2006 KIA Optima

For being older, it is hanging in there well

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4 Safety Rating: Technology Rating: 3 Value Rating: 4

For the price, it has been a good car. I had to replace an intake manifold sensor a couple months ago, but that wasn't too expensive. This car has had problems with the transmission in its history. The torque converter had to be replaced. On a positive note, I have all the original suspension at 148,000k. Wisconsin winters (read: salty/slushy crap) are rough on the undersides of cars, but it is doing really good. The only thing that is rusted out is the parking brake, and I got all new parts for that for pretty cheap to rebuild it myself.

ehh

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

best car ive personally owned, but have had to put $1500 in the past 4months, not counting reg maintenance. NOT cheap parts like i had expected, will be searching for a honda next time.

Never getting a KIA again

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 2

I will never own a KIA again. I had to get the AC replaced 2 months after getting it new off the lot took them 4 weeks. I have also had to replace the sun visors 3 times on each side. The visors are only replaced in the first 50K, and I am not going to pay $130.00 for the visor now. Even the dealer says they see them all the time with velcro, tape, and one person stapled them up. The computer says that I am getting 29MPG but I have NEVER gotten it that good. I keep up the maintenance and when I run the numbers while filling up I am getting 19 to 20MPG. I will not even get into how you can't set the castor and camber on the front end. If you are cutting tires you can't fix it.

Wheel alignment

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

Ever since I took this car out of the dealership, new in 2006, it had problems pulling to the right. I took it back 3 times to the dealer and they could not fix it. At times they used the values of the 2004 model. I have taken it to other alignment shops, and the alignment problem never got good. It pulls to the right. Yesterday i was changing the oil filter and I noticed 3 shims 1/16" thick on one side of the frame. It looks like the frame is the problem, it was never straight.

visors

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

There is no reason that a car manufacturer can not use a proven design of a part that has never had any problems in the past, for any car make. I had my driver side replaced at the dealership, and although I used it normally, I gave them the benefit of the doubt. But when the passenger side went bad, with hardly any use, it sure made me wonder about their quality of product. Kia should stand behind it and provide a product that does not break!!!

Comfortable car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought this car new loaded for wife in early 07 and we're the original owners with only 37K miles in 4 years. It is not as refined as the Camry or Accord but much more comfortable. We bought it for the 10 year warranty and rear legroom since we often carry 4 tall adults. I usually don't fit in cars with a sunroof because of my height but this one fits. V6, auto and 24MPG. Major complaint is recent check engine lite for the fuel vapor system with multiple dealer visits but all under warranty so far.

You've got to be kidding me!!!

Performance: 2 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 3

I bought this car, 2006.5 Optima two years ago based on the semi-glowing reviews of this and other sites. What a mistake. I'm wondering if there are any real drivers out there. This car is an engineering piece of junk, nice looking with accessorie wheels, but not much else. MPG is puzzling also. Only car I've ever had that got poorer mileage on the freeway than around town-dealer can't explain this phenomena. Oh, great ad campaign, Kia, all image and no substance. End note: if you drive like grandma or the snowbirds we entertain in Az, by all means, buy the Kia. If you're any other kind of driver, push it far, far, down your list. Disappointment is waiting.

I'm a Kia Fan!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We have had this car for about 9 months and it has been great. We even bought it from a car rental place! It has run great with no major mechanical issues. Occasionaly when its been a while since the last oil change it will be hesitant on the acceleration and the check engine light comes on, but once you change the oil its back to perfect. Now my wife and I are searching for an SUV and lets just say the Kia Borrego is high on our list! Kia makes quality cars and your not going to find anything more reliable than this for the price! I get 25-30 miles per gallon with a good mix driving of highway and city miles.

Good Commuter Car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this purely as a commuter car, I have another fun car and I didn't buy this car to look good or have fun. For a commuter car, it's perfect. Nothing fancy, cheap. Of course Toyotas and Honda's are nicer, but if you just need something cheap, reliable and has enough basic features - this car is perfect. Acceleration is good enough. I put 100 miles/day on it, and I cruise at 75-80 mph most of the way and it handles it fine. I test drove some Chevy's and I liked the Kia better.

