2004 Kia Optima Review
Fuel Economy
21 - 23 mpg
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
The Optima trails its Japanese competitors when it comes to overall polish, but those seeking a stylish, well-equipped family sedan for less than $20K will find this Kia appealing.
Pros
Excellent warranty, pleasant highway ride, lots of features for the price.
Cons
Noisy four-cylinder engine, some cheap interior bits, ABS isn't available on four-cylinder models.
What's New for 2004
The Kia Optima receives only minor revisions for the 2004 model year. The grille has been revised, 16-inch wheels are now standard on V6 models and the alloy wheels on the EX (last year's SE) have been redesigned. Finally, an in-glass antenna replaces the old power mast style unit from last year, but only on the EX and the LX with the optional cassette/CD audio system.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
I lOVE THIS CAR
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
Review
This was the first car I have ever picked out for myself and am I ever happy with it. It handles very smoothly and is sooooo comfortable for me....fits me well. I have followed the manufacturers suggestions on care and have not had any problems. It runs great and corners like an expensive sports car. I know, I drive on winding roads regularly. Very fun and inexpensive to own.
Favorite Features
The ability to shift from auto to manual transmission has been a plus for me. Seats are very comfortable.
Suggested Improvements
It could have a bit more headroom. My boyfriend is very long waisted and he has trouble getting in it.
Don't Do It.....
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 7 | Fun-to-Drive: | 7 | Build Quality: | 1 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 7 | Reliability: | 1 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I bought my first Kia in 2004, Optima Lx,4 cyl, numerous problems, radio went out, power steering hose leaked, windshield wiper motor out, timing belt defective, overheating problem not yet fixed, had trouble passing emissions, crank sensor went out(which shuts down motor completely) Will never buy a Kia again.
Favorite Features
Suggested Improvements
Decent Cheap Car
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 7 | Build Quality: | 7 |
| Comfort: | 7 | Interior Design: | 7 | Reliability: | 7 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 7 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I bought this car with 40k miles on it. It now has almost 105k and I haven't had any major problems with it. I have kept up on my maintenance so that probably helps. I just had to have my alignment fixed because my tires kept popping, but that was only $50. If you keep up with the maintenance this car should last you!
Favorite Features
Good gas mileage
Suggested Improvements
Could be more smooth
Should have got a honda
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 6 | Fun-to-Drive: | 4 | Build Quality: | 2 |
| Comfort: | 6 | Interior Design: | 5 | Reliability: | 4 |
| Fuel Economy: | 6 | Exterior Design: | 5 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
Review
Well its been almost 5 yrs and only 34k mi. For the most part the car has been ok, but there is a troubling problem with rust. If you live in a salt state like Ohio, do not buy this car. The 2004 and earlier optima has a bad under body rust problem which includes the sub frame. Things like metal brake disc shields have already rusted off and most hardware like hose clamps and other hardware in the rear are about gone. None of this is covered under their warranty. The drive train may last 10 years, but much of the underneath wont be there.
Favorite Features
It was cheaper
Suggested Improvements
Use better metal
Be careful
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 6 | Build Quality: | 4 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 7 | Reliability: | 5 |
| Fuel Economy: | 6 | Exterior Design: | 7 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I loved the car when I first got it, but I had so many little issues with it. First, I believe i replaced the head lights about 17 times, its OK on gas but now that the Car is 5 I have lots of rust the paint is going on it, the power steering has given me so many problems, and to get it replaced the cost is unreasonable for a vehicle that is suppose to be a good investment for your money... You pay for it in the end. I am looking for another car.
Favorite Features
the front of the car looks nice i like the fact the front hood is air pressured and stays up alone
Suggested Improvements
The electric work the cheap paint, and the belts that are used are terrible.
View Pricing for Other Years
- 2009 Kia Optima
- 2008 Kia Optima
- 2007 Kia Optima
- 2006 Kia Optima
- 2005 Kia Optima
- 2004 Kia Optima
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