2020 Kia Optima Review

+182

The Kia Optima is a comfortable and stylish midsize sedan that's more generously equipped than most. It does most things well, with nicely shaped seats, a pleasant ride and an intuitive infotainment system. In its top SX trim, the Optima is also quite fun to drive, but that power and fun come at the cost of fuel economy.

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2020 Kia Optima Review

byCameron Rogers^{Manager, News
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).}

Pros

Generous amount of standard equipment
All trims get an impressive level of driver assistance features
Stylish interior with plenty of small-item and cargo storage
Infotainment system is easy to use

Cons

The 1.6T powertrain option is slow to respond and not very smooth
Sloping roofline cuts into rear headroom
2.0T engine is quite thirsty

What's new

Standard forward collision mitigation system now includes pedestrian detection
Slight changes to standard features across the trim lineup
LX's Premium and SX's Limited packages are no longer available
Part of the fourth Optima generation introduced in 2016

Overview

For nearly two decades, the Kia Optima has been the go-to choice for buyers who need an affordable yet accommodating sedan. The 2020 Kia Optima is no different, offering a robust suite of technology features and safety systems at a lower price point than competitors. This year's model shuffles some features and deletes top-trim option packages, but it remains one of the most value-conscious choices in the class.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2020 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio

$148/mo

$181/mo

Avg. Midsize Car

Calculate my fuel costs

Unlike many other midsize sedans, the Optima comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, along with a suite of driving aids that includes a blind-spot monitor. More exotic features such as ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof are available in upper trims, but even modestly priced midtier models pile on luxury items.

There's only one inherent flaw, and it's the downward-sloping roofline that gives the Optima its distinctive shape. It cuts into rear headroom and requires passengers to duck into the back seat. Also, you may face frustrations depending on which powertrain you go for. The base engine is a little slow, while the dual-clutch automatic paired to the 1.6-liter engine is slow to respond and jerky at low speeds. The range-topping 2.0-liter engine, meanwhile, consumes more fuel than similar engines.

Despite these quirks, the 2020 Kia Optima remains one of the stronger choices in the midsize class. However, buyers willing to spend a little more will find vehicles such as the Honda Accord and the Mazda 6 more engaging overall.

What's it like to live with the Optima?

If you'd like to learn more about the Kia Optima of this generation, read about our experiences from a full year of living with a 2016 Kia Optima. We tested the Optima for a full year, diving into the ownership experience for 20,000 miles and covering all the features from cargo space to real-world fuel economy. Notable differences in the 2020 Optima include updates to standard and optional equipment, a refreshed exterior and revised infotainment options. But the 2020 is still in the same generation as the 2016 model we tested, so most of our observations still apply.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Good

7.8

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

8.0/10

How does the Optima drive? From the engine to transmission, the Optima SX's powertrain is fantastic. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is responsive and punchy. Its 6.9-second 0-60 mph run isn't the quickest among midsize sedans with upgraded engines, but it is still plenty quick. The six-speed automatic operates smoothly and delivers good everyday drivability. Be careful not to hit the gas too hard in the middle of a turn because you're bound to get wheelspin.

Aside from the more powerful engine, the SX adds a sport-tuned suspension that lends responsive handling during spirited driving. The brakes have a reassuringly firm feel and braking force builds naturally. There's little steering effort or feedback in Normal mode, while Sport feels a bit artificially heavy.

Comfort

7.5/10

How comfortable is the Optima? As the top trim, the SX comes with a lot of standard luxury amenities. Dual-zone automatic climate control gets the cabin to temperature quickly, and the heated steering wheel is effective, too. The SX also has ventilated front seats, which work decently and are rare for the segment. The front and rear seats are comfortable and supportive.

While most people will be served well by the standard suspension setup, the SX's sport suspension is a little on the stiff side but not a deal-breaker. As in most midsize sedans, wind and road noise is somewhat ever-present but not oppressive.

Interior

8.0/10

How’s the interior? While the Optima's interior design is a bit pedestrian, it's functional and intuitive. The controls are easily accessible, logically placed and simple to use. The 12-way driver's seat has good adjustment in all directions, and four-way lumbar helps drivers dial in the right amount of lower back support.

