2015 Kia Optima Review: An Efficient & Safe Sedan That Feels Dated to Drive

Oct 11, 2021

The 2015 Kia Optima is available used from $12,341 to $19,721, comparable to other midsize sedans in its class. The Optima is missing some of the latest technology, and has some engine problems.

The Good

The 2015 Kia Optima scores well for safety. It’s a fuel-efficient sedan and the upgraded SX model can be fun to drive.

The Bad

Serious mechanical issues including engine failures plague the Optima. It doesn’t have the latest technology, and it’s not as roomy as some of the competition.

The Bottom Line

The 2015 Kia Optima is a sedan that feels dated to drive. Its reliability is questionable, making it a poor for someone looking for a midsize sedan.

2015 Kia Optima: Quick Overview

The 2015 Kia Optima isn’t the longest-lasting sedan on the market and it has reliability issues. It’s available used from $12,341 to $19,721. The SX with the turbocharged engine is the sportiest model.
Two powertrain choices are offered. The 2.4L offers better fuel efficiency and the 2.0T gives you better performance.
The 2015 Optima is near the middle of its class in fuel efficiency. Owners and critics agree the 2.4L engine does not feel powerful enough for a sedan this size.
In 2015 there were five different models offered for the Optima with an updated infotainment system. This is a safe sedan earning a five-star crash test rating from the NHTSA, and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award.
The 2015 Kia Optima ranks low in its class compared to the competition. It doesn’t have the technology and reliability that one wants from a car at this price. Overall, it’s hard to recommend the Optima because of these issues.

Positive Owner Reviews

Emily P

It is exactly what I want.

It has everything I want and need. It is has style and luxury. I love that it is fully loaded with all the cool features and stuff. I love that I have heating and cooling seats and a heated steering wheel.

Chris P

The best bang for your buck.

What I love about my Kia to begin with was the looks of the car followed by the reasonable price tag. Another thing is most Kia dealerships offer a pretty good warranty, for example mine is 100,000 miles or 10 years whichever comes first. The mileage is pretty good and has the option of setting the car on econ mode that helps improve it even more. The car easily sits 5 people and is very reliable. The only thing I have had wrong with my car is the air conditioning wouldn't turn off and one of the windows would roll down but would take a while to roll back up, but like I mentioned the warranty covered it with no money out of pocket. I would recommend if you're looking for a nice affordable car, the Kia optima is the way to go.

Kara M

The dealership is very fair and the car is safe feeling.

The way it drives is nice. The warranty is very good. The features are easy to understand. The passenger seat not comfortable.

Wendy C

They should know the Kia Optima is a fun and smooth ride. Very stylish and still sporty enough. Do keep in mind that the front seats are pretty low. Might be hard for people with certain types of physical restrictions to get out of the car.

I love the sleek look and how roomy it is. Backseat has a ton of legroom and the trunk is huge. Pretty good on gas. The only thing I dislike is the placement of air vents on the passenger side: they are somewhat blocked by steering wheel.

Jessica V

Works great runs like new great warranty.

Good on gas, spacey interior, runs great looks good I'm happy to say I've owned it for 3 yrs. . And up until now I haven't had a recall on it. . Great working car.

Jeanne D

The back-up camera is very important for peace of mind.

Very sturdy, exciting design, drives well, lots of extras. Includes a backup camera that makes driving safer. Very roomy back seat.

Wendy R

Love my Kia, would buy another!

My Kia optima is my everyday driver. I drive a minimum of 100 miles per weekday. It is also our go to vehicle when taking trips or family outings. Gas mileage is good. It drives good on the interstate. I would definitely buy another. The trunk has plenty of room. The back seat had plenty of room as long as both front seats aren't extended all the way back. You'd have to be 6'6' or more to need the seat that far back.

Brad M

Spacious and reliable; good for a daily driver or a road trip.

Great for long road trips, gas mileage is decent and all seats are set at a slight decline so everyone can relax and sleep in comfort. The vehicle drives really well and has a great turning radius. The front trim seems cheap and plastic but that is the only complaint I have.

Negative Owner Reviews

Donna C

Kia optima warranty is not good if you are buying the car used.

Engine bad car under 30k mileage warranty will not cover cause I bought the car used 2015 Kia optima.

JeffreyDaw

Defective Motor

A 2.0 turbo motor has a factory defect and lasts an average of 60500 Miles mine went out at 58,000 miles. Other than that it's been a great car.

Sheila woodland

Overall great car after receiving new engine

Leased my 2015 Optima but within a year the dealer had to install a new motor because my engine had metal shavings in the oil.. Had a couple recalls on it. I felt I was given a lemon from the start. Do not buy or lease from Kia of el cajon.

Shannon Grady

Miss

2015 Kia Optima seemed great, until the knock sensor, engine AUX canister went as well as the bearings and the engine is no good.

