Used 2016 Kia Optima Consumer Reviews
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Surprising and great
NapaOpti, 06/25/2016
updated 07/19/2018
2016 Kia Optima SXL Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
80 of 82 people found this review helpful
Like many people I doubted the Kia brand of vehicles just from historical knowledge. However after doing several weeks of research into mid size sedans the Optima kept near the top. I went and test drove Accords, Mazda 6, Audi A4, Fusion, Sonata, and Acura TLX. I own a 2010 Acura TSX commuter car that I like but is getting old. I found that each of these brands has some comfort or convenience issue I couldn't live with. The Kia Optima had the best balance of price, performance, convenience and great technology. Fit and finish are spot on for this class, no problems at all. Every car I have ever purchased I seem to always have to compromise and just get used to. The Optima is enjoyable right from the start and I always look forward to driving it. Sometimes hate to stop! Very glad I expanded my horizons while shopping. July 2018- still rides nice and a joy to drive. Getting 28.7 mpg avg 50% highway, 50% city . Maintenance has been far less than my other cars such as Acura, NIssan, Toyota by 30-40% Over 50,000 mi in 2 years.
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STILL LOVE IT! Safety features sold us
akley, 07/23/2016
updated 01/24/2017
2016 Kia Optima SXL Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
29 of 30 people found this review helpful
**Update--8000 miles and still would buy again. Two long road trips and daily to work. This car is so comfortable and useful. It has amenities for both front and rear passengers. Drives smooth as a top and has the pick up when you need it. There is nothing we don't like. Nothing. To date, there is nothing we would add. It has it all!! Safety features have been useful and come into play every time we drive the car--lane change notifications, camera to park and reverse, we love them! * Previous review, bought new, 240 miles on it.>>Auto hold braking, lane change warning, full body cameras, auto cruise follow distance and braking features are amazing and useful. The luxury items of seat air/heat, leather and electric EVERYTHING are icing on the cake. Stereo is like a theater. Very VERY roomy, front and back. Sunroof extends the entire top of car. Rides SMOOTH and quiet. Can't say enough good. Price tag was high, at least for us, but the car is certainly proving itself.
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2016 Kia Optima for sale near you
Showing 3 of 52 listings
- SXL Turbo SedanMSRP: $10,96613 mi away
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OVER 700 MILES DURING FIRST WEEK OF OWNERSHIP
JWalt, 02/04/2017
2016 Kia Optima SXL Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
34 of 36 people found this review helpful
One week may seen too early for a review, but I've driven my Optima SXL over 700 miles the first week (that's average for me) and think I have a good sense of the car. If you don't like long reviews, know I REALLY like this vehicle and find new reasons why I like (bordering on love) this vehicle! I can't, and won't try going over all the systems and surprises I've found (too many). So, I'm 6'3, and 235 lbs. Previously I owned a VW Passat TDI SE w/sunroof and Nav (part of the VW buy back program). I purchased that vehicle because it had ample legroom for me (including my left leg extended) and it had excellent mpg (avg 40 mpg with an approx elevation change of 3k ft through mountains). On the downside, it didn't offer much for amenities. I wanted a vehicle that would make my 75 minute each way commute comfortable, and fun. Gas milage was important, but I was willing to lower my expectations there for the right mixture of features, comfort, cost, and reliability. I looked at a ton of vehicles before going with the Avalon (Avalon Limited, Avalon Hybrid, Lincoln, Fusion, Camry, Accord - all higher trim models). The Lincoln/Fusion (basically same vehicle), Camry and Accord didn't have the legroom I needed. The Avalon had the legroom, but the tilt steering didn't have much range and it felt like it was in my lap (though I was willing to ignore that before I found the Optima). The Camry had a "bland" feel inside, and the Accord just seemed too childlike for me. The only Avalon that had the features I wanted was the Limited (most of the features). Good price, but I really didn't want to go over 30-32k for my vehicle. I looked at the Optima due to its reviews. Honestly, I wasn't expecting I'd like the Optima. I just wanted to check all my options before I purchased the Avalon. My wife thought I was playing when we pulled into the Kia dealership; "KIA?!?! ARE YOU SERIOUS?!?!?!" Yea, I kind of felt the same way going in to the dealership. Everything I knew about Kia did not inspire images of well made vehicles. Well, I was wrong. Reviews and research support the 2016 is an excellent vehicle. I walked up to the white SXL vehicle, with chrome rims and opened the door to the white nappa leather and thought, "WOW!" Pictures don't do this vehicle justice. The interior looks great, and everything feels great. I saw a review stating the seats feel less comfortable on long trips. Well, I spend almost 3 hours a day in those seats and they're very comfortable. The audio system sounds great also. And, it operates equally well. I do wish there was a knob of sorts near the gear shift to navigate the system; The screen is a little reach with the seat pushed back. A minor, but "cool" thing: the LED interior lights look great at night against the white leather. Bottom line - the vehicle looks GREAT and, it has everything I could think of as an option. How does the SXL drive? As good as it looks. Smooth, quiet ride with excellent get up and go when I need it. I'm averaging 29 mpg overall. Not great coming from 40 mpg, but I think I can get that to 30-31 mpg. I did look at the Optimus Hybrid, but it didn't have all the features of the SXL. Also, it just didn't look as good as the SXL. Steering in the SXL is also excellent. I have noticed when taking curves through the mountains, the steering doesn't inspire control. I felt..., disconnected from the road. But, I also noticed switching to sport mode in those situations elevates the problem. The only thing I'm having difficulty adjusting to with the Optima is the name plate: Kia. But, that's fast becoming a non-issue! I purchased my SXL for $29,500 (USAA TrueCar) price the dealer honored. I'm beyond happy with this purchase.