Front occupants enjoy plenty of legroom and headroom, and the large door openings make entry and exit a cinch. While it certainly gives the Optima a striking profile, the sloping roofline creates a few challenges for rear passengers. Entrants will have to duck into the car, and there's less headroom than in rivals' rear seats. The rising trunklid mildly interferes with rear visibility. Otherwise, there's good visibility throughout.

Technology

8.0/10

How’s the tech? Kia's tech experience is one of the best in the class. Though the touchscreen interface itself is a little dated, graphics are sharp and the system responds with minimal lag. The upgraded Harman Kardon audio system performs better than you might expect it to. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the upper trims offer a plethora of charging solutions.

Standard driving aids include a blind-spot monitor, forward collision warning and more. The adaptive cruise control system works better than many competitors, but you do have to upgrade to the midtier EX trim level to get it.

Storage

7.5/10

How’s the storage? The Kia Optima is competitive with the rest of the class when it comes to everyday utility. The trunk, with 15.9 cubic feet of storage, is just marginally smaller than the class-leading Accord's. The automatic trunk release is a neat idea — just stand behind the bumper for a few seconds and the trunk opens — but we wish it opened all the way instead of just unlatching.

The Optima matches the rest of the class when it comes to small-item storage areas. The storage compartment under the center armrest is deeper than the ones in some rivals, and it has a removable storage bin for small items. Under the front center stack is a hidden storage area that houses the USB and 12-volt connections. There's also a bonus bin just in front of the cupholders.

Fuel Economy

5.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? Fuel economy is where the Optima lags in this class. Its EPA estimate of 24 mpg combined (21 city/30 highway) puts it at least 2 mpg lower than the rest, including competitors with V6 engines. During our real-world testing, fuel economy was even lower — 21.6 mpg on our 115-mile test loop. We typically see results that land between the combined and highway ratings.

Value

7.5/10

Is the Optima a good value? Value is what Kia prides itself on. The warranty is unmatched with five years/60,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage and 10 years/100,000 miles for the powertrain. Kia's roadside assistance for five years/60,000 miles is longer than others. Build quality is similarly laudable, with sturdy interior materials and ample use of higher-quality plastics. Fuel efficiency is the only real weakness — the SX's turbocharged 2.0-liter is a bit thirstier than other uprated engines.

Wildcard

8.0/10

This car owns its identity: It's spunky and affordable, and it has lots of standard tech. There's not much to dislike about the Kia Optima except maybe the slightly pedestrian interior, but even that has appeal — it doesn't look cheap. The SX model isn't a sport sedan, but it packs a punch for a family-friendly four-door.

Which Optima does Edmunds recommend?

While its dual-clutch automatic isn't perfect, the EX's value statement is simply too strong to ignore. Passengers in all five seats are treated to a wealth of upgrades, including heated front seats, rear air vents and leather upholstery. Adaptive cruise control and the auto-dimming rearview mirror make everyday driving easier, too.

2020 Kia Optima models

The 2020 Kia Optima is a midsize sedan sold in four trim levels. The base LX comes standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a ton of advanced safety equipment. The S is a sport-themed version of the LX with slightly different styling and a few additional goodies, while the luxurious EX is packed with extra features and its own unique powertrain. Commendably, Kia has kept the pricing close across these trims. The SX is more expensive, but its powerful turbocharged engine and additional tech and luxury features are enticing.

Under the hood of the entry-level Optima LX is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (185 horsepower, 178 lb-ft of torque) matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. Automatic headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic high-beam control, heated mirrors, height-adjustable front seats (with two-way power lumbar adjustment for the driver), and a 60/40-split rear seat are all standard.

Tech features such as an 8-inch touchscreen and a six-speaker audio system with a USB port, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are offered. Standard advanced safety equipment includes rear parking sensors, lane keeping assist, driver attention monitoring, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and a blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

The S adds 18-inch wheels, foglights, a rear spoiler, dual exhaust tips, keyless entry and ignition, a power driver's seat, a hands-free unlocking trunk, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and cloth and faux leather upholstery. The optional Panoramic Sunroof package equips the S trim with a panoramic sunroof and gloss-black exterior accents.

