Skip to main content

Used 2002 Kia Optima Consumer Reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars
59 reviews
1...

See Edmunds pricing data

Has Your Car's Value Changed?

Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.

Price history graph example

Trending topics in reviews

Pros
Cons
4.38 out of 5 stars

The Car that will surprise you

Aaron, 07/09/2006
2002 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

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!

Report Abuse

2.13 out of 5 stars

Dangerous car

walkstick, 08/13/2005
2002 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful

As soon as I bought this car I started having electrical problems with the car. I would lose all lights, steering, brakes, and air bags for the vehicle. Kia was no help in finding the problem with my vehicle and I totaled the car in July 2005. The only good thing that saved my life was the seat belt installed in the car. There was a burning smell that came from the car and the dealership had a hard time duplicating the problem. They changed many items on my car but they were not sure they had fixed the problem and in some cases were scared to drive the vehicle themselves. Please report your car to the NHTSA if you have this problem so it can be fixed

Report Abuse
4.13 out of 5 stars

Awesome car

PeterM, 07/16/2004
2002 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

had this car for over a year now, love the milage can go forever it seems with the gas light on. the only major problems i've had is the car lurches when i'm breaking sometimes and a sensor went out, had the sensor fixed but haven't had the breaks checked yet. plenty of room in front and back, i'm 6'3 so that says something. don't care for the stock radio, doesn't bring in AM channels well, could get Milwaukee stations in, in MI with my Focus, can't with the Kia

Report Abuse

4.38 out of 5 stars

Great Car

zyllanes, 11/15/2010
2002 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

The Optima is a great car! I've had only minors problems (driver's side window does not open) but overall this car is very durable. Its V6 is powerful on the highway and can get you past other vehicles pretty quickly. It has a sporty feel to it and the steering is precise. The cabin is very spacious, making it comfortable on long road trips. Overall, you can't go wrong with this vehicle. The Kia Optima is a very solid car!

Report Abuse

4.63 out of 5 stars

NO regrets

BOW, 07/25/2008
2002 Kia Optima SE V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

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!

Report Abuse
1...
Items per page:
5