Lori

Engine Failure

Kia engines fail and the company has refused millions repair or replacement despite billions in fines and class action settlements. Buy American!

jerry Hayes

Sucks

NO, this slow start made me have a accident. Trying to turn left in the center lane. Did not know about the slow start. (Just purchased it.) I took off like you would drive any car it seem to stall then took off. By then the on coming car had moved closer. 2 or 3 seconds and it was over. I hit the on coming car on the drivers side. I'm going to the hospital. Know what you are buying before you buy!

Gail Patterson

Airbag failure

Air bags failed in accident after 3 year owned. I couldn't find any recalls for this vehicle & never were give any information from KIA service in past. Not a Happy owner now but lucky to be alive.

raechelle brown

I hate this car

I have replaced the battery engine and brakes on 2015. I've not finished paying for it and it still isn't running

Is the 2015 Kia Optima a Good Used Car?

When the 2015 Kia Optima was first launched, it received rave reviews from critics, but that reputation has faltered. Owners report issues with engine failures and other problems. The Optima ranks eighth overall based on owner reviews in the midsize sedan category. One of the strongest selling points for the Optima is the long 10-year powertrain warranty, helping reduce costs down the road.

How Much is a Used 2015 Kia Optima?

Pricing for a used 2015 Kia Optima starts at $12,341 and goes up to $19,721 as of 2021. This pricing will vary depending on the car’s condition, mileage, and trim. A 2015 Optima had an original price of $21,840 to $35,500.

What Problems Does the 2015 Kia Optima have?

The 2015 Kia Optima problems include recalls for leaking brake fluid, airbag failure investigation, and seized engines. The most serious issue with the 2015 Optima is engine problems. There are over 255 engine complaints reported to the NHTSA for this model year. Owners report their engine will sometimes seize, stall, and die, and may not start again. This is becoming more common with the Optima as they get older and rack up the miles.

There are also a few frequently reported problems. One of the most common issues the Optima has involves the door latches. A bad latch assembly can make the doors very difficult to open. A latch replacement fixes the problem.

What are the 2015 Kia Optima Models?

The 2015 Kia Optima’s five trim levels provide good value for the money in a reliable family sedan.

The base 2015 Kia Optima is the LX with 16-inch alloy wheels, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker stereo system with CD, USB, and an AUX port
An upgrade from the LX model, the EX adds a keyless ignition system, leather seats, dual-zone A/C, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Moving another step up, the SX has an upgraded suspension, optional 2.0L turbocharged engine, LED taillights, and 18-inch wheels.
Top-of-the-line SXL features upgraded leather seating, LED fog lights, and Xenon headlights.

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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How Long Will the 2015 Kia Optima Last?

Kia has improved its quality over the years and a 2015 Optima should last over 150,000 miles, if you can avoid the engine problems. We reached this estimate based on ownership data across Kia’s model range. According to Repair Pal, it will cost about $470 per year to maintain a 2015 Optima. The most expensive repair that owners report is the cylinder head replacement. This fix comes in at $3,000 to $3300, and fortunately, it is a rare issue. If you want your Optima to last a long time, keeping up with scheduled maintenance is very important.

What Technology Does the 2015 Kia Optima Have?

The 2015 Kia Optima has a base stereo with six speakers including USB/AUX jacks and Bluetooth technology.
Infotainment technology can be upgraded to a UVO2 Infotainment system with voice control powered by Microsoft, and a rearview camera.
An eight-speaker Infinity surround sound system for better sound quality is also an available upgrade.
An optional brake assist system to help increase braking force to prevent accidents comes standard on the SXL trim.

Does the 2015 Kia Optima have Good Gas Mileage?

There are two engines available for the 2015 Kia Optima. The base 2.4L gives you a combined fuel rating of 26 miles per gallon. If you upgrade to the more powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine, you get a combined rating of 24 miles per gallon.

What Engine Options Does The 2015 Kia Optima Have?

Performance in the 2015 Kia Optima is decent for a midsize sedan. With the optional 2.0L turbo engine, 0-60 is achieved in 6.6 seconds. The upgraded suspension on the SX model also gives it a more sporty feel.

The base engine in the 2015 Kia Optima is a 2.4L four-cylinder that makes 192 horsepower.
An upgraded 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine is available that produces 274 horsepower.

What Colors Does the 2015 Kia Optima Come in?

How Safe is the 2015 Kia Optima?

In 2015, the Kia Optima received a five-star crash test rating from the NHTSA. In their tests, the Optima earned a five-star overall ranking across the board for frontal crash, side crash, and rollover. There is an optional rearview camera, but more advanced safety technologies like forward collision warning or lane departure warning systems are not available.

The IIHS awarded the Kia Optima a Top Safety Pick in 2015 as well. In the IIHS tests, the optima scored “good” in all cases aside from “small overlap front driver side” where it scored “acceptable.” Driver injury scores were also “good” across the board, meaning the Optima protects occupants during a crash.