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Refined Evolution
BillyB, 05/13/2016
2016 Kia Optima SXL Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
34 of 36 people found this review helpful
I leased a 2013 Optima SXL and LOVED the car !! My lease expired and I got another SXL 2016 and WOW has this car evolved in three years not to mention how refined its become. The cabin is incredibly quiet, even on concrete highways at highway speed. The handling is SO much better than 2013 model, very refined with just the right feedback. The technology is amazing and if you are a techie, you will enjoy it all the more. SO happy with this car, I can't stop thinking about it.....LOVE IT !!
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KIA Out Does Themselves Again - Update
Tom Gage, 07/03/2016
updated 07/28/2017
2016 Kia Optima SXL Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
20 of 21 people found this review helpful
If upgrading to the Harmon Kardon stereo system, you sacrifice a CD player. The sacrifice is worth it. You can use a personal Apple IPhone, Apple or other brand Ipad as well as an MP3 to play your recorded music with the USB cord. Other than this perhaps negative for some buyers, it is a delightful ride with all the top safety features and luxurious features of the finest cars offered by all top auto manufacturers and surpassing them. It should be noted that this is my second newly purchased KIA. The previously owned 2010 KIA Forte LX accumulated over 195,000 miles with only normally scheduled maintenance. BRAVO! I expect no less than the attainment of this achievement for my 2016 KIA Optima SXL Turbo when combined with the past exceptional KIA service. The Kia Optima has acquired another ten thousand plus miles on it and I am just as pleased as in the initial review of ownership. In three thousand the dealership pointed out that the front tires will require replacement; the softer rubber of the Michelins wear faster than normal and Kia will no longer use these tires. Two minor recalls were repaired last week, the transmission paused when removing the foot from the accelerator pedal and the track of the moon roof required lubricating. Total cost for maintenance to this date has been $39.00 for an oil change.
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Wish We Had Bought Two
Lisa Williams, 12/23/2016
2016 Kia Optima LX Turbo 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
Both adult sons are 6'2" and EASILY fit in the back seat, both with head room and leg room. Extremely roomy and deceptively big trunk. Great visibility, turn ratio, and low noise.
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Two Weeks & just filling up the gas tank
NoLa, 08/16/2016
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
24 of 26 people found this review helpful
I brought my new 2016 Kia Optima LX two weeks ago for a good deal 16k. The ride is quiet and comfortable. I suggest drive in eco mode to save money at the gas pump. I'm average just about what is advertised. Also the car has a lot of sex appeal grown up/sporty look. I would highly suggest anyone to give kia a chance!
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Unbelievably frustrated
Lucy Oldham, 09/25/2017
2016 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
23 of 25 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 2016 KIA Optima EX. Initially, I was very pleased with the car but the mechanical issues have changed my opinion. The car proved unreliable as the engine stalled multiple times and at times would not accelerate. The car's operation was dangerous having stalled while doing 70 mph on the interstate! I took the car in for service on 4 occasions, each time assured that "the problem is taken care of". The last time it stalled, I had it towed to the dealership and told them I thought the car was a lemon, I was scared to drive it and I wanted to trade it. So, I did for a 2017 Optima EX. It now has 22,000 miles on it and the same thing has started with the new vehicle!!!!!!!!!!!!! I called the same dealership today and spoke to the service department and was told once again "we have never heard anything like this". I said that is not true, you heard it from me about 7 or 8 months ago! So, here I go again...
