Used 2012 Kia Optima Consumer Reviews
Used Optima for sale
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.
Excellent Cost / Benefit
seson, 02/24/2012
2012 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
39 of 40 people found this review helpful
Researched and compared to the Malibu, Camry, Accord, Altima, etc., and found this to be the best choice for me. Quiet and smooth ride, stunning looks, good interior materials, Bluetooth, USB, 10/10 drive train, 60/60 bumper to bumper (lifetime drive train from the dealer). With what Kia includes even on the LX AT, I've only added a factory spoiler and window tint. All this for under 20K after rebates..Gas mileage has been 25 around the city and up to 36 on the Hwy. Best of all, it's made here in the USA by American workers in Georgia.
Don't be fooled by the Badge
thorlo, 02/21/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
73 of 77 people found this review helpful
I have owned Dozens of new cars, including,7/ VW's,3/BMW's,3/Audi's,2/Acura's,1/Jag& a M-B. All were special in their own way, But as far as Packaging, performance, style, funtion, and safety rating (NHTSA/IIHS), My 2012 Kia Optima SX, is by far the best car I've ever Owned. it feels as solid as any of them. And on my trip From Texas to Va. I got 33 true MPG, at speeds somewhat above those posted. so a word to the wise car shopper, Don't be fooled by the Badge.
2012 Kia Optima SX
cdh906, 04/02/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
20 of 20 people found this review helpful
I have now had my SX for a little over a month, its a big step up from my '96 Camry. I wanted a fun, reliable car that was comfortable with luxury amenities that could handle my 90 mi round trip commute, yet was fun. I looked at Audi A3 (D), Ford Fusion, Focus, VW Golf (D) and decided the best bang for my buck was the Kia Optima. I got leather, fun, outstanding warranty, great design, all the fancy features I wanted, none of the add ons I didn't want. I paid $29,200 out the door for a white 2012 Kia Optima with Touring and Premium Package (no nav), I talked them down by using email, it helped a lot rather than on the phone or in person, allowed me time to choose words carefully.
Update on Infinity Sound quality
fixer199, 01/31/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
19 of 19 people found this review helpful
I posted in early January about the center dash speakers overpowering the rest. Turns out it was a bad amplifier. Got it replaced today under warranty. Now the Infinity system sounds like something Harmon Kardon can be proud of! We now have 1600 miles on the car and like it more all the time. That amplifier is the only defect we've found. We carefully log our gas use & got 25.06 mpg for the first 1,066 miles of 100% city driving. Only one trip out of town & got 31.9 mpg with lots of hills and slow downs for small towns.
BEST CAR I HAVE EVER OWNED!!!!!
mrcwby, 03/27/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
I am 56 and have owned many a vehicle but i have never, ever, had anyone walk up to me and admire my vehicle on atleast 4 different occasions. I even had one take a picture. I am 6'6" and this car even fits me with the panoramic sunroof. I really enjoy driving this vehicle every day and currently i am getting 30.2 mpg going back and forth to work. Granted it is mainly highway until i reach the city but i did take a jaunt to PA and that was two months ago and i was getting 35.1 mpg. I purchased this vehicle in Oct 11 and i currently have 10k miles on her.
Hands down the BEST car I have ever owned
Beth, 07/25/2018
updated 02/03/2025
2012 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in 2013 when it was a year old and it had 13xxx miles on it. I did exhaustive research before buying and the Optima stood out for safety, satisfaction, price, and options. The styling is what drew me in, it is just an attractive, slightly sporty looking car. And I drive a LOT. I have a weekly commute to work of 450 miles, plus I like to get out on the weekends, so the miles just sort of racked up. In five years, I had one battery change, two tire purchases, and countless regular oil changes. That's it. No really--that is it. I added about 135,000 miles to this car with really zero repairs. Just last week (over five years later), I was hit head on and my sweet Kia was totalled. I am not digging the design changes for the newer (17-18) models, so I am doing exhaustive research again. I'm also considering finding another 2012, it was that great. The features you get for the price are unbeatable, it's zippy to drive, and comfortable for road trips. The trunk is unbelievably huge. Best car ever. Update: I did end up buying the 2017 to replace my totaled one in 2018--same model, even the same color. I don't love it as much as the 2012 but I can tell you, after 2 and a half years it hasn't had any expensive repairs needed either! I've put 76000 miles on it in that time. What is it with these cars? Guess I'll probably buy a third one when the time comes <3 Update #2: Still no issues with my Kia. Update #3, 2022: Still love these cars. Going strong. Update #4, 2023 yep still here! Update: #5: 2025 I finally did sell the 2017 due to leaking oil after almost 7 years and 150,000 miles added. Unfortunately, Kia, the K5 is not the same so I am out. I did try a Sonata from their sister brand and didn't like it, went Subaru this time.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Transmission went out at 60,400 miles!
