2002 Kia Optima Review
Fuel Economy
18 - 21 mpg
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
The Optima may trail its Japanese competitors when it comes to overall polish, but those seeking a well-equipped "out-of-the-box" sedan will find this Kia appealing.
Pros
Competitive price, solid build quality, loaded with standard features, pleasant highway ride, super warranty.
Cons
Unproven newcomer in a cutthroat market, some low-grade interior materials, ABS isn't available for four-cylinder models.
What's New for 2002
Now in its second year, Kia's midsize sedan gets an upgraded V6 engine. Four-cylinder LX models trade their 14-inch wheels for standard 15s, while SE models get auto on/off headlights and two keyless remotes. The optional Leather Package for the SE now includes a four-way power passenger seat.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
pay less, get less
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 7 | Fun-to-Drive: | 7 | Build Quality: | 4 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 4 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2002 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I have owned this car for 3 years now, and cant wait for the moment I can get out of it! I spend about $1k in repairs a year on this car, and I'm not talking about routine maintenance. Speaking of that, it doesn't like to go more than 3k miles without an oil change. It needs to be babied. Its a comfortable car and a Nice look, but unreliable. Interior components falling apart/peeling/breaking. Wears tires out like no ones business, but thats due to the factory recall of a rusting sub frame! Hard to find someone that knows how to work on it too... Parts are never available and needs to be ordered. All in all, if you want a cheap car, go Hyundai, my brothers car has lasted way longer than mine
Favorite Features
looks way more expensive than it is. clean looking dash, roomy and comfortable seats.
Suggested Improvements
higher quality components, interior and mechanically. paint is ''soft''
Awesome!
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 10 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2002 Kia Optima SE V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
Review
My aunt purchased this car new, and i have always wanted it. I got it and love it. My car has 154,000 miles on it with many more to come. NEVER has left me stranded, the only thing ever replaced is 02 Sensor which is normal to go out after 100,000 on any make or model car.
Favorite Features
I love the unique look. I don't like the newer body style as it looks like any other car, but my 2002 looks awesome. I have the SE pearl white with the leather, chrome, etc. LOVE IT!
Suggested Improvements
Larger Rims, HID Lights (i am ordering for my car) Heated seats. That's about it.
NO regrets
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 8 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2002 Kia Optima SE V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
Review
I bought this car used in '03. It had 27,000 miles on it and was a rental. Before the Kia I had a Mitsubishi Galant. I traded in @ 120,000 miles and 2 transmissions. The KIA is a very well made car, seats are very comfortable, very solid feeling for a mid-size and economical car. Have had no major issues and have 143,000 miles on it now. Even though I did not get the 100,000 mi warranty because I bought it used, no regrets. Would buy another. Think they are well made and a great value. Wish it had a sunroof though!
Favorite Features
Solidity, smooth ride, no random rattles
Suggested Improvements
sunroof standard?
The Car that will surprise you
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 8 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2002 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
Review
Just a note to those thinking of buying this car. I owned my KIA Optima for 4 years. I recently was rear ended by a full size truck traveling 40+ miles per hour, totaling my KIA. I was amazed at how it reacted. The rear completely crumpled leaving the passenger compartment intact. Even the police officer was shocked at how well it handled and that I was able to walk away. This car has been the safest, lowest cost of ownership, and most fun sedan I have owned. I never had any problems with my car, I put on 96,000 miles on it, and tearfully will have to say goodbye to it. I recommend this car to anyone looking. I am going to purchase the new KIA Optima this week. Enjoy!
Favorite Features
Comfortable seats, powerful engine, high end fabrics and electronics. Easy to care for engine.
Suggested Improvements
Fuel door button is in wrong spot. When driving I would frequently press my leg against the door and release the fuel door.
3 out 3 people found this review helpful
2002 Optima
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 7 | Build Quality: | 7 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 7 |
| Fuel Economy: | 6 | Exterior Design: | 7 | ||
Vehicle
2002 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
Review
The car was very reasonably priced. I have had problems with the keyless entry. It was eventually repaired. It took the dealer 3 tries to fix it ... the manual provided by KIA was in error and referenced the wrong part number. The dealer was good and provided a loaner while they figured out the problem. I had attempted to replace a front turn signal ... it is not something easily done by a consumer. The transmission has always slipped ... it has been brought in on multiple occasions and they flash the onboard computer. The problem has never been completely resolved.
Favorite Features
Plenty of trunk space. Comfortable seating. Good power.
Suggested Improvements
Allow consumer easy access to be able to replace front signal and driving lights.
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