Great car so far
Roger, 03/07/2016
2016 Kia Optima LX Turbo 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
17 of 19 people found this review helpful
KIA made an error when they made the 1.6L turbo engine... They paired it to a 7 speed duel clutch transmission that made it faster than their 2.0L turbo.... Makes zero sense but it sure is fun!
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After 1 day, nearly perfect
Scott, 09/21/2016
2016 Kia Optima SXL Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
14 of 16 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Optima SXL last night. I feel like I stole it. With the $2500 rebate, I paid under 29k for the car. Yes, you read that correctly, UNDER $29k. Thanks to a GM who honored a price shown on his website that the salesman claimed was a mistake.. But after I contacted the GM telling him that the salesman told me the online price from another dealer is always a lie, then when their price was $10 less, I called them out on it.. and so they basically had to eat their own words, or practice a bait and switch on pricing as they accused another dealer of doing. That turned out to be my gain! The tech on this car is incredible. I ding the car a little because for some reason there is no Homelink garage opener in this car. I will have to decide if I want to keep a transmitter in the car, or opt to pay for dealer installed option review mirror with Homelink. There is a little bit of turbo lag, but other than that, the car is very quick. Steering is a little softer than I am used to, as I am coming from and Acura. Acura's typically have very tight steering. All of the feature on this car are awesome.. Huge sunroof, heated steering wheel, ventilated seats, and all of the accident mitigation built in is awesome. This car feels very high end and very expensive. I am surprised this is a KIA. I didn't think I would EVER own one, but here I am. Even the 10-spoke chrome wheels look almost identical to that on the Jaguar XJ. The attention to detail is great. Little bits of chrome in all of the right places.. illuminated outside door handles when you approach, and red painted calipers. I am still shocked that I bought a KIA and even more so to say after 1 day, that I LOVE my KIA. I'll do another review after I have had the car for a few weeks.
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Kia Heaven!
Amber Abshire, 06/05/2017
2016 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I had honestly never considered a Kia before. I had a Scion XB for 8 years that I loved but was hoping to find a more "grown up" car. I started asking people I knew who had purchased new Kias what they thought and 100% said they'd buy a Kia again when they looked for a new car. I thought I'd just get an LX because I could buy it outright, until I drove the EX. It was so comfortable and beautiful and had literally more interior features than I had on the Lexus LS I had years ago. The sunroof is amazing, all of the dash instruments are easy to use and in logical places and easy to get to. My last car it was impossible to have a window open or cracked on the freeway without it making this horrible wobbling wind sound, this doesn't do that. I adore the heated seats and Sterling wheel and the tushy cooler is AWESOME. I also love that it knows I'm close and opens the mirrors and unlocks when I touch the handle. I have only one complaint so far after having this 7 months, if it's been raining and I open the trunk, the way it's designed allows the water to run off into the trunk when I open it which I find odd. For the price and warranty I honestly can't imagine a better car, my sister bought something the same year and paid way more and it has less features!
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Lyft Driver: Im on the road 24/7
Kamran. S, 10/06/2016
2016 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
15 of 18 people found this review helpful
So I traded in my baby a 14' Chevy Camaro for this 16' Optima EX ( New Horizon Blue color) 2.4 liter 4-cyl. I simply needed 4 doors to drive for Lyft Full time. So far I have had this car for about 3 weeks I purchased the car with 150 miles on it and now have around 2500 miles on it already :/ This was my first "Brand new" car. What I like about this car is the styling Im 28 years old and I dont feel like grandpa pulling up to an event or to someones house. I get daily compliments on the car from the ladies they love the sporty high-end look and the light colored leather interior feels like a benz/beamer on the inside. I spend alot of time in this car Gas mileage is ok I get right about what the car is rated to get. I was not getting as great gas mileage and power until I switched from 87 to 89 octane gas... I know every one says it doesn't make a difference well that may be true for you. I am a Car guy and I can definitely tell the difference, and trust me its not placebo. The 2.4 at first drive did seem a bit sluggish compared to the Accord and the Legacy the other 2 cars I was comparing. But throw it in sport mode but keep in in Drive dont use the sport shift/manual mode it really doesnt help actually makes the car slower from gears 1-3. The only time I felt a benefit was when I drove up Mount Lemmon in Arizona (steep hills/Winding roads) Thats when having control of my shifts really helped but other than that stick to Full Auto/ Drive. I picked the optima because of the obvious Warranty benefit. Also they have some really good service I called to set up my road side which I recommend you do when you buy the car to prepair incase of assistance you dont have to spend 30 mins giving your personal info as your stranded. My only hope or Con was that I wish Kia gave this optima some more hp and low end torque without having to drop 30+ grand to go with a SX-L. And also after driving lirterally all day the seats feel very uncomfortable. And im an average body type I am 5'11 Athletic and about 180 pounds.