How Big is the 2015 Kia Optima?

The 2015 Kia Optima is a midsize sedan and is about the same size as the rest of the competition. It’s 191 inches long, 72 inches wide, and 57 inches tall. The Optima 15.4 cu. ft. of cargo space in the trunk, enough to haul golf clubs, luggage, and groceries with ease.

How Does the 2015 Kia Optima Compare to Other Cars?

One of the 2015 Kia Optima’s strongest competitors is the Honda Accord. The Accord ranks at the top of the list for midsize sedans for the 2015 model year, and it beats the Optima in nearly every way. It has a funner driving experience, better interior materials, and more technology.

Another competitor is the 2015 Hyundai Sonata. These two are a closer match, but the Hyundai has better technology since being redesigned in 2015. Hyundai also adds more safety features than Kia, making it the better choice. The Optima feels dated when compared to the Sonata.

Ranks #8 Midsize Cars by Owners

2015 Honda Accord

4.59

Tie

2015 Toyota Camry

4.53

2015 Kia Optima

4.4

Final Verdict: Do We Recommend the 2015 Kia Optima?

It is hard to recommend the 2015 Kia Optima. It does score well regarding fuel efficiency and safety, but lacks in other areas. It can do most things that a midsize sedan should do, but doesn’t stand out from the pack. The Optima lacks the technology and reliability of its competitors. It also has engine failures requiring an expensive fix if when not covered under warranty.

Photos: Kia

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Cristy on July 3, 2023

BEWARE!! Kia will not stand behind their vehicles!

I usually don’t leave reviews on anything. If I could leave zero stars for Kia in general I would. I have a 2015 Kia optima. My car has 59,000 miles on it. It has been very well taken care of. All of a sudden the engine goes bad out of the blue. When checking in to what was going on, we found out there had been some recalls on our car that we knew nothing about, one being the engine. We never received any recall information on my car. Kia refuses to honor the recall, because they said they sent recall notices and that we did not take care of the recalls. We did NOT receive any recall information, because who in their right mind would not take care of a recall on their car if they received it. Kia will not stand behind their vehicles. They refused to even talk to us about it and did not care that we did not receive any recall notices. Now it is going to cost 5,000.00 to get a new engine for an 8 year old car that has 59,000 miles. DO NOT BUY A KIA. This is one of the worst experiences we’ve ever had with a vehicle. The car has been good up until this point, but beware that if you have problems, KIA will not take care of them, even though they are suppose to. I am very disappointed in KIA, and will never own another vehicle made by Kia.

Cheryl G on October 11, 2021

My 2015 Kia optima lx is a great car!

My 2015 Kia optima has been one of my favorite cars to date. The size is perfect for me and my family of four. Driving the car is comfortable as everything is within reach and visibility is good. I like the lumbar support, although the headrest has an odd design. The passenger seat is very comfortable too but it sits much lower which seems a little odd. The backseat is comfortable and has a pull down cup holder/storage. The trunk is very roomy and by folding part of the back seat, can hold long items and quite a bit of capacity. Overall, I have really enjoyed this car which has average gas mileage stats and look forward to driving it for several more years.

Nea K on October 12, 2021

Why I love the Kia optima!

The Kia optima is rather large in size, comfy seats and great for road trips. I really love driving around in it as it's quiet and doesn't make much noise. It's very comfortable when going for long car rides. I would suggest buying this car because it's really good on gas and mileage. Don't like the fact that it's a 2015 make and model fool you, my car is still running extremely strong and I have no plans of trading it in just yet. If you're looking for a nice, medium sized family car, this one might just be for you!

Keiya B on October 12, 2021

Kia optima 2015 clean appearance, very reliable car.

My 2015 Kia optima is an excellent car even though it is a few years old it runs like a brand new car. I have not had any issues since I have gotten this car. I would say that you have to be careful when driving on a wet road I believe I tried to speed off a little too fast and the car did a little jerk as if I turned it off but that is probably typical when pushing on the gas a little too hard on a wet road. Despite that little incident the car is very reliable, great clean look from the outside and inside as well.

Sydney S on October 12, 2021

On our Kia optima I really like the panoramic sunroof.

We have a 2015 Kia optima. It has been such and amazing car. It has leather seats that are heated and air conditioned. It also has a heated steering wheel and the panoramic sunroof that I love. We have never had any mechanical problems with the car. It gets really good gas mileage as well, it's anywhere between 30 to 36 mpg when we are on the freeway. It also had an eco option that you can switch to and it gets even better gas mileage.

Jonathan R on October 12, 2021

My car is red 2015 Kia optima.

What I love about my vehicle is that it has Bluetooth, has great gas mileage, tells me how many miles I can keep driving before I run out of gas, & I have been using this car for 3 years and I have not had any serious problems since. The only problems I have with my car is that when I fix something (oil change, tires) the light does not disappear and when I am trying to connect Bluetooth sometimes it will not connect right away.