Tim, 09/09/2015
2012 Kia Optima Hybrid 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
We've have had this car since new, and didn't have any issues until it was out of manufacturers warranty. While driving approximately 55mph the vehicle went into "limp mode" and told us to "pull over and safely exit the vehicle" (this was displayed on the dash). If I tried to put it in drive it would make a very hard jump, and would not accelerate. Upon contacting Kia I was told that there was no road side assistance because our car was out of warranty. So we loaded the vehicle up on my parents flat bed and hauled it to the dealership it was purchased from in Ocala, Fl (we were in Jax, Fl and insurance wouldn't transport it that far). Thank God for the extended warranty! Because after sitting in the dealership for over two weeks while they were "waiting to hear back from Korea, because we've never seen this problem" the car needed a new transmission and new electric motor. If we wouldn't have had the extended warranty I would have set the damn thing on fire because I can't imagine what the cost of that was (our repair bill did not give a price). On top of the transmission and electronic motor going out, the buttons to change the station on the steering wheel do not work properly, and the steering wheel itself is peeling apart. Front air damn fell off going down the road. According to Kia it was because my wife couldn't park, but I think it was never put on properly. Steering wheel makes a clicking noise if you barely turn it while the vehicle is stopped. I'm sure it will break while we're on the highway. Fit and finish are decent but the car does not live up to its price tag or its estimated fuel economy. Our warranty goes out at 100k so at that time we'll trade it in for $1,500 and put that towards a Honda.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Very pleasantly surprised
country6543, 06/22/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
18 of 19 people found this review helpful
My wife totalled her 300C and we looked at new cars for almost 8 months. With the way the economy was I wanted fuel efficient but she wanted sporty and fun to drive. Looked at all the different family cars out there and then drove the optima SX turbo. The features that set the Optima apart was the very roomy back seat for the kids, Great looks and fuel economy. We have around 8,000 miles on the vehicle and still love it. No problems, No noises and she gets raving compliments everywhere she goes. She drives mostly city with a little highway driving. City mpg is about 19-21 but highway mpg is right on the button at 33. I am 6'2" and have no problem with comfort, front or back.
Honda, Toyota, and Nissan-----LOOK OUT!!!
mojonphx, 02/01/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
17 of 18 people found this review helpful
This car is amazing, after dismal repairs on my 2009 Honda Accord EX-L, I gave in on my frustrations and traded in the car for a brand new 2012 Kia Optima EX with Tech and Prem packages. The car is so much nicer than the Accord and a pleasure to drive. I have already put 3k miles on the car in one month because it is so addicting to drive and it turns heads wherever I go and people always ask "That's a KIA?" I highly recommend it and don't pass it by because it is a KIA, the brand has made drastic changes and it definitely shows. My Honda Accord was my third and last Honda and I will not be going back.
Optima Hybrid Great Value all Around
ennui5000, 04/23/2012
2012 Kia Optima Hybrid 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
I chose the KIA Optima Hybrid because these were the hybrids dealers were willing to negotiate lower and KIA offered additional incentives. From what I understood, it was the same system as the Sonata. 2010s KIA seems to be the great deal like their cousins unknown cousins were in the early 2000s. I am learning the car. Mostly, I keep it in cruise control as the EVO best monitors the performance. This works well. If you drive in EVO on your own, their is slight hesitation (why I gave it 4). EVO off and you feel the 200 HP and it moves without hesitation!! Lots of room, quiet, smooth ride, panoramic sunroof has wind shield. Tons of features. Handles well.