Worst Mistake Ever Made

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Bought in Feb. 2007 to replace 2000 Kia Sephia. Biggest mistake we could've made. Less than two months after purchasing it, we had to have the compressor for the AC replaced and that was just the first in a line of major issues we had over the 3 years we had this piece of junk. The crank shaft pulley broke, which in turn caused the timing belt to have to be replaced, too. Then, we started having to replace at least one low-beam headlight every month because they kept blowing. The final straw was that the passenger door started having some kind of issue where it wouldn't unlock and stay unlocked - you unlock, pull handle, then it re-locks itself. FINALLY got rid of this car last week!

I'm a New Kia Fan!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I love my Optima. I bought it 3yrs. old with 32k miles. It now has 37k miles. It's been a very enjoyable car. Although it's a midsize family sedan, it's fun to drive with its mildly sporty character. The 4cyl. has plenty of pep and returns good mileage for a car this size. Fuel economy has ranged from 27-34mpg. That's with about 80% hwy driving. The 5-spd manual is not all that great in terms of feel, but makes the car more fun to drive. The suspension is firm, yet rides smoothly. On bumps and rough roads however, it feels too harsh. Steering feel is fairly tight and responsive, but could be better at lower speeds. Brakes feel great. Seats are very comfortable, but lack lumbar support.

Loved It!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I really loved my Kia. It is so unassuming. I used to be a person who frowned on a Kia. After test driving a few cars and being disappointed with their get up and go (Honda Civic included). The dealer brought the Optima out. I put my foot on the gas and was GONE! Smooth ride, great on gas... I love it!

Surprised by a KIA but wishing for more

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I was pleased with the overall feel of this vehicle and appearance from the day I began test driving Optimas. This car gave the most bang for the buck of everything I had driven. The engine is very responsive and the ride is very smooth. This seems to be the perfect vehicle for anyone who does not maintain the vehicle as needed. Whenever I have done simple maintenance, it reacts adversely. I constantly drive the same Highway to work and back and after cleaning the fuel injectors my gas mileage dropped from an average of 32 to 26 without any change in driving pattern. I also wish I had looked for one that did not smell smokey. I thought it could be taken out easier.

problems, problems

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

Repairs started at 36,000 miles. Warranty would not cover according to mechanic. It was not a manufacturing defect. $4000.00 in repairs so far & it still is not drivable. Check engine light stays on. It has a new flywheel, clutch, timing belt, new sensors crank etc. EGR valve sensor, don't know what the new problem is. Out of money & patience

Happy Owner

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned this car for over a year. I bought it as a repossession with only 8,250 miles on it. It replaced a 1996 Buick LeSabre which was an incredible lemon. Although there is less space inside the car the comfort and quietness of the ride are comparable. I have also had good luck with the Kia dealership. I'd definitely consider buying another Kia if I were in the market for a vehicle.

Great Value

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Told my wife that this car was the best value for the money when she bought it. The only problem is that now it has very little trade in value. Have been trying to find a reason to dislike this car, but can't. Fit and finish are good. Everything is good. Nothing poor and nothing outstanding

Low Trade in

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my 2006.5 Kia Optima, It gets very good gas mileage. The only problem that I have with my Kia is that it has a low value for trade in. It rides very good handle bumps well.

Great Car - not as good gas as 2006 1/2

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought right after Thanksgiving 2005. Except for some minor repairs, I love the car. The ceiling could be higher (I am only 5'2"). Would like the left "foot rest" to be closer. Mileage is bad, 17 miles/gal, they adjusted with the 2006½ model which came out 1½ months AFTER I bought mine. I know it will not last as long as my 2nd car - my 1980 Subaru, which I also purchased new and still have.

Switched from a SUV

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Just bought a used 2006.5 Optima LX w/V6 (19K miles) and appearance package. It has been a blast so far. The ride, although firm, is good, especially on the highway, and the ride is acceptable in town. Fuel economy is good and a bit better than expected. All aspects of vehicle meet my expectations. I had a Nissan Pathfinder for 7+ years, so the size change is significant. Operating costs should go down with this. Vehicle fits my lower back well (have had back surgeries) and was a factor in my decision to buy. Also, the fact that I bought one and someone else had already took the depreciation hit sure helped. Vehicle is just a bit noisy on rough pavement, but acceptable.

My Kia is better than my Volvo

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car replaced a 2004 Volvo S40. I found the 2006 Kia to be comparable to the car it replaced in most respects: the sound system is superior as is the quiet, smooth ride. This car compares to a Volvo but the sticker shock and cost of maintenance is far lower. I would definitely recommend this car!