Shana L on October 11, 2021

My 2015 Kia optima experience.

I purchased my car brand new in 2015 with 7 miles. Almost 5 years later I have not had anything other than normal wear and tear items to fix ie: oil changes, brakes, tires. I did have to replace the battery about a year or so after I purchased it, but it was covered under my warranty so there was not any out of pocket expense to me at the end of the day as I was fully reimbursed. The fuel economy is great. I really like my car.

Catherine J on October 11, 2021

Love my 2015 Kia optima, with a few exceptions.

Great gas mileage, shock absorber suspension. The bucket seats can be a little uncomfortable, and make it a little difficult to get in and out of the car. I am tall and have a long torso, so I have trouble with the roof of the car being so low. Additionally, I have difficulty with the high beam switch being so close to the blinker function, as I frequently accidentally turn on my high beams without realizing it.

London J on October 12, 2021

Great car! Incredibly roomy and great on highway mileage!

The 2015 Kia Optima LX I have is highly reliable. It is very much roomy for those who are taller but the backseats can get cramped quickly. It drives real smooth and it gets good highway miles. I will say however that there seems to be a consistent problem with how well the A/C within the car works. All around a great car in my opinion and I plan on looking into purchasing another Kia in the future.

Roy on June 26, 2022

Motor

My dad bought 2015 brand new 175k motor blew Kia replaced it under lawsuit car gets totaled after I take ownership fast forward 8 months buy another 2015 Kia Optima 2 days after I bout it put roughly 400 miles on car it engine blows 146k on motor Kia says should be under recall warranty so I love them but man watch out for the faithful flaw in the motor just hope Kia keeps fixing as they go

Aaron F on October 12, 2021

2015 Kia optima ex is a great car!

I have not had any problems yet, and I am at 45000 miles. It's very comfortable to sit in, I'drives great. Mine doesn't have all the bells and whistles, but I have leather seats and dual climate zone. The seats have held up great and don't seem to have too much wear yet. Gas mileage is also awesome. I usually get right around 500 miles per tank, which is a little under 30 mpg.

Cydney H on October 11, 2021

Kia optima is a great and reliable car. It gets great gas mileage.

I just recently purchased my 2015 Kia optima used, and it has not disappointed. It gets incredible gas mileage and is great on long drives. There is lots of space in the front and back seats which makes it incredibly comfortable for everyone. I love having the hands free calling feature. It makes it easy to answer the phone and still drive safely.

Colette L on October 12, 2021

Pros and cons of a 2015 optima.

The optima is very stylish both inside and out. It is drives very well and has excellent gas mileage. Ideally, this is not the best car I have had but it is very reliable and comfortable. The stereo systems need to be updated, they have Bluetooth but have the screen of a older model. Nice car, but like I said not my favorite.

Marguerite T on October 12, 2021

Kia optima 2015. Color - blue with grey interior.

Love my optima. It handles well and hugs the road. No problems since purchasing it used in 2017. I travel 50 miles to work four days a week and am extremely comfortable in it. The air conditioning works excellent as well as the heater. I help pick up and drive fellow employees home from and to work when needed.

Tyler Z on October 11, 2021

The downside of the 2015 Kia optima.

Overall the Kia optima is a pretty smooth vehicle. The brakes can be kind of touchy at times and the handling is nothing special. Going over speed bumps does not feel the best either. The acceleration also feels odd at times. Sometimes it feels like you have to floor it to make it up a hill at a decent speed.

Zakkery F on October 12, 2021

2015 Kia optima very affordable and reliable car.

I honestly have had zero problems. I keep up with the maintenance and it runs great. The car gets excellent gas mileage and I feel it is worth every penny. The ability to connect my phone via Bluetooth is awesome. I love my Kia! It has been a very reliable car and me being a bigger guy it sure is comfortable.

Candace Y on October 11, 2021

The drastic drop in value! It's not worth it to buy new. Even if you get a great deal. Does not hold its value!

I love the appearance and all the features. The size is perfect for my size, I feel like I can control it well. Dislikes would be the paint has little chips in it as though there's a defect. It doesn't ride as well as many vehicles. And the value has drastically reduced since I purchased it new in 2015.

Tameka E on October 11, 2021

My honest review of the 2015 Kia optima.

I have not had any problems with my Kia optima. I get excellent gas mileage. The Kia optima is very stylish and have plenty of room inside both the interior and truck. The Kia optima is a very comfortable vehicle to drive for both myself and my husband who is 6’4 in height and weighs over 250 pounds.

Raina M on October 11, 2021

2015 Kia Optima: Sleek, modern, reliable

I like this car because it is very reliable. However, it is not the most comfortable. The seats are very uncomfortable for long distance driving. The radio/ multimedia system is decent and it is nice for the price range and the car looks sleek. The comfort of the seats are my only complaint.

Erin W on October 11, 2021

Love my car but had engine failure.