Good in some aspects, still lacking in a lot more
orleans44, 03/31/2013
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
29 of 32 people found this review helpful
Traded my '09 TSX for a '12 Optima SX. While there are tons of nice standard features, like the heated and cooled seats, the turbo, the push button start and the panoramic sunroof, it's easy to tell the trade-offs Kia sacrificed to appease the value conscious consumer. If you're a true car person who pays attention to details and spends a decent amount of time in the car, spend a little more and get a car from a manufacturer who figures out the details. The car has great power. It will go when you want it to. The tires are the weak point and you find that out with wet pavement. The mileage is less than what mfr states on the sticker and on the "ave mpg" show in the dash.
WOW!! It is a KIA!!!!
mrvega, 04/19/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
16 of 17 people found this review helpful
Purchased my 2012 SX 3 weeks ago and I am truly amazed. It doesn't feel or look like a KIA. The ride is very smooth yet sporty. Quieter and more stable at speed than my mother's 2009 Camry SE V6 even though the SE V6 feels like it accelerates quicker yet handles and feels better than the Camry. The style is elegant yet sporty (Many people compliment the exterior and interior). Even though it is a 4 cylinder, because of the turbo, it doesnt feel sluggish especially at slower speeds. Gas mileage could be better. It is returning 18-19 City hwy around 28 The style in my opinion looks much better than the Mazda 6, New Camry, Sonata, Accord, Malibu, and more expensive cars.
Very Impressive
bambino3, 03/03/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for just over 3 months. After owning many VWs and Audis, I was in the market for a new Audi when I read reviews on the Optima and decided to at least have a close look and test drive. To be honest, I felt this car looked better overall than the Audi A4. Sleeker lines end to end. I know that's a personal judgment, but that was how I saw it. Next, I looked closely at the interior and features offered in the SX (to me, a turbo charged engine is a necessary performance feature). The interior, while not quite as plush as an Audi A4, was extremely nice. Leather, very stylish dash and trim. Finally, I drove the car and was very impressed with the ride and performance.
Love the car - hate the Infinity NAV
fixer199, 01/07/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
Just bought a new EX with Premium & Tech packages last week. More we drive it, the more we like it -- except for the Infinity audio/NAV. The center channel dash speakers overpower all the others. it's almost like driving a car from the 50's with one dash speaker. I thought I didn't have it adjusted right, but you can't adjust it away and the Kia forums have lots of the same complaint from other owners. You also give up HD radio when you 'upgrade' to the $1400 Tech Package. Don't do it unless you MUST have the backup camera! Harmon Kardon make this system and they should be ashamed! We would buy the car again -- but without the Tech Package.
First LX Manual Review
trusko, 07/04/2012
2012 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6M)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I owned 1997 Acura Integra GS-R for 13 years and it was time to say good buy. With 3 kids and two of them playing hockey I was looking for a car that I can drive to work on daily basis and it can still fit two hockey bags. Optima handling is quite impressive, engine is very responsive. I like driving manual transmission and was quite impressed with Optima's responsiveness. I had to go with LX base since this was the only model that comes with manual. However, car is already loaded with all options I really wanted so no big deal. Gas mileage is pretty good - I am averaging 8.5L/100KM (mixed 50% highway), gets better on highway I could easily get 7L/100km.
Fine car with a couple of odd quirks
scrapalara, 02/24/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
19 of 21 people found this review helpful
600 miles into my 2012 Optima EX w/premium pkg (pano roof, UVO stereo), no NAV. First, I've read several reviews that say they upgraded to the tech pkg to get the backup camera. With the EX premium pkg, the backup camera was included. Car is quiet and responsive. I have a 60-mile daily commute (one way) and running about 69-70 with the cruise am getting about 32 mpg. Expect this to improve as the car breaks in and the weather warms. A head-turner! Trading up from a loaded '05 Sebring convertible, so, to me, road noise is quiet! Handled 8" of Illinois snow with ease and stability. Very pleased so far!
