I’m searching for a used automatic car in the $10-15k range and wanted to know if anyone has owned a 2012 Kia Optima. The one I’m interested in has around 130k mileage.
I’ve seen mixed reviews online about its engine reliability and would love to hear your thoughts if you’ve had any experience with it. Thanks a lot!
Also, I’ve been checking out Mazda 3s and Accord Euros within the same price range and I’m curious about how the Kia compares in terms of long-term reliability.
A friend of mine has an Optima Platinum since new. She’s had zero issues except for the panoroof needing regreasing since she rarely uses it. If you can drive manual, I’d recommend the Accord Euro.
Emmy said:
A friend of mine has an Optima Platinum since new. She’s had zero issues except for the panoroof needing regreasing since she rarely uses it. If you can drive manual, I’d recommend the Accord Euro.
Thanks for your input! I can’t drive manual unfortunately, but I’ve heard good things about the Euro, even as an automatic.
@Adi
The Euro, not the other Accord, is one of the best Hondas made. I have driven the 5-speed auto and it’s just not great. I would pick the Euro if it were manual. If you can learn manual, you’ll love that car. I know three friends with theirs over 310k with regular maintenance.
The Euro is an excellent car. I would focus on that instead.
The Kia is okay, but it’s not in the same category as the Honda.
Auden said:
The Euro is an excellent car. I would focus on that instead.
The Kia is okay, but it’s not in the same category as the Honda.
Thanks! Have you driven both? I don’t know many people with one, but I’ve heard the brand has really improved recently.
@Adi
I’ve driven an Accord Euro some. I’ve been in Kias as Ubers but not much else.
Back in 2012, you can’t compare the engineering differences between Honda and Kia.
The Accord Euro is made in Japan, has double wishbone suspension all around, big brakes, and the Honda K engine is one of the best 4-cylinder engines ever made. The two cars just don’t compare.
The Kia is a decent car, but the Accord Euro is one of the top three reliable brands out there (Honda, Toyota, Lexus).
@Auden
People tend to forget that the engine and the driving experience should come first in a car. Kia usually has a nicer interior which can distract people. If it were a newer Kia, I’d argue differently, but it’s not.
My first real car was a 2013 Kia Optima Platinum I bought used with about 20,000 km on it. I still have it as a backup since I live in a multi-generational household. It’s been really reliable with nearly 140,000 km. The only issues have been some flaking interior chrome and one back door lock that I’m fixing before selling it. Otherwise, it’s comfortable, a bit sporty, and still one of my favorite small sedans.
Stay away from Hyundai and Kia models from 2007 to 2015.
I owned a 2006 Euro and it was fantastic. I got it from a deceased estate with low KM and top features. No issues in the 5 years I had it. I sold it for a new CR-V, but I regret not giving it to my wife and selling her car instead.
I got my 2020 Cerato from a customer who works for Kia and he said Kia has really improved recently.
Kia is good now, but without the long history like Toyota, they haven’t had as much time to refine their cars.
Kia typically offers better value for money with extra features that other brands charge more for or don’t include.
The time between 2010 and 2016 was unusual for car manufacturers with strange design choices, popularity of diesels when many didn’t realize the downsides, and interiors focusing more on safety and infotainment features like Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay.
I had a 2013 Optima for almost 2 years, bought used in 2015 with around 50,000 km. I loved that car and had to sell it only because of a job change that came with a company car. Otherwise, I’d still have it.
I had a 2013 Optima Platinum that I adored. I only let it go for a Stinger.
For what it’s worth, they feel similar inside, just slower.
Barrett said:
I had a 2013 Optima Platinum that I adored. I only let it go for a Stinger.
For what it’s worth, they feel similar inside, just slower.
What about one that has 173k on it?
@Clayton
That would really depend on the maintenance it received. At that age, unless it’s a one or two-owner car, there’s a high chance the maintenance records aren’t reliable enough for me to trust.
You might need to find out if the Optima had its engine replaced, since that’s a common issue with those cars. I suggest going for the Accord Euro instead!
I know someone who has an Optima Platinum since new. I’m not sure of the mileage but he says it’s a nice car. As far as I know, he’s faced zero issues and it’s a very comfortable ride with all the features you’d expect.
But as everyone is saying, if you choose the Accord, go for the manual. Another friend has had his from new with no major engine issues since 2004.
It sounds like you’re interested in the Optima, but I’d say if you want it, just go for it!
No. Not a good engine and not reliable.
Arlen said:
No. Not a good engine and not reliable.
[deleted]