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It's a whole lot of car for the price
Shawn, 07/09/2018
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
It has the look and feel of German engineering, but the price and reliability of Asian technology. I bought this car after extensive research, because of it's beauty, driver mode control and shifting capability. It's not often discussed, but the Optima has 3 modes which the driver controls with the push of a button. Economy, normal and sport mode. This is extremely important to me because the car suits the mood I'm in at the moment and responds in kind. For example, if I need the power, sport mode gives an immediate throttle response with high RPM's; I can suck all the horsepower it can give. If I'm mellow and want a smooth ride while saving on gas, I switch to "eco" mode. There are a lot of positive comments I have about this car, but know this: it's a big and fairly heavy car, so don't expect it to handle like a BMW.
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More that I bargained for.
Reggie Moore, 12/04/2016
2016 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This car is my first buy in 18 years and I love the value technology fuel economy warranty and dealership experience. The reviews by reputable auto evaluators (i.e. Edmunds) have been spot on. I would gladly recommend trying out the Kia Optima experience.
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Mama mia - I love my KIA
Joe Panozzo, 06/08/2016
2016 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
We bought our KIA LE s fairly loaded - Leather seats, moon roof etc., Plus so many on line criticisms, but not so much by owners, so I thought there might be some issues down the line. We got a great deal and the buying experience was just about perfect. And after almost three years it has performed flawlessly. Only one trip to the dealer, and that was a great experience. I really like to lay back in the leather seats and look out the panoramic sun/moon roof at night.
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So far, so good
Michael, 07/05/2016
updated 07/23/2018
2016 Kia Optima SX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
Really enjoying the car so far. The tech (radio/navigation/phone integration/etc) are excellent. Highwat MPG was better than listed on our trip. Surprisingly good acceleration.
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34,000 Still running perfectly...
wflansburg@gmail.com, 08/29/2017
updated 09/07/2021
2016 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
New battery installed at 32,000. At the same time I had two led road lamps installed behind the grill that greatly helps with the dead zones on either side of front projection beams! They are adjustable 7 different ways for fog, poor lighting, etc. Otherwise...the 2.4 engine runs perfectly! One last thing...on one of the front headlight housings there seems to be an engineering flaw that allows moisture behind the clear plastic cover. It has been replaced once about 2 years ago...and I plan on having it replaced again just prior to my bumper to bumper 5 year/50000 mile warranty goes out. 28,000 miles in about 4 years...it's our go to road car! We just switched to Mobil 1 5w30 to ensure that our warranty on the drive train will be honored without question...especially since we don't drive this vehicle much. (Kia just issued a long and drawn out letter warning all of us owners to go by maintenance guidelines and keep good records). In town mileage is not great, but on the road much better...even if I'm (safely) driving at higher speeds (wink, wink). This car likes to go...period. It's still comfortable and spacious...inside or in the trunk. No squeaks or leaks...just driveability. What more can you ask for?
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It's a WINNER
Jeff Hnatiak, 09/05/2017
updated 03/17/2025
2016 Kia Optima SX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
50,000 miles and still going strong with no issues or major repairs.
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LOVE IT!!! :)
Layla H, 08/16/2017
2016 Kia Optima SXL Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I have had my Optima SXL Turbo for almost 8 months now, and I don't have any complaints at all. I absolutely love it... has so many features and I just love love love the way it drives and handles... amazing! The turbo lag can be a little inconsistent when you aren't used to the car, but now that I know how it responds and when, it's great. If you told me a few years back that I would be buying a Kia, you would be making a mistake. However, I loved the new design of the SXL and how sharp it looked so I went for a few test drives and little did I know, I didn't want any other car. Believe it or not, I have had so many friends who laughed at me at first, ask me if they can drive it, and have nothing bad to say when they get done. I'm so glad I got this car, and I think it would be very hard for me to ever purchase anything else.