Update -- Better than Expected
fixer199, 11/24/2014
updated 05/25/2016
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
57,000 mi update -- still love the car. Trouble free and still get lots of compliments on how good it looks. 42,000 mile update. This car has been one of the most trouble-free and enjoyable cars we've ever owned. Still don't recommend the Nav unit, but I understand Kia changed it for 2013. OEM Nexen tires are crap! We swapped them for Michellins at 30k. HUGE improvement in handling, quiet, and wet traction. We log our fuel usage and have averaged 25.53 mpg since new. About 80% of that was metro driving. We usually get 30-33 on road trips. Dealer service has been excellent. Had one issue with a burr on the steering gear. My wife didn't even notice it, but the dealer took care of it and provided a loaner. No hassles. Wish I could say the same for my Ford truck dealer.
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
No Spare Tire!!
alanbala, 06/27/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
My wife and I had to purchase a new car, after our less than two year old car was totaled. After ruling out several cars, we decided we really liked the 2013 Kia Optima EX with the Premium Package. We got a really good price considering it is a 2013 model, and as we were settling on the sale, we discovered the car comes with NO SPARE TIRE!!. Instead, you get some kind of hinky tire inflation kit good for one use. We bought the car anyway. Now we have to go out and buy a space saver spare, a jack and a lug wrench. The jack and lug wrench are easy to find. Not so the spare. Chevy started this stupid trend. it's a shame all the other manufacturers are following suit.
Kia Hybrid Premium was a great find
sii, 04/30/2012
2012 Kia Optima Hybrid 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
18 of 20 people found this review helpful
What a find! It's a bettery hybrid than the Camry and had more features for the same price as the Sonata. Lithium Polymer battery provides extra power during hard acceleration. The transition from EV battery mode to engine power was smooth unlike in the Sonata or the reviews. My guess is they tweaked the software. Not as sporty as a smaller car or a Mazda, but much better than other hybrids. Though it's a hybrid, it feels like a normal fully equiped car except for the quietness and good MPG.
The Power to Surprise. This is a Kia?!
dratsu, 05/23/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
with Premium Package. I wasn't this excited about my wife's '07 Infiniti G35x, an incredible car. I expected that to be great. The 7 midsize sedans I tested now should be solid, affordable family cars. I got so much more. 4700 miles, 4 months. First impressions are lasting; still loving it. Unequaled luxury & value - the style, features, and attention to detail are unmatched at this price point. Some cars costing $10K more lack this level of sophistication. How many cars light up for you as you approach, inviting you back? With this amazing car, Kia hasn't just arrived to the midsize sedan competition, it's taken the category by storm. The Power to Surprise, indeed.
3 Weeks In and Loving It
gscott04, 06/21/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I wanted something different. Ever since i saw the new Optima on a dealership lot I was intrigued. Ultimately traded in an old Volvo wagon for a loaded up Optima SX Turbo. I am not disappointed. Really love the looks and all the technology and creature comforts. Can't think of too many things this car doesn't have and for the price it just delivers a boatload of value. You can nitpick if you want... I see others complain about road noise and less than optimum build quality but I don't have an issue. I love this car and would buy it again. I feel like I got an amazing car for the money.
it does'nt get much better
arubin, 01/04/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I have my Optima ex turbo for a week, I already have driven 425 miles, mixed city and highway.The car is solid, quiet and has a very nice combination of ride and handling.Very comfortable seats front and rear, great sound from the Infinity stereo, and very good controls.So far my gas mileage overall mix is 27,28 mpg.I can't say enough how much I love this car.The only negative is the choice of tires ,Nexens are very bad on wet roads.I hope Kia will realize a car as good a the Optima deserves better performing tires.
Ran great for 2 years and now problems
yogi111, 10/31/2014
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
For the most part I love this car. If I keep it at 80 or under on the freeway it can get 31-33 mpg. City mpg around 22. The battery died one month after the warranty expired and my fuel pump just went out...luckily I got it to the shop before I was stranded and it is still under warranty.
6000 mile update
scrapalara, 06/24/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Posted a review shortly after I purchased this EX with Premium (no turbo, no nav). Love this car more every day. Just back from a 3-day road trip; mostly highway miles - averaging 36.3 mpg. Woo hoo! Front driver's seat is SO comfy, love the stereo and a/c and the pano roof. Lost a star for comfort only because the front passenger seat is SO low (I feel like "Kilroy was here" when I ride on the passenger side). Otherwise, loving this car.