Amazing value in a midsize sport sedan

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I test drove Fusions, Camrys, Accords, Sonatas and this is the one that impressed me the most. It just felt good. I liked the way it handles and the interior design, materials and layout is incredible. Most room of any in its class. I have the appearance package with the great 6 CD + MP3 player. I can get 60 albums in MP3 format on 6 CDs. The performance Michelins are every thing their advertised to be and definitely add to the already great handling. If they put a larger 6 cyl in this thing it would be a monster!

Much more than expected!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I never thought that I would like a Kia, but this car was too good to pass up. After a Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer, I needed something that was dependable and good on gas. I've had two Nissan cars that were excellent and looked in that direction, but two friends have Kias (one car and one suv) and swear by them, not at them. Three months have passed and I like my Optima a lot. It has a smooth ride and handles well on any road surface and around corners. Very stable drive. The 2.4L 4cyl engine delivers a lot more power than I expected. The cabin is pretty quiet and I've heard no rattles or noises in the car so far. I'm VERY satisfied.

Big Car with Big MPG!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We tried both the v6 and the 4 cylinder, and found that the performance was almost identical due to the lighter curb weight of the 4 cylinder and only about 20 hp difference. I measured a zero to 60 time of 9 seconds, which is almost the same as the v6, but the 4 is good for a rated highway mpg of 34, and on a trip I got a full 35 mpg, and have averaged over 25 mpg average with lots of city driving.Why buy a tiny car when you can get a larger car that does equally well in mpg? I love the appearance package and the black perforated leather interior, and am glad that for 2007 they have added a couple of options that were not available on mine. This is my third Kia, and all have been great.

awwsome

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car, never thought that I would be this happy with a Kia.

Can't be beat for the price

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I test drove a comparable 06 Hyundai Sonata and I went with the Kia because it was $8,000 less. The Sonata may have had a little more power and dual exhaust, but the Kia was basically the same car minus $8,000. I went with aftermarket leather from the dealer as my Optima came with cloth. Now with leather I love the Optima. It's quick, and even gives the option of manumatic shifting, which can be fun. It's a nice quiet drive as well. I test drove a 2006.5 4 cylinder and found it lacking compared to the 2006 V6, even though the power output is similar. The V6 keeps up with the boytoy Hondas nicely. :)

My 2nd Kia

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car and value for the money. Toyota Camry may have just won the award, but this car surpasses it in almost all areas. Also have a 2003 Kia Sedona and can attest to the reliability and sound quality. The car was really designed nicely with many features standard that are only found on luxury cars. The car is very stylish and looks great.

That's a Kia?

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

If I had a nickel for every time I heard that question! I just bought this car a week ago and already have 600 miles. The computer indicates my average MPG is 27. The car is just very well-built. Nothing squeaks, rattles or looks out of place. The fit and finish is first class. It doesn't feel like a 'cheap' car. It is the real deal. I don't know how they pack that much value into such a (relatively) low sticker price. Kia made it easy to choose this car. They didn't hold back all the goodies and spent the time and money to make this car more than pretty. I didn't think I was entitled to this much car for so little money.

Trip Computer

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I currently have a Hyundai Sonata and when I wanted to replace my wife's car, I looked at the new Sonatas. The way I wanted the car equipped (the new 4 cylinder and not the V6), Hyundai did not make a Limited with just the 4. In addition, I felt two things about the new Sonata, were below par. The first being the side mirrors. They are fixed, and cannot be folded back. The second is the display for the automatic air-conditioning system is much too small. The Optima allows one to purchase a fully loaded car and have the choice about the engine. The new 2.4 has had great reviews and now has a timing chain vs. a belt.

2006.5

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I have had the car for 4 months now and it has been reliable and comfortable. It's not a particularly easy car to drive around town because of low torque. Tried teaching my 15 year old to drive in it...not a good idea. Wife doesn't like driving it either.

Pretty good for the price

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Nice smooth ride, very spacious interior, responsive. I am very amazed with the trunk which is enormous. Two cup holders in the back. No interchangeable cd player. Don't like scan feature in the radio, keeps scanning and never stops. Good price.