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Really Good Car
Bob, 05/15/2017
updated 02/24/2025
2016 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Replaced a 10 yr old Hyundai Sonata GLS with the Optima EX. Love the car, very comfortable, seats are wonderful I'm 6'1", 165 and have no issues at all with the front seats. Quite, nice controlled, handling ride(not a sport sedan) but confident feeling. Performance is good in Sport mode and mileage averaging 29+ in suburban, country driving. Opted for the lane departure, cross traffic,etc. safety feature and am glad I did. If the Kia is as reliable and trouble free as the Sonata was(only 2 trips to the dealer in 10 yrs., did all service myself) I will be extremely happy. So far a really great car for my needs. Wife loves it also and that's a plus!! Spent several months test driving the various cars in this class and lots of research and the Kia Ex was the best of the bunch by a wide margin. Give it a drive and be surprised. Now it's 2 years since I purchased my Optima and I still think I made the best choice. Really love this car, haven't been able to take some of the longs trips I had planned as wife health has been failing. This is a wonderful automobile!!! Now three years old and still very happy with the Optima. Gas mileage is very good for a car this size, ave. MPG has been between 28 to 35 . No problems so far. 56000 miles and still happy with my Optima and still getting very good MPG for a car this size.
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Great Value
Steven j Weil, 08/13/2018
2016 Kia Optima SXL Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
From the beginning i encountered minor problems. Some factory warranty problems and did not like getting only one FOB key. Yet that's more of a dealer issue. I drove the car 18000 miles and overall it was satisfying experience. Number one feature is the good looks and the scarcity of this SXL model. Coming from a Mercedes my son and all my friends thought i was insane to trade for a Kia. Consumer reports review was very helpful. The Turbo 2.0 was very quick as well as good on gas. The interior was well appointed including red leather seats. Enjoyed a full sunroof, large trunk and an excellent sound system. The safety features were incredible which were found on only more expensive models. The blind spot sensor saved me from potential accidents. The best safety feature was the cross rear cross traffic alert. The back up camera chimed when a car was approaching from 100 feet each way! Based on the fact that I paid $26,000 for one old car with 11,000 miles on it it was worth fixing the few minor items that were not covered by warning. Especially since i got it with virtually no money down! This rates as a great buy in a used car!
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Love my KIA
Fireshaw, 06/02/2016
2016 Kia Optima SXL Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
Awesome package deal with sporty looks, luxury interior, good fuel economy and still practical.
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Love it! But tall people beware
Donna Hart, 03/04/2016
2016 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
13 of 18 people found this review helpful
The front seats are padded and comfortable, but the bottom is not long enough to support your entire leg if you're tall (I'm 5'8")
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love my new car.......BUT
hope robinson, 08/12/2016
updated 02/14/2018
2016 Kia Optima SXL Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I still love my car. It is very comfortable and stylish looking. Since my first review I have had a problem with my battery draining for no reason. The technicians cannot seem to find the problem. This has happened four times already. I have since researched this problem and it has happened to many people both with new cars and used. The ones who have bought used are stuck with the bills. Mine is still under warranty now but if it continues I will have to trade this in.
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Great Car
Someone who hates car buying, 07/15/2019
2016 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Wish it was AWD but ran great and have never had an issue.
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2016 Kia Optima SX Launch Edition
Micky, 03/05/2020
2016 Kia Optima SX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
After everything I looked up about this vehicle I could not be happier with my choice. I absolutely love everything about this car in and finding out new features every day that I did not know it had which make me love this car more and more! If you’re interested in getting a Kia optima then definitely try to get your hands on the launch edition it is truly an amazing car for the price!
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Never buy a KIA - Engines are trash
Ron, 01/12/2022
2016 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
If you are buying a used Kia, make sure you are ready to replace the engine. Buying new, be prepared to be denied warranty work to replace your engine. DO NOT BUY A KIA. The warranty is trash. Their engines are trash. Kia support and their policies are trash. Google Kia engine recalls. I have a 2016 Optima I purchased new. By 70k miles I noticed that there was a lot of oil missing between oil changes. By 80k I knew there was something seriously wrong and had Kia do an oil consumption test. They confirmed it is burning 3 quarts between oil changes. That is over 1/2 a quart every 1k miles. Kia states this is within normal operating parameters! WTF. the car only holds 5.1 quarts and is burning 60% of its oil between recommended oil changes and they claim that is normal. Stay away from Kia. I will never buy another Kia again.
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My Jalopy!