Amazing value for the money
mustrockon, 07/22/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
When we were looking for a car in the 30Ks range I have to admit Kia was not on the short list. After talking with two family friends, one with a BMW and another with a Mercedes both purchased within the last 3 years we began to broaden our search. Not only were the repair bills outrageous for even the smallest of fixes, but the features for the "lower priced" models were lacking compared to the Optima. We ended up getting a pearlized white with leather interior and a turbo 2.0 getting 275 horsepower. It has no problem getting up to speed and rides like a dream. Not only is this the best car we have owned for this price, but our family friend with the Mercedes is trading in for an Optima!
Great car for the money hands down
sassy1866, 06/04/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I just bought a 2012 Kia Optima EX Turbo. Spicy Red with Beige interior. Absolutely love it. You can't find any other car with the amount of options at the Kia price. I bought the tubo because the regular 4 seemed noisy. Plus I love the power. Only two complaints I have are the wind noise around the windows when driving on the highway and the passenger seat is too low.
You get what you pay for
giantsfan58, 01/16/2013
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I bought a fully loaded 2012 Optima EX in Feb. 2012. I noticed soon after buying it that the leg room is very tight. My leg was constantly jammed up against the speaker in the driver's door. The seats are sharply molded and hard. The transmission went out at 13,000 miles. Recently, I noticed an issue with the steering. While driving down the freeway, the car would begin drifting right or left. When you go to correct it, there is a "catch" in the electronic steering. If you do a search for this you will see many others have had this problem. The real world MPG is nowhere near what thet advertise. This car has a ton of bells and whistles and is great looking, but buyer beware.
Engine failed in 2nd month - transmission in 3rd
Bob, 08/23/2018
2012 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 2012 Kia Optima LX with 116k miles, after checking the Carfax. There was a recall of certain Optima engines due to metal shavings left during the cleaning process. This VIN was not included in the recall. But after 2 months, the engine blew on my way to work. Kia handled it great, replacing the engine at no cost to me. I drove it 3 more weeks and the transmission blew. Just after my engine blew, I mentioned it to a friend who recalled another person who had the same blown engine with a Kia Optima. He told me that right after the engine was replaced, the transmission went. Now mine does the same exact thing. Right now, I'm waiting to hear back from the dealer after they inspect it, but I don't have a good feeling. Two major issues in 3 months?
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
so far so good
dawoj52, 12/02/2014
2012 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
I got my kia optima 2012 LX used. I thought it would make a great commute car i drive around 80 miles per day to and from work. I currently have 80,000 miles on my kia and so far it has been a joy .I do have some minor problems like the passager and rear windows cant be rolled up or down from the driver control panel ,r/s cigarette lighter does not work,inside temperature gauge quit working ,so i have to take it back to the dealer. The tires on the kia are very cheep and need to be replaced asap upon purchase. MPG is great i drive from Chicago to Indiana all highway miles and i spend no more than $ 55 per week on gas . I get complements on a look of the car all the time !!
Could not beat this value anywhere...
astrol, 05/07/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
My wife's new car is a Satin Metal SX w/tour and tech pkgs. and trimmings. She drove both the 2.4 EX and the 2.0T SX and preferred the latter hands down driving the same exact test route and road irregularities. She didn't feel the need to drive the EX w/Turbo after that. For some reason the SX with the Sport tuned suspension actually feels more refined. The car is very new so no long term data from me as of yet but I cannot imagine getting more for your money than what KIA is now offering with the Optima. The overall level of refinement more than makes up for the few hard plastic bits found in parts of the interior. The 2.0T has amazing torque from 1250rpm with no lag. Yikes! Avg. 28 mpg.
