Kia Optima

Name: 2003 Kia Optima
Brand: Kia

EPA MPG: NA

RECALL ALERT: There are 2 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 2 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

RECALL ALERT: There are 2 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 2 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

CR's Take

The midsized Optima is essentially a Hyundai Sonata with less-adventurous styling and a generous helping of exterior chrome. Like the Sonata, it is available in two trim levels and with a choice of two engines: a 2.4-liter Four or a 2.7-liter V6. The V6 models are available only with an automatic transmission. Four-cylinder models come reasonably well equipped, though antilock brakes aren't offered. As in the Sonata, the interior is fairly spacious and quiet, and the V6 powertrain reasonably refined. Handling is not the Optima's forte.

Reliability Details

Owner Satisfaction Details

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2003 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

This Car

100

0 - 100

Kia Optima

vs. Similar Cars

Honda Accord

Toyota Camry

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Acceptable

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Owner Reports

Owner Satisfaction

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

Kia vs. Other New Car Brands

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Acceptable

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Kia vs. Other New Car Brands

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Acceptable

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Kia vs. Other New Car Brands

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2003 Midsized cars Ratings

2003 Kia Optima

$2,900 - $2,925

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Chevrolet Malibu

$2,850 - $2,925

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Chrysler Sebring

$2,900 - $3,075

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Honda Accord

$3,475 - $4,650

EPA MPG 24 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Hyundai Sonata

$3,025

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Mazda 6

$3,050 - $3,200

EPA MPG 25 mpg

Road test

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Owner Satisfaction

2003 Mitsubishi Galant

$2,850 - $2,900

EPA MPG 23 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Nissan Altima

$2,900 - $3,150

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Pontiac Grand Prix

$3,100 - $3,850

EPA MPG 22 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Saab 9-5

$2,975 - $3,100

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Subaru Legacy

$3,025 - $4,100

EPA MPG 25 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Toyota Camry

$4,150 - $4,600

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Volkswagen Passat

$2,975 - $4,350

EPA MPG 22 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

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Features & Specs

sedan

2 front, 3 rear

Front

2.4-liter 4 (138 hp)
2.7-liter V6 (170 hp)

5-speed manual
4-speed automatic

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

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Model History

2016-2020

2016 Redesign Year

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.

2011-2015

2011 Redesign Year

A major redesign for 2011 made the Optima much better, with nimble handling, but a stiff ride. The up-level engine, a lively turbocharged four-cylinder, returned a respectable 24 mpg, but exhibited less refinement than a V6. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder performs well. An unrefined hybrid is offered too. The coupe-like styling detracts from rear visibility and cabin access. We'd try to find an Optima LX with the Convenience Plus package in order to get the power driver's seat and rear camera. Our other favorite combination is the Optima EX with the Premium and Technology (navigation and blind spot monitoring) packages.

2006-2010

2006 Redesign Year

The 2006 mid-model year redesign maintained the comfort of the quiet cabin and the composed ride, while improving handling. ABS and ESC were common with the EX, but hard to find in the LX. Controls are easy to use, the interior is nicely detailed and the rear seat is among the most comfortable in its class. Optional, power-adjustable pedals help all drivers find a comfortable position. Outward visibility is very good, but the high rear deck lid limits the view when backing up. Overall, it's a nice sedan at a low price, with engines delivering competitive fuel economy and performance.

2001-2005

2001 Redesign Year

The midsized Optima delivers a lot of content at a reasonable price. Comfort, quiet and refinement are numbered solidly among its attributes. The Kia also has very good fit and finish. The engine, while smooth, isn't very fuel efficient, despite its small displacement. Agility is lacking too. Limited headroom, inhibited access and a somewhat compromised driving position are issues as well. With all of that said however, its Poor score in the IIHS side-crash test is our most significant concern about this model.