great vehicle, unfortunate engine issue

I bought our 2014 Kia Optima brand new. Gave it to our daughter in 2022. Never had a problem, other than starter and battery, until it had 170,000 miles on it. The engine went. Kia replaced the engine no questions asked. Fit and finish is great. The seats are super comfortable. Still a nice car to drive and stylish. When I jump in it occasionally I get kind of jealous. Still a very nice sedan

Torri H on June 25, 2021

When my engine blew, there was a recall and I had a brand new engine put in.

I just recently had a engine problem where my engine blew but there was a recall on my vehicle. I love the way it drives though. It is the perfect car to just drive to work and home. Kia’s are very good on gas, I could have a full tank for a long time.

Katie B on June 20, 2021

Kia optimas are great cars.

Besides having to get the motor replaced (due to a recall), I absolutely love my car. It drives very nice, the inside is totally up to date, and it is very comfortable for long car rides. The trunk size is nice, but if you lay the back seats down, the opening is very small to get to the trunk. I would prefer to have a larger opening so that I can store larger things if I need to.

Hilary M on June 3, 2021

Kia optima is a great value when looking for a new car.

My 2014 Kia optima is a good value. I get 25-30 miles to the gallon so mileage is great. The seats are not leather but a vinyl-type that are easy to keep clean. The car has decent power when accelerating. It is a 4 cylinder engine so I am not expecting crazy amounts of power. But I have no problems accelerating quickly enough to safely enter traffic on city streets or highways. My car is a silver color which is nice and neutral. The ac works great and the sound system is adequate for an average sedan.

Jordan G on May 20, 2021

Overall my car is an okay car just had a lot of difficulties in the beginning.

My engine in my 2014 Kia optima blew 3 times. One as I was driving to Columbus Georgia to see my dad side of the family. I was stuck on the highway for about one hour until a tow truck finally showed up and rescue me. The next time it blew was when I was at the grocery store.

Mary H on May 17, 2021

Kia optima ex is a fantastic vehicle to own.

I have had my Kia optima since 2014, brand new when I purchased. This is my 3rd Kia this car is comfortable, reliable, as well as having many great features. Heated steering wheel, heated and cooling seats. GPS, hands free phone. Too many to list. I have had zero problems with my car. I currently have 78000 miles on the vehicle and have only had a tune up twice. Oil changes every three thousand miles. It has keyless entry which makes me feel safe when returning to vehicle when it is dark. I believe that Kia is an great buy. That you would be more than happy with the purchase.

Madeline W on May 16, 2021

It has Bluetooth to connect to my phone so that I can play music.

I have had no problems since I have gotten the car. It drives and rides smooth, looks great, and is reliable. The seats are comfortable and it looks like a slick car. It is also very great on gas. I love my car and it is the first one I have had and I feel like it is going to last a very long time.

Christa T on May 15, 2021

Turbo engine 2014 Kia optima.

The turbo engine is awesome, and this car is great on gas. It gets me to and from school (6+ hour drive) with about 1/4 a tank left. It is comfortable to drive, you have a lot of control over the car. Notable features include Bluetooth audio/handsfree, and dual ac. I have found myself having many issues with this car. The tires are always needing to be replaced, the brakes are constantly squeaky and also need to be replaced, the led headlights the car comes with are $900 a piece to replace and the need to replaced frequently (personally).

Paul S on May 15, 2021

There is Bluetooth capability, traction control and XM radio.

Haven't had any performance issues, very reliable, nice size on the inside and cool features like Bluetooth capability and traction control. As long as you keep up with the maintenance this is a very nice car to have.

Adrianna R on May 11, 2021

Amazing comfortable and timeless driving.

It amazing with mileage and comfortability. It drives and rides very smooth without any reaction from bumps on the road. Seats 5 very comfortably as well. The only problem I ran into is that the battery went dead in it shortly after I bought it so when I went to replace it the battery wasn't dated for me to know when it was last replaced.