Ruthi, 08/21/2016
updated 10/03/2018
2016 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
10 of 15 people found this review helpful
I bought this car after owning a Chev Aveo that was bare bones. I did have AC put in the Aveo. The first time I sat in an Optima, I was in LOVE!!! And driving one... Oh YES!!! MyFuel economy has been amazing. Much better then my Aveo was. and holds the roads. I travel across country about 3-4 times a year. The Optima has made this trip amazing! I havent figured out all the technological things yet, so I rated them ok or N/A. All I can say is this is the most comfortable amazing car I have ever been in. I stopped speeding because I dont want to get out of this car....
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Economical, yet Very Sporty Ride
Larry K, 10/31/2017
2016 Kia Optima LX Turbo 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
6 of 9 people found this review helpful
First of all, this was the Engine/Transmission combo I wanted. While driving in the Standard or Eco mode can be rather dull, I ONLY drive in SPORT mode. I like the way it shifts, both up and down, as I've always used the auto/manual mode for downshifting. It has proven to be responsive and reliable after 16 months and 2 road trips of 3, 000+ miles. I had no problem exceeding 100 mph over the mountains of Tennessee and the hills of Kentucky and Ohio. The 1.6T is very adequate and surprised me with no less than 34 mpg on both trips. The Tech Package (now its the Convenience Pkg) was an excellent choice. The cabin was very quiet at high speeds, thanks to the thicker windows. The seat positions were also very comfy on long drives, thanks in part to the 12-way power seat. The added lumbar function allowed me to manipulate it to mimic a "shiatsu" massage. If you enjoy a SPORTY RIDE without lots of frills, this car deserves a test drive. If SPORTY doesn't appeal to you, opt for the 2.4 paired with the 6-speed trans, a wonderful alternative, though not as exciting.
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2016 Kia Optima, Brurns Oil at 55000 miles.
Abbie, 04/27/2018
updated 11/01/2021
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car rides and drives like a 70k luxury car. Very roomy. Eye catching style! I get complements everywhere I go. HOWEVER, it burns oil, engine knocks. I go through a quart of oil every 1000 miles.yep you heard me. A 55,000 mile well maintained car that burns oil.
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My 2016 Kia Optima
Tiffinie, 12/28/2020
2016 Kia Optima SXL Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We love our car. Luxury and sport for a good value. We haven’t had any significant issues with our car thus far. Could have a little more insulation against road noise.
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Affordable and comfortable
Luis, 07/18/2020
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
It is very roomy. Runs very well. Had no major issues in 4 years. Only simple maintenance of oil change n tire rotation. Love the warranty on my Kia.
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Cheap
Jess, 05/24/2024
2016 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car was great, but I know longer love my car due to one key manufacturing defect that ruins the entire experience. Eventually, on all cars, the window motors will go out, and the window will fall down. There is no way to jerry-rig these windows to stay up. You're either SOL or you have to pay an arm and leg to have the entire door panel replaced. Unfortunately for me, both my rear windows went out within a 2 month span of time. Predatory design choices like these should never be tolerated.
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Antenna
T, 05/31/2019
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
The antenna on my 2016 optima broke off in slightly high winds. Kia, Tom - program manager and others would not stand behind the kia brand/product. I would not trust Kia product nor warranty unless you plan on keeping the car in your garage and never driving it on a windy day. A simple antenna cover and repair cost $365.82!!! What good was the factory warranty?
the optimal optima !
ernest biddle, 04/06/2016
2016 Kia Optima SXL Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 8 people found this review helpful
balance of performance ,handling and comfort.........just about perfect!
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Rented one for a week
Al D, 07/30/2017
2016 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
5 of 8 people found this review helpful
I rented one for a week. I've got long legs. The console has a sharp edge that rubs against my right shin. The ride and handling are fairly good, but the engine and 6AT are not a good match. Smooth acceleration not easy, especially in sport mode. In regular and eco modes, the tranny is reluctant to downshift, so you have to force it a little and that makes the car lurch a bit. The tendency to want to hang around 1300 RPM when you want it to downshift makes the engine a little buzzy and noisy in that range. The brakes are a bit touchy for me, but work well. I was glad to get back to my Camry SE after a week in it. The Camry 4-banger is quieter and torquier in the lower RPM. The Camry drivetrain is smoother and easier to work for mild asseleration increases. Also, the center console is better designed for long legs.
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Hard seats sore ass
Jan, 12/15/2017
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
6 of 11 people found this review helpful
I'm 5' 5 and still have to have the seat all the way up to see over the hood and still do not have the vision to judge where the front of your car is. The seats are hard and long trips are very uncomfortable. When it snows the ice stays on the windshield no matter how I adjust the defrosters. It has no compass as my other autos have had. The trunk is large but the trunk lid is small and larger item won't fit. It does have a good get up and go and has always been reliable a god grocery getter but wouldn't recommend it for long distance.