Never buy a Kia...Worst decision ever
Michelle, 03/20/2016
updated 04/10/2017
2012 Kia Optima EX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
12 of 15 people found this review helpful
Kia Optima sucks!! At 55,000 miles engine seized and we were forced to replace it even though there was a warranty but Kia ALWAYS finds a way out of paying as can be seen by the reviews. Now at 90,000 miles car transmission or Turbo is going out so car is now going back into shop. Two weeks ago wire harness broke some how and severe several wires causing the brake system to go out! And if you call a Kia dealer all they will tell you is how great the Optima's are and why they would own them.... I offered to sell him mine on the spot, even told him that since his mechanic replaced motor that car should be perfect right??? There needs to be a mandatory recall o these cars immediately before someone is killed!!!! I want mine gone already!!!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Holy Smokes - This is NOT ur Mother's KIA!
jerryk007, 05/21/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
A bit apprehensive at first! After researching and viewing the Hyundai products i.e. Sonata, Elantra & KIA I became convinced that the KIA was amazing! The value for the $$$ was almost unbelievable. Current incentives also played a roll. But after 10 1/2 years with a Nissan Maxima that served me very well at 101K Miles this cars design and finish compared to the Sonata, Camry, Altima & Honda won hands down. The leather interior is the best in class! I am a huge fan and the creature features are just enough! Also ride is very responsive and pretty damn quiet for its' cost!
Kia Optima 2012 review update
soxfan99, 08/23/2014
updated 02/23/2017
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Wanted to write an updated review on my Kia Optima 2012 EX. As far as the vehicle itself, starting to show wear at 32k miles on the interior and exterior with light use (car is garaged daily). Arm rest is peeling. Carpet on rear deck is discoloring. "Leather" seats are starting to break down. Mileage has not changed or improved still averaging around 23mpg C-H driving. Tires that Kia is equipping the Optima with - horrible. Have the alignment checked (this is a known problem). This Optima has gone out 2 times. So in all not a horrible car, but cheaply made - we are glad it's a lease. We will be turning in and not looking back. Update We traded this car out and got a few hundred toward a new lease of an Accord EX Coupe. The Kia is just not made to last. Due to the Optima being oversold in our area - we needed to go out of the area to make a deal. No dealer within our area even wanted the car. Last advice would be to Lear not buy. If leasing plan on the Nexxen tires not lasting.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Best car ever
turbo25, 01/24/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
The 2012 kia optima is the best ive ever driven after owning a 2007 hyundai elantra which has no power or pick up the kia is the total opposite i love it
update* reaching about 13000 on my 2011 SX
acerava, 03/30/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
so far no problems! I must agree with the road noise though. I never owned a Kia before, but if they just get the wheels/road noise and (my preference, wheel well gap shortened) it would be nearly perfection. On soft pavement its extremly quiet, on rough/normal pavement it really makes me consider buying some better tires and im leasing it :/... Anyway, fuel economy no matter how much i try i cant seem to do 22 city (LA stop go traffic: 15-18 :( but on the dealer paper it states actual milage may be 18 in fine print) but i can definitly do 34+ highway. Overall, not upset everything works well, still get compliments and stares every day Wish the logo changed w the designs! i'll update at 25k.
Love my optima
Patricia, 12/01/2015
2012 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought the car 2012, new. Drives nice, good mpg, a little noisy, trouble shutting trunk. Drivers seat starting to feel springs 4 yrs out. Maintenance, knowing your manual is key to keeping engine &transmission in good shape. 74000 miles to date..no repairs, just maintenance.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Short-Term Review (5k Miles) SX Premium Touring
cura04, 06/02/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Currently owned for 3 months (my last car was an Acura TSX). I researched like hell because I never thought that I would purchase a KIA in the near-future. Overall, I am in love with the vehicle. I mainly purchased the vehicle because of the appeal, features, performance/fuel efficiency, and size (in order of whats important to me). I like to point out the price point- Retail $30,395. No car in the mid-size region offers every option as the optima SX for that price. Of course, pending where you live, incentives and supply/demand will dictate the final price. I couldn't be happier with my purchase and I feel like a million bucks (as I drive down the street knowing what I actually paid for it)
Skeptical on EPA
kbsmith, 01/23/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I have recently come off an Acura TSX, rated lower EPA, while in reality gets much higher than the estimates. My Kia gets around town less than 22mpg and on the highwaqy about 29. Those numbers plummet as soon as you get off the highway to an overall 23. My Acura was 25 and didn't plummet so quickly. This is my only disappointment with the car, but it is a big one. The engine seems to miss as I start out, in the 1400-1800 RPM range. I haven't checked this out at the dealer yet because there are NO loan cars provided---only expensive Enterprise rentals at about $55/day. Acura and other upscale models have spoiled me---you get what you pay for, folks. No doubt here. Great value!