I bought my 2015 Kia optima with the sport package this past summer. I love the style, the interior, and the panoramic sunroof. However, at only 70,000 miles my engine went out and had to be completely replaced. I'd only had the car for two months. Fortunately, it was still under warranty.

Karen A on October 11, 2021

My personal experience and review towards 2015 Kia optima after 2 years.

I have had my vehicle for about two years now and it has not given me any sort of problem. My vehicle is very reliable and very good on gas which is very essential for me due to having to drive around a lot constantly. I recommend this vehicle to anyone who would ask.

Nicole G on October 12, 2021

Comfort and reliability is very great. I love my 2015 Kia optima.

My car is really great on gas, this is the best car I have ever owned. The comfort in this car is phenomenal and I love the comfort level in the seats. My Kia optima is a very reliable car! I am expecting, so this is great! I have not had any problems so far.

Kathie L on October 11, 2021

Mechanical issues have been constant. I didn't research Kia as I should have

I like the looks of the car. I have had mechanical problems with it. I just bought it 7 months ago, it's a 2015. The brakes needed replaced, a tire problem also. This week it's now making a strange noise I have to take it in again.

Sheila Woodland on October 12, 2021

Overall great car after receiving new engine

Leased my 2015 Optima but within a year the dealer had to install a new motor because my engine had metal shavings in the oil. Had a couple recalls on it. I felt I was given a lemon from the start.

Lonie on October 12, 2021

This car exceeds all of my expectations

I purchased this car with 30,000 miles on it. In terms of power, the engine is a beast. Smooth ride and all the features you would need. Sporty luxury and classy. I love my 2015 Optima SXL Turbo.

Dave on November 28, 2023

That no one seems to know how to fix problems..

I have a problem with my RPM GUAGE. The guage moves and stops at 2 and does not move although going at 60miles p.h.and more..I went to dealerships and local repair shops and no one have a fix..

raechelle brown on October 11, 2021

I hate this car

I have replaced the battery engine and brakes on 2015. I've not finished paying for it and it still isn't running.

Donna C on October 11, 2021

Kia optima warranty is not good if you are buying the car used.

Engine bad car under 30k mileage warranty will not cover cause I bought the car used 2015 Kia optima.

Roy Thornton on June 25, 2022

Runs great

Good gas mileage nice radio and speakers comfortable plenty of room

Lori on January 3, 2022

Engine Failure

Kia engines fail and the company has refused millions repair or replacement despite billions in fines and class action settlements. Buy American!

Shannon Grady on November 1, 2021

Miss

2015 Kia Optima seemed great, until the knock sensor, engine AUX canister went as well as the bearings and the engine is no good.

lisa R on June 25, 2021

Chatting about my vehicle.

Not sure what to say. It get 30 mpg. It drive nice. Had new brakes and rotors put on. It needs new tires and battery soon. It is a reliable car. I put on a lot of miles. It is about 50 miles a day just going to work. I average over 1000 miles a month. Haven't taken the car on many trips. Do not want to drive too far away.

Zach W on June 25, 2021

Beautiful snowy white baby.

I had my eye on the Kia optima from the first time I saw it, I loved the look of it and it was my first brand new car I ever purchased. I have had no problems with it over the last 5 years and have no plans to turn it in for a new car as I’ll ride it till the wheels fall off.

Jessica C on June 24, 2021

Best purchase I have ever made!

I love the Kia optima. It is stylish, fast, dependable, comfy, and fast. I love taking long drives and almost never have any car troubles. Basic oil change and a tire replacement here and there. I have had my car for 2 years and will only leave it to upgrade to a new optima. Great car!

Adriana Z on June 24, 2021

Love this car, fast, comfortable and save money on gas.

It is very comfortable, fast and has all the extras, easy to drive, really helpful with sensors, good sound is well equipped, economic in gas, easy to save money on gas, the turbo makes it super convenient lights are super bright, I love this car have it since 2015 and had no problems with it.

Tanya K on June 21, 2021

Cars very reliable turbo engine great heated and cooling seats great on gas.

My car is very reliable. My car is great on gas mileage. I enjoy that it is a turbo engine it gives me that extra boost when needed. I love the heated seats and the calling of the seas. There is currently one recall on my engine from 2014 to 2018. I would buy another one.

Amanda C on June 19, 2021

Don't underestimate this little car!

Very reliable, but is a little loud inside. The seats are standard, and the features are useful. I drive in areas with lots of snow and my car has never had a problem. It obviously isn't as heavy duty of an engine as larger vehicles so it does have a little trouble uphill, but other than that it drives great and gets amazing gas mileage.

Victoria C on June 18, 2021

I love the Bluetooth, very convenient for hands free!

I have had to replace the starter 3 times and I am always worried I am going to break down. I purchased the car used, but boy I should have looked at another vehicle, I am sure it spends more time in the shop then on the highway. Would have definitely not purchased if I knew it had these issues.

