2006 Kia Optima LX review from North America
"A Decent Choice For A New Car For Someone Who Doesn't Want To Spend A Lot of Money"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Warning light came on - the problem was with a sensor in the front seat. Dealer replaced the entire seat.
General comments?
The Good:
Length of warranty is excellent.
Car was inexpensive.
Turning radius is pretty good. Seats are comfortable.
Has a center armrest which my old car didn't.
The Bad:
The cruise control is the worst I've ever seen. Speed varies constantly 5 mph too fast or too slow. Very annoying.
Manual shifter has the longest throws - by far - of any vehicle I've ever driven.
The O.K.:
Gas mileage is average. Ride quality is o.k., interior room is o.k., trunk size is decent. Interior noise level is fine.
Recommended reviews
![]() ![]() | 2006 - Optima 2006.5 LX-V6 2.7 V6 Impossible to beat |
![]() ![]() | 2005 - Optima LX 2.0 4 cylinder Good value for the price, particularly with the long warranty |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 2006 |
| First year of ownership | 2006 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.4L Manual |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 7/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 8000 miles |
| Previous car | Nissan Hardbody Pickup |
| Date of Entry | 27th September, 2006 |

