Auto Guide
2020 Kia Optima
Used

Review and specifications

2020 Kia Optima

Riding on an all-new chassis shared with the Hyundai Sonata, the redesigned 2016 Optima midsized sedan packs a lot of substance and value. It drives nicely, with a firm yet absorbent ride and responsive, secure handling. The mainstream 2.4-liter four-cylinder is pleasant, while the uplevel 2.0-liter turbo four packs more punch. New to the line is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The EX trim features comfortable leather seats, automatic climate control, a roomy rear seat, and heating for the seats and steering wheel. We got 28 mpg with the 2.4-liter. Low-positioned dash vents are our only gripe. The latest version of Kia's UVO touch-screen infotainment system works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A hybrid is also available. The 2019 freshening brings standard advanced safety features, including forward collision and rear cross- traffic warning, lane keeping assistance, and blind spot warning. The final production run of the Optima fizzled out after 2020.

Market value
$13,613
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
5
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Model year 2020
Owner rating 3/5
Reliability 3/5
Data updated December 4, 2025

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
sedan
Drive type
FWD
Transmission
Sequential, 7-speed
Category
Midsized cars
Generation began
2016

Pricing

Current retail median
$13,613
Retail value range
$10,250 - $16,100
Original MSRP range
$23,390 - $36,090
Trade-in range
$7,110 - $13,005

Ratings

Road test score
86/100
Owner satisfaction
3/5
Would buy again
57%
Reliability
3/5

Fuel economy

EPA city
24 MPG
EPA highway
35 MPG
EPA combined
28 MPG
Tested city
18 MPG
Tested highway
40 MPG
Tested overall
28 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,415
Cruising range
510 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.3 sec
0-60 mph
8 sec
60-0 mph braking
130 ft
Avoidance speed
51.5 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
191 in
Width
73 in
Height
58 in
Wheelbase
110 in
Weight
3,300 lb
Maximum load
905 lb
Towing capacity
0 lb

Interior

Seating
5 people
Front head room
4 in
Front leg room
42 in
Rear head room
3.5 in
Rear leg room
29.5 in
Luggage
3+2+0

Owner feedback

Comfort
4/5
Driving
5/5
Styling
3/5
Value
5/5

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
5/10
Greenhouse gas score
6/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Kia

For almost any modern vehicle category, there’s a Kia that’s worth considering buying. Among small and midsized SUVs, models like the Sportage and Sorento rank near the top in their respective classes for their nice interiors, ride comfort, and appropriately powerful engines. SUVs like the Telluride have ride comfort, interior space, and overall value that earn it regular placement near the top of Consumer Reports’ ratings. Fuel economy across the brand is generally good, but hybrid and plug-in hybrid options are available for even more miles per gallon. Plug-in hybrid options have useful all-electric driving range. Kia EVs are generally competent, ranging from compact sedans up to a three-row SUV. Kia’s reliability scores have been improving, but other brands score higher in our rankings. Specific Kia models have earned our recommendation among used cars.

Vehicle ID: 15026 First published: July 22, 2020 Updated: December 4, 2025

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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