The Power To Surprise!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My wife and I bought a new 2006.5 Optima in August, after test driving the competition (minus the Accord). We decided over the 2007 Toyota Camry because of KIA's Price, and the "07 CAMRY PARADE" of cars on the street (gotta stand out). The 06.5 Optima is BEAUTIFUL and it feels exclusive on the busy streets, not seeing another one for about some 40,000 cars later. The deep paint job, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and built-in 6-disk CD changer with Infinity speakers echoes cars that cost $1000s more. My reading and research suggests that the Germans, the Japanese, and American car makers are going to be following the Koreans real soon. With the 06.5 Optima, KIA lives up to it's motto!

As good as a Camry?

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

i bought the 2006.5 4 cylinder LX with 5 speed auto-stick. Listed for $18,500, out the door price was $16,000 after rebates and discounts.

Very Happy With My KIA

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had my optima for a month. I was very pleased with it when I bought it and I still am. I love the warranty. It feels like a luxury car without the hefty price tag.

My Ruby Red Jewel

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car replaced a Buick Century and I must say it has many better features than my GM auto did. It is roomier, much better protection for all riders, handles like a dream, and has the very best finish I've every seen on a new car. I've owned many new cars in my lifetime (I'm 75 years old) and this KIA is the best!

Drive a new Kia Optima

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I purchased this new 2006 Kia Optima LX 2.4L three weeks ago and drove it to Alabama and back to Colorado. The drive was great. I averaged around 28 MPG. The car is much more comfortable than the 03 Kia Spectra I traded in for this new one. My wife was surprised when I drove up in this new Optima. She didn't know for two weeks that I had purchased this new car. She wanted something that was comfortable. This vehicle is very comfortable. I'm happy with this 06 Optima and I would recommend this car to anyone.

Key sticks in ignition

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

My Kia Optima purrs like a kitten and rides like a dream! Mechanically, it has served me well. It is an attractive car and I am a proud owner.

GREAT INEXPENSIVE LUXURY CAR

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I recently bought the 2006.5 new style Kia Optima LX. Considering that I've only had it less than a week, it's still very new and I can't say just yet about the gas consumption. I do love the new style of the Optima over previous years. It looks like a very expensive luxury sedan. The Kia has LOTS of standard features that are options on the much higher prices competitors. This car has so much on it for the low cost compared to other manufacturers. So far I am totally enjoying my Optima and rate it highly! If you are looking for an inexpensive, great looking inside and outside, great driving luxury sedan, go for the 2006.5 Optima.

Purchased 2nd Kia vehicle

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I purchased this 2006 Optima LX on 16 Jun 2006 brand new from a local dealership here in Colorado Springs. They pretended to have a $3K rebate since I was so upside down on the vehicle I traded in. My opinion, this 2006 Optima LX is built better than the Spectra. It's hard to make a really good detailed review since I only had this vehicle less than a week. I went with price and options over quality. It drives and handles good and has 2.4 liters vs the 1.8 liters the 03 Spectra has. A much faster vehicle with more power. I later found out via the internet that this 06 Optima LX model is obsolete for whatever that means. Many people have negative things to say about the Kia's. I'm pleased so far.

Kia Optima

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car for your money. The 4 cylinder drives like a V6. I would recommend this vehicle to anybody.

Best car I've ever had!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I'm a single mom that spends a great deal of time in my vehicle going to doctor appointments, running my kids around etc. so I wanted something that I could enjoy driving. Since I've had my Kia Optima, I absolutely love to drive now. The car handles well, fuel mileage is great - basically my whole family loves the car. I can't say enough for this car. Never thought I would be able to afford a car with all the bells and whistles this one has.

my car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very happy with car except with idle in gear at stop; everything else is great.

The Best Car for the Price

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The car is worth more than you pay for. It makes Honda and Toyota look like a joke! It has beautiful lines and drives better than its competition. I test drove it against the Corolla and the Civic and came back to buy the Optima. If you're looking for a car with quality this is the car to buy. Competitors better look out. There's a new kid in town.

Love my Kia

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my 2006 Kia! It has a lot of acceleration (it is a V6). Although, I have only owned it for a month, I like it more and more each day. I like the side air bags on the front seats and the defoggers on the side view mirrors. It has a smooth and quiet ride. In one month, it is hard to tell the "built quality" and the "reliability"; I only have 633 miles on it. However, I think I am going to enjoy my Optima for many years to come.

Kia Optima

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Very good car with great warranty. Since I have only owned the car for two days, it is hard to make a very detailed review. However, in the short time it has been in my possession, it has been a delight to drive.