Allyson E on June 16, 2021

Average vehicle for a somewhat elevated price.

I am by no means an automobile expert but my opinion is that this car is just average. It drives well, gets good gas mileage, and has great trunk space. The interior is nice but could have a more updated computer system for the price. After purchasing the car new I have driven it for 50,000 miles and am just now beginning to have issues mechanical and otherwise. Most notably with the air conditioning system. In the future I would be interested in purchasing a car with more interior space, more headspace and foot room.

Khrishunda D on June 11, 2021

The 2015 Kia optima sx t-gdi is a great car, it drives like a dream.

I love my Kia optima, I bought it December 2016 but I liked the 2015 model better and it was the only turbo on the lot at the time. When I first got it I was having a oil leak due to the nuts and bolts on it and they were recalled and the problem was taken care of. Now my engine light is on and I have over a 100,000 miles on it and it cost a $150 just to have them look at it and hadn't been able to have the look at it do not have the money.

Krystal B on June 1, 2021

Great car for the price. Everything you need in a everyday car.

Very reliable, have had for over 6 years never a problem other than flat tire which is BC it had a nail in it. Great on gas and roomy. Great for everyday errands. Power windows, locks. Good for small families everyday car. I love my car and everything about it including the price great for the price.

Regina S on May 26, 2021

The pleasures of owning a Kia optima.

I love my Kia optima! I purchased it in Feb 2017 and it only had 17,000 miles. Other than routine maintenance, I've had no problems with car and I've not had any repairs done. This car is so very easy on gas. It gives a very smooth ride. The seats are very easy to clean. I try to keep the oil changed on time, every 3,000 miles. When the time comes that I have to purchase another vehicle, I will definitely be getting another Kia optima!!

Lauren B on May 25, 2021

My favorite car I have owned: Kia optima.

I absolutely love my Kia. I was looking for a sedan that would be comfortable and spacious enough for myself & two children to ride it frequently (with car seats). This car is very comfortable and it is safety specs are great!! We travel in this vehicle 5 hours one way trip at least once a month with 2 car seats and two adults and it is very comfortable. The only issue I have had since owning the vehicle is an oil leak (that I still need repaired).

Tiffany M on May 25, 2021

Comfy and technologically advanced.

I really like my Kia optima. It is a decent sized vehicle with a bunch of upgrades. The leather seats are nice paired with a heated and cooling seats. You are able to have at least two settings for the driver side. The panoramic sunroof is my favorite aspect. It has decent power on an affordable tank size. I would like more leg space in the back seat, however that is not where I sit so it is not a huge problem.

Michelle U on May 23, 2021

The best part of my car is the leather, heating and cooling seats!

I have had absolutely no issues with my car since I purchased it. The only thing I would change about the car is the height of the passenger side seat. The driver's seat goes up and down to reach the height required for the driver, but the passenger's side seat does not move up and down and therefore makes the seat extremely low, especially for those who are not as tall as some.

Megan B on May 18, 2021

Vehicle is comfortable and reliable.

Eats through brakes, lots of clunks that seem. To come from nowhere, passenger seat on the ground basically and that cannot be fixed. I do feel it is reliable and I am comfortable when riding it in. It is large inside and I have room to nap and my passengers are comfortable.

Hailey C on May 14, 2021

Kia optima sxl turbo is one of the best purchases I have made.

No problems. Very reliable. Drives amazing. Great detail and trim model. Different drive modes. I have owned it for over a year and not had a single issue come up that wasn't routine maintenance. Had one recall check but not needed to replace. 10/10 excellent vehicle.

Mal C on May 13, 2021

I like how quickly it gets up to speed.

Too small and low to the ground. I like it but she’s low. The car is peppy and gets up to speed fast. I like how sporty it feels. Lots of room in the back seat. And plenty of trunk space. I like the car overall and it has not given me any problems, except in the snow.

Rebecca E on May 12, 2021

I get up to 30 miles per gallon and it is perfect for me.

I love my Kia optima it gets great gas mileage it accommodates me very well, and has never let me down. It is exactly what I needed to get back and forth to work and all my daily drives. I have the oil changed every 3 months and have not had any issue with any motor or transmission problems so far.

Joanna B on May 11, 2021

I just love my Kia optima!

My Kia optima has comfortable leather seats that sink down & can comfortably sit for hours! It also has a backup camera and lit up cup holders. This car drives comfortably and safely. The trunk of the car is large enough to fit multiple suitcases, beach chairs, baby carriages etc. I just love my Kia optima!

Heidi C on May 10, 2021

Reliable, low cost, great gas mileage.

Overall a great car but did come later was advised of some recalls and engine runs hotter than other cars. Very reliable with no major breakdowns. Also had issues with power windows which is a big cost to repair. My experience with this car compared to others I owned I would purchase Kia again.

Emily C on May 5, 2021

Efficiency of the vehicle is amazing! Very safe.