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Wanna see ya in a KIA
Pammy smith, 04/12/2016
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
6 of 12 people found this review helpful
Decent car for the price. Turbo a big help since it is a 4cyl. Wish it had auto seats.
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Great concept, not well executed.
MG, 01/09/2017
updated 07/15/2019
2016 Kia Optima SX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
8 of 17 people found this review helpful
Right after I bought the car I began to hear a creaking sound when the rear tires were going into dips in the road. One dealership was refusing to diagnose properly and I had to call KIA corporated and take it to a different one, it turned out that there were defective welds in the rear. The dealership mechanics do a horrible job with warranty work so if you think the KIA 100,000 miles warranty is going to help, you're wrong. I actually fear going to them for getting another scratch on my car or them breaking something else as they attempt to fix something under warranty (apparently they don't get paid well for that work). Here is what went wrong in 50k miles of highway driving: weld defects, headlights, a/c control, a/c actuator, electric folding mirror, transmission shifter. At nearly 50k that's too much for a well maitained car that has seen 90 percent highway driving. FIRST REVIEW: I'm a demanding customer and I had Toyotas before, which I found to be excellently built (last long with very few problems) and functioning cars, but the ten year old Toyota that I had was totalled in a crash with an unlicensed driver and that Camry was too noisy and had too much body lean and insufficient cornering ability for my style, so I decided to try a different brand, but I needed an all around sedan type vehicle without a 40 grand price tag. Still, my SX Turbo with tech package cost 32 thousand including tax and fees! My main gripe at first was with the steering. It's so numb and/or stiff, that I often found myself parking incorrectly; no steering feeling whatsoever. Then, despite expensive Michelin tires, you feel like the suspension doesn't allow you to take full advantage of the tires on curves. On the other hand, after a near- accident incident I can report that the automatic emergency breaking works very well with the sensors and tires to avoid accidents by allowing you to steer very well as you skid, even on wet surfaces. Also those Michelin tires are worth it! Though it can be noisy, the turbo engine is very powerful, especially in highway passing (40-70) and at above-legal speeds (watch out for tickets), but there is a problem in terms of steering and road feel as well as little visibility (even with blind spot monitor ) so you don't feel confident in quick maneuvers through highway traffic when it's crowded, so you have just stay in the left lane and use just brute speed to efficiently go from place to place in those conditions whereas a car with more road feel and visibility like the Honda Accord might allow maneuvering more safely and quickly between cars . Also, the car has three drive modes (eco, sport, and normal). In normal mode, on certain slightly hilly up and down roads, the turbo engine is somewhat inconsistent in terms of when the turbo kicks in (not sure if its lag or some other issue) and can make it difficult to accelerate predictably when passing or merging into traffic, so you need to have the car in sport mode for maximum acceleration at those times or you will be alarmed by its low acceleration. Unfortunately, once you are off the highway in more urban traffic, when in sport mode to make the most of the enine, starts from a dead stop can be extremely noisy and difficult to control, calling unnecessary attention to yourself so people want to race you (haha) and generally making too much noise in an urban setting, so you have to switch out of Sport mode in town. Annoying. Finally, you notice details that are poorly tested, like one touch windows that are very difficult not to activate, or a defogger that takes more than 15 minutes to do the job, or automatic locking keyless entry that you can't figure out how to unlock the other doors once you have unlocked the front one, like one click gas cap that has a weird feel, like cheap carpeting on the rear shelf when you have leather seats etc, like a dry leather on the steering wheel, like paint that chips with the tiniest stone, like a navigation system that can't find the local bus station, like voice recognition that doesn't recognize. Then minor problems under warranty that dealerships should be repairing easily are a problem: service reps can't duplicate concern, tech's can't fix something or break something new when fixing... et etc. Finally, I had to get a manufacturer field rep to repair the auto head and rear lamps which would go off for no reason in the middle of the night. Also, generally the materials of the interior and exterior seem brittle, easy to break/ scratch and poor quality... Look, It's a beautiful looking car for sure (in this version) , and most everybody agrees it is, but I'm not sure that I can deal with the lack of quality in design that makes a car REALLY work well or that I can deal with the numb steering... if you're a demanding, detail oriented customer who likes quality above all else (and I don't mean name brand, but years of flawless service), look elsewhere. I've maintained this car extremely well.