Jocelyn G on April 28, 2021

Kia optima 2014 personal review.

Seats are warm in winter. Sometimes it makes some weird noises out of nowhere from the left speaker on the drivers side. Randomly pop up some icons on the dashboard but then randomly disappear as well. But overall it is a good car runs well no critical issues.

Jahmar R on April 13, 2021

Reliable and sporty vehicle.

Very comfortable, needs more space for my family though. Great on gas and I love the model design. I have had issues with the dash a few times with it not displaying accurate info as far as gas mileage sometimes but other than that I have been satisfied with the vehicle.

Marsha H on April 7, 2021

My Kia optima drives well.

Good dependable car for me. Gets me where I am going every day. Drives well. Heat and air work well for me. I would possibly but car like this again. But passenger front seat is too low to ground and it is hard to see out of back right of car. Gas mileage is good. Accelerates well. But lights are too dim. I like Hondas better.

Jason F on April 4, 2021

My favorite car the 2014 optima sxl.

My Kia optima sxl is a fun car and super reliable. The mileage is still amazing after almost 7 years with it. I have been able to drive it to San Luis Obispo, ca to San Diego,ca and still have a quarter tank of gas. With the sxl model the interior is leather with a nice diamond stitching. What I love about it most is the sporty yet luxurious look it has inside and out.

Angelique G on March 30, 2021

The highlights of my car is the turbo and its eco friendly.

I do not find very much wrong with my car. Sometimes it stutters a little but I haven't had any other major problems. I have also noticed some stuff with my breaks. No matter if I put new brakes or not the squeak a lot and I feel like I have to slam on the brakes just to slow down.

Taylor W on March 29, 2021

Good for people who want to travel or just stay in town for a drive around.

Performance is good, great for traveling, good miles on the car, gas lasts some time. Although the window wipers tend to wear away over time and the brakes tend to get squeaky. But if you are really into Kia’s I suggest the newer optima’s and some of their SUV’s.

Krystal F on March 28, 2021

The model I have is very spacious even though it looks small on the outside.

The performance is on point the Kia company makes sure your vehicle is always taken care of. They always offer maintenance check ups every 6 months free of charge. I recommend shopping with Kia. The customer service is always available to answer my concerns.

Luke S on March 23, 2021

Good reliability. Great all weather vehicle for a FWD sedan.

So far no real issues have appeared since purchased used from my local Kia dealer in summer of 2017. Performs well in all weather conditions. The reliability has surpassed my expectations since owning the vehicle aside from a few recalls that were addressed at no charge from the dealership.

Lala C on March 16, 2021

My Kia optima is a great affordable car. This car is high on comfort and style.

I haven't had many issues with my car. There has been a few recalls that have been promptly addresses. I keep up with the maintenance and use clean gas. The car is fully loaded with leather interior and is quite comfortable. I love the heated and cooling seats. The interior is also very spacious. The times that I am a passenger in my car I realize all of the extra space.

Chastity W on March 16, 2021

Very awesome Kia Optima ex

Extremely reliable, has great gas mileage, very minimal problems with this car. Super comfortable, Let me know How many miles per gallon, my next oil change. Has Bluetooth features. Cruise control option. Great performance very smooth ride. I really love this car I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.

Lianne B on March 14, 2021

The car has plenty of legroom. It is very comfortable.

The vehicle has a defect that causes the car key to get stuck in the ignition sometimes. Apparently, it is a problem with the sensors that indicate you have parked the car and it is common for this model. Everything else about the vehicle is great, I love it.

Sara M on March 12, 2021

2014 key optima silver se.

Great vehicle with great gas mileage, not many recalls. Nice speed, nice interior, very dependable. Window should be tinted darker, rides smoothly, spacious for family. Needs more charging outlets. Battery is great! Push start, rather have remote start.

Christina R on March 11, 2021

The Kia Optima LX is a reliable vehicle.