I love my vehicle it is drives very nice and has so many important safety features. That have helped me when I was a new driver. My only problems I have ever had is with the windows and I they have gotten stuck down a few times. But it is an easy fix and the company pays for. Mine.

Brooklyn R on May 4, 2021

Spacious car very family friendly!

The Kia optima lx is a great, spacious car that can fit a family of 5 with no problem! Although very roomy, this car make has had a couple recalls with the “computer” of the car where for example the tire pressure is low signs kept appearing but Kia is usually really quick to get right onto the recalls when they realize it is needed. The interior seats are fabric and are very comfortable to sit in during long road trips or just a trip to a store. The seats go back pretty far and are also comfortable enough to sleep in if you ever need too! Gas mileage on the highway is 32/mpg and in the city it is 16/mpg. Very worth it I think for the gas mileage alone this car will save you a lot of money each month on gas especially if you are doing a lot of highway driving to go to and from work. Next thing that I think is the best part of the car too is the trunk! The trunk is so big and has a compartment underneath that is not just for the spare tire which adds even more room to the trunk! Grocery shopping is great with this car because of this amount of trunk space it has. Little features of the car I have found amazing and helpful are: the drivers side has two buttons but bottom of the door that you lift to either pop the gas tank open or the trunk (I have found both so convenient), there is a cooling option for drinks or whatever else you might want to keep cool in the glove department, and the back seats can be lifted down for even more room in the trunk for things such as furniture, giant boxes, TVs and whatever else you may be able to fit into the trunk if need be! Overall I think this Kia make is a car you will not be disappointed in and you can enjoy and save money with it as well!

Marguerite T on May 3, 2021

Kia optima 2015. Color - blue with grey interior.

Karen A on May 3, 2021

My personal experience and review towards 2015 Kia optima after 2 years.

Avery M on May 2, 2021

I overall like my vehicle it is a nice car and it gets me where I need to be!

My vehicle for the most part is very reliable! I have had 2 problems in the summer when it gets to 100+ degrees I will sometimes start my car and it will never cool down even if I leave it on for 20 minutes it stays hot. The other problem was I have taken it in for 5 recalls and I have had it for a little over 2 years. I know that making the proper adjustments are very important but I feel as if they would get everything taken care of when they make the car everything would be easier and better for me.

Sandra R on May 2, 2021

My car is reliable and not money eater.

I have had my Kia optima for five years and I have not had any problems. It does not consume a lot of gas and it does not require much maintainability as other cars. If the car has any issues the dashboard lets me know and I just contact the dealer and they take care of it. I really like my car and would recommend it to anyone looking for a car to use on regular basis.

Lexie M on April 29, 2021

My Kia is amazing and it is gets me where I need to go.

I love my Kia. It is very reliable and gets me to where I need to be in a sturdy fashion. It is roomy and quiet when started. I want a newer model Kia but my 2015 is amazing. I love it. The windows are great. The tires are great. The gear shift is nice.

Delina K on April 26, 2021

Pro easy to drive and lifetime powertrain warranty.

At over a hundred thousand miles my brakes started sticking. Other than that I have no issue with this car mechanically. The seats are a light tan color and stain very easy. The car is easy to drive. I was just offered a free extension on the powertrain on this car.

Ashley B on April 25, 2021

2005 Kia optima loaded with panoramic roof.

Heated steering, heated seats, power steering and windows, panoramic sunroof, keyless entry push start. Plug and play although the feature stopped working. Navigation, I do not like that you have to bring the car in and pay to update the navigation system. Leather seats. Power seat memory. Side view mirror does not hold memory when you switch the seat profile.

Tiffany U on April 23, 2021

Great in gas. Drives well. Performance is amazing. Handles well.

Performs excellent drives excellent and is very reliable. It is very good on gas. It handles curves better than any car I have ever driven. I would absolutely recommend this car. I would definitely buy another Kia optima. I do not regret buying this car.

Kaytlynn W on April 22, 2021

I love my Kia optima and the amount of comfortability and safety I feel in it.

I have owned my car for 4 years, and I have had absolutely not one issue with it. Besides normal wear and tear, haven't had a single issue. I love my car and would definitely purchase a newer model. The seats are extremely comfortable, it is very roomy and kid-friendly.

Karrie B on April 17, 2021

My favorite car. Enjoy and love this car.

I love this vehicle, have had no problems with it. Battery is expensive but that is it. Other than that I love it. It is comforted and s great ride. Heard it is easy to work in and things normally do not go wrong with it it. So far I have had no issues at all or if it.

Ashley L on April 17, 2021

Kia, providing quality cars!

I really enjoy my Kia optima. It has a clean, attractive look to it. There is plenty of room for my family or transporting my dogs. Trunk space is surprisingly large. I think it is a pretty smooth ride overall. I have not yet had any real issues come up that needed addressing, other than normal wear and tear, which is monitored at semi annual checkups. I have had my optima for a little over two years now and have been very satisfied with the quality.