The EX gets its own powertrain: a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (178 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque) and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It loses the spoiler but receives sound-reducing front door windows, adaptive cruise control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, rear air vents, interior wood accents, leather upholstery, and additional sensors for the forward collision warning system. The EX also brings with it a total of three USB ports (two in front and one in rear), a wireless charging pad, a rear power outlet, and HD and satellite radio.

One package is available on the EX. The Premium package adds four-way power lumbar adjustment for the driver's seat, driver-seat memory functions, a power passenger seat with a two-way lumbar, ventilated front seats, the panoramic sunroof, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel, and a navigation system.

The range-topping SX is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (245 hp, 260 lb-ft) with a six-speed automatic transmission. It is equipped similarly to the EX outfitted with the Premium package. Additional upgrades on the SX include 18-inch wheels, LED headlights and foglights, automatic high-beam control, a rear spoiler, a sport-tuned suspension, red brake calipers, black-painted exterior accents, a flat-bottom steering wheel with wheel-mounted shift paddles, metal interior trim, and a larger driver information display. It also adds a temporary spare tire compared to the tire repair kit on other trims.

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

4/5Excellent

#8 out of 28 among Midsize Cars

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

^{The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Kia Optima from 2008-2022.}

$373/yr

vs. $415/yr
for Average Midsize Car

Frequency

^{The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).}

0.85x/yr

vs. 0.87x/yr
for Average Midsize Car

Severity

^{The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).}

9.4%

vs. 10.2%
for Average Midsize Car

powered by RepairPal ^{Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.}

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 Kia Optima.

5 (67%)

4 (23%)

3 (1%)

2 (3%)

1 (6%)

4.4

51 reviews

Write a vehicle review See all 51 reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

Oh how they have come so far...

Cliff, 12/03/2019

2020 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)

My previous car was a Mazda CX-5 my lease ended and I was looking for a vehicle that was not as harsh on the road as the Mazda and still had the space. I knew that I was not going to get another Mazda because of the ride quality and the I also wanted to get my payments down. So i started my research and saw that the optima had more than exceptional ride quality. I was hesitant to go from …

Way better than Camry

Ronald O, 06/09/2019

2019 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)

This was such a good option. The car practically drives itself on the highway. It’s modern and turns heads. The headlights could be better and I plan on replacing the bulb with LED headlight. The seats are comfy and the car has a nice acceleration. We chose this over the Camry and wouldn’t go back. This is way better and it has better reviews than even a Honda CRV!

Very pleased

AnneL, 01/19/2020

2020 Kia Optima SE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)

I have had my Kia Optima FE(Thanks to an earlier post letting me know that means Fuel Efficient - no one at the dealer knew that) for 6 months now and am quite happy with it. I was driving a 2005 Highlander and was not sure if I would like a sedan, but the quieter and smoother ride have won me over. Apple Car Play is great. I like all the safety features it has. Around town I get …

Optimal comfort

Sarah Graham, 02/02/2019

2019 Kia Optima S 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)

I have owned 2 kia's previously (Optima and Sorento EX), and my daughter has owned 2, (Sportage and Optima). I can say that my recent purchase of the 2019 Kia Optima S is the best by far. A luxury car with an affordable price. It has all the latest tech upgrades and the smoothest ride ever. I got every option I have always wanted in a car for an excellent price....I coudn't be more …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Kia Optima, so we've included reviews for other years of the Optima since its last redesign.

See all 51 reviews of the Kia Optima

Write a vehicle review

2020 Optima Highlights

Trim:

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$23,390
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	29 MPG
Cost to Drive	$148/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	15.9 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Optima models:

LED Headlights with Automatic Leveling: Swivels the headlights to provide illumination around a corner while turning and adjusts the tilt to account for passenger weight.
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist: Automatically applies the brakes if advanced safety systems detect an imminent front collision.
Rear Cross Collision Warning: Sounds an alert if a vehicle is passing or about to pass behind you as you back up.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover5 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover9.8%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2020 Kia Optima Review

2020 Kia Optima Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.

What's it like to live with the Optima?

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which Optima does Edmunds recommend?

2020 Kia Optima models

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

Cost

Frequency

Severity

Most helpful consumer reviews

Oh how they have come so far...

Way better than Camry

Very pleased

Optimal comfort

2020 Optima Highlights

Safety

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Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2020 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.}