The car is reliable. It is not a gas 'guzzler '. The only issues I have had with my car are minor, such as brake lights and tires. However, you have to get oil changes every 3 months, depending on how much you drive the car. The car is a bit bumpy( I feel a lot of the bumps in the road) but it's not too bad. Overall, it is not a bad car to purchase on a budget.

Jose V on March 11, 2021

I think what's important about it is the money you'll save on gas

It's a prefect car and its easier to control. Very maneuverable and gas costs are cut at fractions of the price. I genuinely love how spacious and comfortable it is

Rosemary W on March 9, 2021

Sorry to have outgrown my stylish Kia optima. I love this car.

I do not have problems other than my family has outgrown my Kia. Time for an SUV my youngest is now in school so I have more people to transport I do not know what else I can say. I have never had issues with my Kia. My son is a mechanic and has always kept it up.

Sydney F on March 9, 2021

Spacious, reliable and comfortable.

Very spacious and comfortable. I haven't had any problems with it since I got it. I really enjoy the seat warmers and the eco feature to save a little on gas. I comfortably fit 4 people and all of our suitcases down and back from Florida. The vehicle also gets really great gas mileage and I only have to fuel up once every week or two.

Katie W on March 7, 2021

My thoughts. Pros and cons.

It isn't very good in the rain or the snow. It's very roomy and comfortable. It accelerates pretty quickly and the braking system is awesome! There's no emergency break though. I have the white one and it looks like it was painted with the pearl coating which is very beautiful. The trunk is also very large which is great.

A L on March 6, 2021

Great deal and comfortable, like driving a Mercedes without the expense.

My Kia optima hybrid, gets great gas mileage. Handles well for short or long commutes. Very comfortable seats and I love the fully loaded amenities.

Alesha C on March 2, 2021

My Kia optima is very comfortable with unique features that anyone would love.

My 2014 Kia optima lx is great! It fits my style. The seats are beige & comfortable. It comes with plenty of features that I absolutely love. It drives great! I have had no problems since I have had it. My radio system is very unique. Everything is comfortable & I love the entire car.

Rosemary R on February 28, 2021

Kia Optima 2014- Nice car!

This Kia Optima That I leased from my local dealer, is in great condition. The interior is in mint condition and has black leather seating. Which I believe makes more a comfortable ride.

Sherene S on February 23, 2021

Red optima with silver stripes.

Desiree H on February 23, 2021

This Kid is amazing to drive and will pick up when needed.

So great on gasoline comfy to no end with plenty of legroom. Good quality family car but still very much sporty. Drives so smooth and picks up so lovely. Keep good tires on the car because you are going to need them. The turbo might be little but its does the job.

Mariah B on February 22, 2021

Amazing car all around. Go buy one!

It is huge, and comfortable. Best decision I ever made when it came to a car:) heated and ac seats. Leather interior. Double sunroof. Plenty of leg and trunk space. I would highly recommend and purchase again. Drives smoothly and has Sirius radio system.

Lew P on February 21, 2021

Do not judge a foreign car but it name, it could be a diamond in the ruff.

My 2014 Kia is really good on gas. It has all the goodies sun roof, moon roof, Cruz control, a/c, electric mirrors, electric seats with warmers both front and back. It has controls in the steering wheel for the Bluetooth with smartphone capability and a sound system that a am-FM CD player that lets you feel the music along with hearing it. ( mood sitter )you catch the right corner with the right song you'll be very surprised to find it is very fast from a dead stop. It handles really good at higher speeds but does not have a tight turning radius, as in doing a U-turn. Only low point for me is how low you sit, because I 'am very tall it make it hard to get in and out of the car.

Kat F on February 21, 2021

Amazing family friendly car with a sporty feel!

I love my car, it has a lot of extras on it including heating seats, heated steering wheel, air conditioning seats, full top sunroof that slides open, all leather, too much to name! Rides great, it did have a recall on the motor right after I purchased it but Kia replace the it with a new motor!