Decent but I have concerns
Mike, 12/15/2021
2012 Kia Optima Hybrid 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I purchased a used 2012 Optima Hybrid late summer of 2013. It had 18k miles on it when purchased. From 2013 through Feb 2018 I had no issue. I only drive about 5k miles a year. In March 2018 I had some sort of electrical issue that affected the radio and rear camera. There was something disconnecting and the radio and rear camera would die and have no power. It would drain the battery and then the car wouldn't start. I had an extended warranty and the warranty covered this issue with only $50 out of pocket. THe dealer told me this would've been a $2500-3000 repair. Fast forward to 2019 and the exact same issue happened. Here I am with a car with only 44k miles on it and I had another $2500-3000 repair. Luckily, the extended warranty was good and I had it repaired again. After repairing, I realized that my warranty was expiring at the end of 2019 and I decided to trade it in for something else. I'm not saying this problem whatever it was would have happened again but I wasn't taking a chance. Each time they repaired it, the repair took close to a week. Luckily I had a rental paid for by the warrant company and wasn't without a vehicle. I liked the ride of the car and comfort but I wouldn't buy it again given the problems I had.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
4000 mile update - Wow!- keep being impressed
fixer199, 03/25/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
After 3 months & 4000 miles we like this car -- and Kia, more and more. As previously posted, the amplifier was replaced under warranty. I complained to Kia, the found the problem, & took care of it. Last week we received a gift card from Kia apologizing that we had experienced a problem with our Kia. Wow!! What a nice experience compared to my dealings with Ford on our other car! We get so many compliments on this car. Love driving it. Really like the 2.4L engine. The only thing we would do differently is not buy the Infinity NAV system. My $150 Garmin is a much better nav, & you give up the HD radio. Controls are frustrating!
Love Love Love
uwololli, 12/08/2012
2012 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I've had this car (used) for nearly 3 months and I'm having a love affair! I drive almost 70 miles round trip a day and I average 36-38 hwy mpg (32 mpg overall). Anyone who says they get lower milage needs to press their "Eco" button and set their cruise control. My neighbor bought an Accord about the same time and while he gets a few more mpg, no one turns their head when he pulls into the parking lot at work. Speaking of work, we get 4 adults into my Optima when we go to lunch and no one complains about room (also can't be said for his Accord).
Blown Motor with just 105,000 miles on it.
David, 07/20/2015
2012 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2012 Optima LX brand new. Kept up with oil changes and used it almost exclusively for commuting on the highway. Without warning the motor started knocking and squealing on the freeway and then died. Had it towed to KIA who said that the engine needs replacement. Since I am 5,000 miles beyond the 100,000 mile warranty they will not cover anything and gave me a quote of about $7,000 to replace the motor. Although I absolutely loved this car, this is unacceptable. It appears that I am not the only person who has experienced blown engines with the Kia Optima. Now I have a car that is only half way paid for and I have to come up with 7k to fix it. I will never buy a Kia again.
My 2012 Kia Optima
kirk700, 12/17/2011
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
9 of 12 people found this review helpful
I've put 4000 miles my Optima, there are a few minor irritations and one let down. 1st the car comes with one smart key. All new cars come with a 2 keys. An additional key is $200.00. 2nd, getting out of the car while its running the car beeps at you like you are doing something morally wrong. 3rd and not so minor, the Nav system is terrible. My 4 year old TomTom that has never been upgraded is much better. Last minor irritation: Can't turn the radio off when the car is in reverse. Now for the let down: the MPG comes no where close to the advertized MPG. Best I've recorded is 28 MPG and that was all Highway. The on-board MPG readout of ave. MPG is 2 to 4 mpg optimistic.
Unquestionably in love with this car!
poolgirl78, 09/23/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
After months of research, and driving my friends and family crazy with car talk, I decided to buy the 2012 Kia Optima EX-Turbo in Snow White Pearl with the Premium package. I've owned this car for 4 months now and taken it on a couple long distance trips; overall I am EXTREMELY happy with my purchase.