Kierra R on April 14, 2021

Love my Kia optima because why not.

I love my Kia optima. It has a nice look (inside and out). This is a car that gets great gas mileage. And for all the features obtained (moonroof, heated and cooling seats, heated steering wheel and more) it is considerably affordable. Never had any unusual/outstanding issues. Ps: this is my 2nd optima purchased.

Ericka S on April 13, 2021

My opinion on my Kia optima.

Great on gas. Good reliable car. Durable! Transmission fails easily. Car goes fast. Nice leather seats. Great sound from radio speakers. Could have more room in back seats. Trunk is a decent size. Radio light goes in and out. Horn sound is low. Fast car.

Sarah K on April 11, 2021

Kia optima: decent, reliable, affordable.

The car has been reliable, I have not had any issues with it in 5 years. The Kia is comfortable to drive, and it has a large trunk space. Good acceleration and pep. I do not have any upgraded features or tech but would buy another Kia with the upgrades.

Kailei R on April 9, 2021

High seats make you feel on top of the world!

I have had only a few bugs to fix, but the ride is relatively smooth, the cabin is not the quietest but it definitely blocks a lot of outside sounds! It accelerates pretty quickly, not a race car, but gets you safely on the highway better than most people drive sports cars!

Terri S on April 8, 2021

The double sunroof was a nice surprise.

I have had two Kia optima. The first was an optima sxl turbo and I loved it. As my grandson stated so eloquently 'wow! This is definitely not a grandma car.' The second didn't have as many bells and whistles as the sxl turbo. I have come to appreciate the tires that are on the lx model a little more than the ones on the sxl. If you drive in the city the thinner tires are fine. But if you live in a rural area be prepared to have a few flats. I have very few tire problems.

Cheyenne C on April 7, 2021

My optima is dark grey with black interior and tinted windows.

It is amazing on gas mileage. He has plenty of room. It drives very smooth and it is the perfect size vehicle especially for traveling! Easy to clean. Affordable to maintain and keep up. Cheap on maintenance and just an amazing all around family car.

Mary M on April 7, 2021

Best car in Its class for value and comfort.

Love the smoother ride and design of the vehicle. Options for the price can't be beat. Stock kumho tires are the worst. Possible engine recall. Quality has vastly improved. Overall value is good. Comfortable interior. The mpg beats my previous two door vehicle.

Brittany S on April 5, 2021

One of the best foreign dependable car.

The car is a great car. As of now however, the car has a recall on the engine. The engine can and will knock sometimes. It has ecoboost, which I love. It drives smooth and always has been a good highway car. Other than the recall problem I think the Kia optima is a really good car to have.

Fabian A on April 4, 2021

Engine space is amazing, it is a reliable care and gets the job done.

Well the Kia optima has is reliable, I have had it for more than 2 years and it has not given me any problems. I really like how much room they give you to work on the engine. I would have to say the paint job on the car could be better there are a few chips in paint owning the car. The stock speakers are pretty good volume and bass wise. A sunroof would be nice but that is some little nit-picky stuff I would like.

Lauren G on April 3, 2021

Best city car I have ever had.

I love my Kia optima. I am fresh out of college and live in the city. It is the perfect yet sleek little car to get around town. I also have the double sunroof which I just love to bits. The back-up camera has become one of my favorite things. I used to not have one but it is turned into my favorite things. I cannot image parallel parking without it.

Kayla P on April 3, 2021

Nice interiors, very spacious and comfortable, Bluetooth access and great on gas.

I really love this car, I like the interior, the seats are very comfortable. It is also very spacious, I have a baby do it helps that the back seat is very big and a lot of room. I also like the Bluetooth feature, so you can access your phone and listen to whatever music you want, while also having the ability of making phone calls as well so you are not having to be on your phone, which is unsafe.

Nikki G on April 2, 2021

It is very economical and it is not a bad looking ride either.

Very economical. Approximately 40 mpg. Very roomy and comfortable. Insurance is fairly inexpensive and maintenance costs are inexpensive.

Jamila E on April 1, 2021

My Kia is black with special features and it gets me to where I need to go.

I really have not had any problems with my Kia just the engine but it was a recall, so I was able to get a brand new engine put in. It drives real good and I love the features. As long as you keep up the maintenance on the Kia it is a very good and reliable car.

Dagan K on March 30, 2021

Fantastic, affordable car!

My Kia is truly a nice car for the price. I love the gas mileage, and feel of the car. In my opinion the car has a really nice stereo and speaker system. The interior is a nice quality interior that sits five. The car visually looks appealing. I haven't had many problems with this car if any which is amazing, and generally speaking I would recommend this car for people that are looking to buy one.

Vanessa C on March 29, 2021

Overall great affordable car that is easy to maintain.

Drives very smooth, super spacious! Has some pick up and go to it great on gas just a little pricey to fill up.

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.