Ireana A on February 18, 2021

Love the car other than the recalls that are on the engine.

I love the car, the speed is a little concerning because it does get up to speed. A very comfortable and reliable car. The only problem is that they have a lot of problems with recalls with the engine. It is also a very friendly car for first time drivers.

Vic M on February 15, 2021

A small but mighty road trip car.

This car is extremely reliable. While it may look small, it has a very surprising amount of storage. We took this car on a road trip across the us and it held up beautifully. We've really never had any issues with the car even though we've put it through lots of travel. A super reliable vehicle, I couldn't ask for a better car.

Mary V on February 13, 2021

It is very reliable. It has good gas mileage.

Wanted a bigger vehicle. I would like to have leather seats. I would like 4 wheel drive. . I also wanted a sunroof.

Matt S on February 13, 2021

Definitely a positive choice.

My automobile has had a few recent manufacturer recalls that did not require any major work. My automobile has maintained normal maintenance circumstances. I enjoy the comfort it provides both internal and external. I would definitely recommend to others.

Jaide T on February 9, 2021

To me the best part about it is the sunroof. It has two!

I have had my car for 3 years now. It is has not given me any problems. It still looks as good as when I bought it. I love the sunroof, heated/cooled seats and steering wheel, and the leather interior. It is a really nice car. It looks very sporty on the outside.

Rachel Z on February 8, 2021

You should buy this car. It's awesome and reliable

Great car. Reliable and has a smooth ride. Decent gas mileage. Really awesome. Happy with my purchase.

Rasa T on February 7, 2021

The mirrors fold in when you lock it.

I love my car so much. Glad I picked the brand. It is really good on gas. I have had my car for over a year and only needed my oil changed once. Nothing has broken down on me. Only thing I have had an issue with is my key fobs going dead for my push to start.

Nikesha H on February 3, 2021

Great audio system. For a factory system I think it's the best on the market.

Love the radio. Hate that it's falling apart before it's paid for.

Jessica A on February 3, 2021

Blinker alerts and keyless entry, heated and cooled seats

I bought the vehicle fully loaded so it has all the amenities. The exterior materials feel weak and the front end is a bit low.

Andrew D on February 1, 2021

Well built modern car for mostly anyone.

The car is very good and the materials on it are all solid as well as the finish of the vehicle is very nice and sleek. Very well built modern car that will suit the needs of most people and it has very good mileage as well. It will hold up to all the commutes that you need and it has plenty of space.

Shirley B on February 1, 2021

It runs good, and there are still features I don't get time to learn.

Got new engine due to recall but otherwise have taken advantage of the free oil changes. However, It's not the most comfortable car I have ever been in.

nesha k on January 31, 2021

Its sleek and you can get a custom color at the dealership

I like that it's the right size for me, i love the color and features, i just wish there were more features on the app for diagnosis.

Erica E on January 29, 2021

Kia optimas are a great buy!

I had my car for four years and it ran great until the engine was recalled at 79,000 miles. It was replaced at no cost due to the 100,000 mile warranty on the car replaced at no cost. It is great on gas and is comfortable, affordable, and reliable. Very practical.

Amanda H on January 29, 2021

Why I love my 2014 Kia Optima lx car.

I really enjoy my 2014 Kia Optima it drives smooth has Bluetooth calling very handy all the controls are in the steering wheel for safety and convenience there is cruise control, radio volume and changing, servicing menu, calling, very roomy inside seats up to 5 people, and there's lots of space in the trunk to.

Dyanah F on January 29, 2021

How many safety features the Optima has. You are surrounded with airbags and more!

I love my Kia Optima! It's very sporty looking and a beautiful silver color. Most importantly it runs great and I haven't had any problems!

Jessica M on January 28, 2021

It gets great gas mileage and it's a smooth and comfortable ride.

I like that's its small but has enough space. I like that it has Bluetooth for my music. The truck is big. I don't dislike anything about it.

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.