Kia Optima Review from Australia and New Zealand

2004 Kia Optima LX V6 2.5 petrol

Model year2003
Year of manufacture2004
First year of ownership2004
Most recent year of ownership2005
Engine and transmission 2.5 petrol Automatic
Performance marks 9 / 10
Reliability marks 9 / 10
Comfort marks 8 / 10
Dealer Service marks 9 / 10
Running Costs (higher is cheaper) 7 / 10
Overall marks (average of all marks)
8.4 / 10
Distance when acquired0 kilometres
Most recent distance28000 kilometres
Previous carHonda Accord

Summary:

True value for money

Faults:

Nothing major, the headlight (left) had a bit of moisture. The dealership replaced the whole headlight assembly free of charge as it was covered by warranty.

General Comments:

I bought this car brand new from the dealership at about two thirds the price of a Honda Accord. The car is really fantastic, the pick-up and power surge of the V6 engine is just right to get out of tight situations.

The feel inside could be improved though! It feels a bit too plastic. Driver seat is just about comfortable, not too plush. There is ample legroom in both the front and the rear seats. The boot, surprisingly is large.

Styling and body panels are obviously borrowed from Hyundai Sonata, but who cares. Interestingly the profile (especially the silver colored car) looks a wee bit like the Merc C200 Kompressor and quite often people have asked me if I own a Merc (a flattering thought)

The dealership here in NZ have been extremely helpful.

Overall a great car to own at bargain basement prices.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th September, 2005

Average review marks: 8.4 / 10, based on 1 review