Kia has come a long way
molina67, 03/27/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This car is awesome. I admit it was hard wrapping my brain around buying a Kia, but I am sure glad I did. This car is not only sexy it 174 hp when you need them. Only downside I have yet to see 34 mpg as advertised. The highest I've gotten in 5 months and 6000 miles is 31 mpg, still better than my previous car which was the 6 Cylinder Pontiac G8. That only got 24 mpg and only had 254 hp and after 28000 miles I started having engine problems.
Really Fun To Drive
mswhitfield, 08/16/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
2.5mths and almost 3k miles, I am still enjoying my Spicy Red Optima. (Midlife crisis? Maybe) After over 7yrs in a Chevy Equinox, off the showroom floor, that I soon came to loathe, that's an understatement. I had a Lexus in mind, but the SX blew me away. Kia has come a long way from their 'buy one get one free days'.
Extremely Satisfied
bambino3, 10/29/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car new in November 2011 and now have just over 12,000 miles on it. It's been flawless so far. Not a single issue. Averaging 30mpg under all conditions. I can't say that about any of the previous Audi A4's I've owned--which were far more costly when comparing feature for feature. Great performance with the 2.0 turbo, plus excellent fuel economy for a sedan of this size--on regular unleaded.
Reason why it needs 100,000 mile warranty
DEBRA GREEN, 05/31/2017
updated 12/04/2020
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This car I bought new it has needed so many things replaced. Eat tires going on my 4th set and dealership says noting wrong with car don't know why it wears tires so quickly. Yeah warranty is great it's the constant inconvenience of having to take in for repairs. Never will buy or recommend Kia ever. Got rid of this Lemon would never recommend Regal Kia Lakeland FL service dept. either. Reviewed them several time also never got a call from dealership or KIA. Why do they want a review if they never follow up with customers
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Optima EX GTi: 5-year review. 79000 miles
Val, 04/27/2016
updated 11/25/2019
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
(Final update): Traded this car in May 2019 for a Subaru Outback, as we have moved to the mountains and wanted an AWD vehicle. Car was in good condition and fetched a reasonable price at the dealer. Do not have as many options on the Outback and I REALLY MISS the keyless entry/push button start. (The dropdown only gave me the Hybrid option; this is NOT a hybrid Optima). My last review (shown below) still holds. I did have to replace a headlight, a $100+ job due to the way the way the bulbs are accessed. The car remains trouble-free and other than routine maintenance, car washes and the new tires mentioned below, I have invested no $$ in it. It's the go-to car in the family for road trips due to great gas mileage & comfort. I have kept the Sirius/XM subscription which we enjoy on long drives. (Previous review at 61,000 miles) I have a 3-day a week, 120-mile round trip commute. Gas mileage and good handling in snowy IL winters were important to me when I made a decision to purchase this car new in 2012. In all but the coldest conditions, I average 32-35 mpg on my highway drives; 25+ if driving around town. Like others, I love the heated steering wheel and seats, cooled seats in summer and the sunroof. Like others, when I have to take a turn in the passenger seat, I find it annoyingly low. Replaced tires at about 50,000 miles. Had the fuel pump go out (under warranty) at about 27,000 miles. Other than that, no repairs; just routine maintenance and regular oil changes (using synthetic oil - my choice; always use it!) I still love a lot of little things about this car - the keyless entry; the way the lights come on when I walk up to the car, the trunk space, the room for occasional passengers, the stylish looks. Handles just fine in the snow and still looks sharp as new on the outside. The tan leather is too light - shows dirt too easily; wish I would have gotten the darker interior. Overall, very pleased with my loaded Optima.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great Value and fun with a few caveats
willj69, 06/21/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
A really fun car to drive with great looks. Absolutely love the inside and every feature, especially the cooling seats and keyless entry/startup. Disappointed in the paint as I have at least a dozen chips. Any little thing causes a chip or scratch. If this car had AWD, blind spot info, and a hard drive, it would be THE PERFECT CAR. It is pretty damn good as is.