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Amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
Carlos, 09/05/2017
2016 Kia Optima SX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
The best car i never had!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I use to buy German car but KIA Optima change my mind!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Great Car
Carol Cunningham, 08/20/2016
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 6 people found this review helpful
I love the car the featureless and the new look
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2016 Kia Optima, boom, you'll love this car
Jamie, 03/02/2016
updated 09/05/2017
2016 Kia Optima SX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
6 of 15 people found this review helpful
The car is worth the price. Shop around for best pricing. Don't settle, get the options you want.
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Eesh
Grant , 01/20/2024
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Now, everyone has their bad apple but researching my issues showed plenty to go around. Just traded it in for a Subaru after finally paying it off. Was stalling at red lights here and there, burning oil too fast, uncomfortable (I’m 6’ 200lb), too wide on outside compared to room inside, driver seat upholstery by console came un-clipped from seat, and their lengthy process for warranty on the burning oil was stretching it out to where it would have been past the warranty. This was 70k miles and I am OCD on my vehicles. Looking at Kia’s good reviews overall is baffling compared to research on the recalls and issues for certain models over and over but I did realize a lot of the reviews for vehicles are based on looks, acceleration, and technology which has nothing to do with longevity. Happy I finally drove further to get a Subaru, all my family up in MN has driven for 300+k miles. Their reviews can be even lower than Kia on certain models but yet consumer reports show Subaru owners hold on to theirs far longer than most brands. Something to think on when taking reviews into count.
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Go for Kia
Dylan , 08/24/2019
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I’ve had my 2016 Kia Optima LX for almost 2 years now and I absolutely love it! Only thing I’ve had to do is change the tires on it. No engine/mechanical problems whatsoever!
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Not your fathers Oldsmobile
MR. FORD FAN, 04/03/2020
updated 04/08/2021
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
A lot for your money. Well appointed, many standard features for model year, Quiet with pleasant ride.
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You truly hate someone? Tell them to buy this car.
Mitchell, 01/09/2025
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought a 2016 Kia Optima in 2017 with 22,000 miles. It was burning oil right from the start, before my very first oil change. Asked Kia service department to check for leaks and they said there were no leaks. I could not figure out why I had to replace oil between oil changes when there was no oil leaking on the ground. The engine eventually crashed, but Kia said it wouldn’t replace it because the engine seals were leaking oil and that was not a covered repair. That cost me $1,300. A few thousand miles later and the engine was finally done for good, unrepairable this time, at 104,000 miles, and again Kia would not replace it. This time under the 150,000-mile extended warranty (due to the class action settlement) they basically said, “Sure it’s a trashy engine, but it didn’t break in the way the warranty demands, so, too bad. Wouldn’t want to be you!” #*%@^ jokers (edited for family audiences). Absolutely no car having the proper recommended maintenance, as mine did, should be headed to the junk yard at 104,000 miles! At that point, every other “normal” car I’ve owned (I’ve had 11 with all reaching at least 200,000 miles except for ones totaled or stolen) still had decent resale value. The 2016 Kia Optima is the absolute worst! If you truly hate someone, recommend that they buy this car.
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Would buy it again!
Bryan Addleman , 06/29/2024
2016 Kia Optima SXL Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Just turned 63500,car is quiet as ever, handles as well with as comfortable a ride as it ever did.Just change the oil and a couple sets of tires that's the only money I be to put into it since I've owned it. Great car! I'd buy it again!
Smooth Ride
Kathy, 05/03/2020
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Love the Optima it’s a spacious car plenty of legroom front and back. Drives fast and smooth. You can’t beat the warranty on the Kia.
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Almost perfect
Eugene, 12/07/2020
2016 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My 2016 LX+ in four years gave me only one lost day on a ECU recall. So it would only say the things that I do not like about this car: 1. The noice from the road is very loud. 2. The 2.4l engine is not the fastest in it's class even tho, it "drinks" gas as one.. 3. Suspensin is more on the sport side. Everything else: the design, material quality, features, it is almost perfect.
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Bad engine
Stick, 06/17/2022
2016 Kia Optima SX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
While driving on 89A (twisting mountain road) the car just stops. Cannot restart it and does not appear to be the battery or alternator. Had to be towed to nearest KIA dealership and having to have the engine replaced under warranty. KIA is picking up the towing bill and rental car expense while car is in the shop. Only 37,000 miles and all service records are up to date. Very disappointed as it is a great little car with the turbo.
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