2020 Kia Optima
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
Pros & Cons
- 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
- 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
2020 Kia Optima Review
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.
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.
Our verdict
7.8 / 10How does it drive?
8.0Aside 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.
How comfortable is it?
7.5While 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.
How’s the interior?
8.0Front 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.
How’s the tech?
8.0Standard 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.
How’s the storage?
7.5The 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.
How economical is it?
5.5Is it a good value?
7.5Wildcard
8.0Which Optima does Edmunds recommend?
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.
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Kia Optima.
Trending topics in reviews
- warranty
Most helpful consumer reviews
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 a SUV back to a sedan but I thought, you know what let me just check it out and see. I went to my nearest KIA dealer and I test drove a Black 2020 KIA Optima LX/FE (FE is an LX but just means Fuel Efficiency). I was taken back by 1) How big the vehicle is. I am 6'0 and I had so much room in the front and I left my seating position to see how much I had behind me and I fit perfectly in the back and had so much knee room this had more interior room than my CX-5 with the exception of cargo room. 2) The standard features on an LX model is insane Blind spot monitoring, Lane assist, 8 inch display with android auto or apple car play, decent stereo, and auto headlights. very impressive. and finally the ride quality. it rides so smooth absorbs most road imperfections. the only con I found so far is that it is slightly quieter than the CX-5 it is still plenty loud especially on the highway. I found that wind noise can get a little intrusive when you are going speeds higher than 65MPH. With that being said Kia really has don a tremendous job with their vehicles. This is my second Kia Optima. the first being a 2007 Optima LX and this 2020 being my second. Its literally night and day. I enjoyed my 07 Optima but it was a bland car nothing to be proud of. something from point a to point B. But this 2020 Model is just amazing. It looks great really feels like a premium car. the materials are high quality. I am truly happy with my recent purchase and I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a great midsized sedan for a good value.
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 26-27mpg according to the dash info and on the highway, if there are no slowdowns or stops, 40-50mpg.
I owned a 2008 Kia Spectra for 12yrs. Never had any major problems out of it. So I thought I would stick to another Kia I purchased the 2020 Kia Optima. So far I really love it. Maybe because it’s new to me but with the 10yr/100.000 warranty you can’t beat it.
I’ve never had a car that I felt so safe and comfortable driving, while still looking nice.
Features & Specs
| LX 4dr Sedan 2.4L 4cyl 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $23,390 |
| MPG | 25 city / 35 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 185 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| S 4dr Sedan 2.4L 4cyl 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $24,890 |
| MPG | 24 city / 32 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 185 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| SE 4dr Sedan 2.4L 4cyl 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $26,390 |
| MPG | 24 city / 32 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 185 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| EX Premium 4dr Sedan 1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $30,190 |
| MPG | 27 city / 37 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 7-speed automated manual |
| Horsepower | 178 hp @ 5500 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Optima safety features:
- 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 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
| Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 4 / 5 |
| Side Crash Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 5 / 5 |
| Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
| Front Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Back Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Rollover | Rating |
| Rollover | 5 / 5 |
| Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
| Risk Of Rollover | 9.8% |
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Good |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Kia Optima vs. the competition
Kia Optima vs. Hyundai Sonata
The Kia Optima and the Hyundai Sonata are closely related midsize sedans from the same parent company. But the Sonata is fully redesigned for 2020, while the Optima's underlying architecture dates back to 2016. That means the Sonata gets new powertrains and additional features not found on the Optima.
Kia Optima vs. Honda Accord
In our book, the Honda Accord is the best midsize sedan on the market. It's terrifically roomy inside, and both turbocharged engines deliver plenty of punch. We're also huge fans of the Accord's high-quality cabin design and materials. The only true fault we found: The base 1.5-liter engine is thirstier than EPA estimates would have you believe.
Kia Optima vs. Kia Forte
The Kia Forte is one size class smaller than the Optima, but buyers willing to forgo a spacious back seat will find tremendous value in this compact four-door. There's a good mix of creature comforts and advanced driving features on lower trims, while more expensive versions pack a turbocharged engine and ventilated front seats. However, the back seat is tiny by class standards, and the suspension feels quite stiff.
FAQ
Is the Kia Optima a good car?
What's new in the 2020 Kia Optima?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Kia Optima:
- 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
Is the Kia Optima reliable?
Is the 2020 Kia Optima a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2020 Kia Optima?
The least-expensive 2020 Kia Optima is the 2020 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $23,390.
Other versions include:
- LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $23,390
- S 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $24,890
- SE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $26,390
- EX Premium 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) which starts at $30,190
- SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $32,190
- EX 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) which starts at $27,190
What are the different models of Kia Optima?
More about the 2020 Kia Optima
2020 Kia Optima Overview
The 2020 Kia Optima is offered in the following submodels: Optima Sedan. Available styles include LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A), S 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A), SE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A), EX Premium 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM), SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A), and EX 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM).
What do people think of the 2020 Kia Optima?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2020 Kia Optima and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2020 Optima 4.9 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2020 Optima.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2020 Kia Optima and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2020 Optima featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2020 Kia Optima?
2020 Kia Optima EX Premium 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
The 2020 Kia Optima EX Premium 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $31,290. The average price paid for a new 2020 Kia Optima EX Premium 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) is trending $5,190 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,190 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $26,100.
The average savings for the 2020 Kia Optima EX Premium 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) is 16.6% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2020 Kia Optima EX Premium 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Kia Optima S 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
The 2020 Kia Optima S 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $26,485. The average price paid for a new 2020 Kia Optima S 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) is trending $794 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $794 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $25,692.
The average savings for the 2020 Kia Optima S 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) is 3% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 6 2020 Kia Optima S 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
The 2020 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $24,490. The average price paid for a new 2020 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) is trending $4,240 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,240 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $20,250.
The average savings for the 2020 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) is 17.3% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 29 2020 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Kia Optima SE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
The 2020 Kia Optima SE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $28,235. The average price paid for a new 2020 Kia Optima SE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) is trending $4,232 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,232 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $24,003.
The average savings for the 2020 Kia Optima SE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) is 15% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2020 Kia Optima SE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Which 2020 Kia Optimas are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 Kia Optima for sale near. There are currently 289 new 2020 Optimas listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $24,115 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2020 Kia Optima. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $7,650 on a used or CPO 2020 Optima available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2020 Kia Optimas you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Kia Optima for sale - 12 great deals out of 21 listings starting at $25,289.
Find a new Kia for sale - 1 great deals out of 8 listings starting at $24,142.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2020 Kia Optima?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Kia lease specials