2012 Kia Optima

MSRP Range:
$19,500 - $26,500
Local Dealer Price: Get Quotes
User Rating: 4 Reviews | Write a Review
Fuel Economy: 22/34 mpg

Select a Trim below for more detailed vehicle information

2012 Kia Optima Trims	MSRP	Fuel	Engine
4dr Sdn 2.4L Man LX	$19,500	24 / 35 mpg	Gas I4 2.4L/144
4dr Sdn 2.4L Auto LX	$21,000	24 / 35 mpg	Gas I4 2.4L/144
4dr Sdn 2.4L Auto EX	$23,200	24 / 35 mpg	Gas I4 2.4L/144
4dr Sdn 2.0T Auto EX	$25,100	22 / 34 mpg	Turbocharged Gas I4 2.0L/122
4dr Sdn 2.4L Auto EX Hybrid	$25,800	34 / 39 mpg	Gas/Electric I4 2.4L/144
4dr Sdn 2.0T Auto SX	$26,500	22 / 34 mpg	Turbocharged Gas I4 2.0L/122

New Car Finder

View all Kia Reviews Recent Kia Reviews

The Optima was entirely new in 2011, and it comes back basically the same for 2012. The new model showcases a dramatic new design that's been led by Kia's new Soul and Forte small cars. ...more

The Optima shows off the brand's new European-influenced style, with crisp but flowing lines and a chrome-tipped dual exhaust on all models. The new Optima comes in four trims: LX, EX, EX Hybrid, EX Turbo and SX. Both the LX and EX are powered by an all-new 2.4L direct-injected 4-cylinder engine making 200 horsepower. EX Turbo and SX models get a new direct-injected turbocharged 2.0L four making 274 horsepower. The base LX can be equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox or 6-speed automatic, while all the other models come only with the automatic.

Fuel economy ratings with the base 2.4L 4-cylinder are very impressive, at 24 mpg city, 35 highway. The turbo models aren't that much lower, at 22 city/34 highway. All automatics come with a Sportmatic manual mode. The EX Hybrid pairs the 2.4L engine with a lithium polymer battery and an electric motor to get up to 39 mpg on the highway. It comes with a conventional 6-speed automatic.

The Optima is front-wheel drive, utilizing a 4-wheel independent suspension incorporating MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link layout in back, with anti-roll bars in front. The suspension is tuned to be rather firm compared to some other mid-size sedan models, while electric power steering manages convey some feel of the road in tight corners. Inside, there's enough comfortable space for five adults and the trunk is among the more spacious ones in its class.

Optima LX models include a 6-way adjustable driver's seat, cruise control, SmartKey keyless entry, trip computer, tilt/telescopic steering adjustment and a sound system with satellite radio capability, aux and USB inputs and Bluetooth connectivity. Optima EX models get push-button start, a HomeLink garage-door opener, auto-down front windows and supplementary lighting, while the EX Turbo gets wood trim and metal accents. The top-of-the-line SX is outfitted in the way of sporty European imports, with black and carbon-fiber interior trim, woven black leather upholstery, steering-wheel paddle-shifters and metal pedals with lighted scuff plates.

All the important safety features come standard in the 2012 Kia Optima, including electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes with brake assist, front side airbags, full-length side-curtain bags and front active headrests.

2012 Kia Optima Model Changes

Fog lights and SmartKey keyless entry are now standard on all Optimas. The two Communication and Entertainment system packages have been discontinued.

2012 Kia Optima Value

Altogether, the Optima is one of the sportiest-feeling mid-size sedans in its base configuration, while the Turbo model promises the acceleration and responsiveness of rival V6 models but with true 4-cylinder fuel economy-as high as 24 mpg city and 35 highway, by EPA estimates. It fits Kia's tradition of packing more features and value into their vehicles at the same price as lesser-equipped rival models while actually forging a beautiful new design direction.

A hybrid powertrain continues to be available, and provides impressive fuel economy numbers of 34 city / 39 highway.

Resale value for the new Optima is looking strong. ALG, which supplies residual value data to the auto industry, significantly raised its residuals for this generation Optima compared to the previous model--indicating confidence that this new Optima will be worth much more come trade-in time. Kia also still has one of the strongest warranties in the business, with ten years or 100,000 miles for powertrain and a 5-year, 60,000-mile vehicle warranty and roadside assistance.

2012 Kia Optima Strengths

Stylish new design; roomy interior; excellent gas mileage, even with turbo; hybrid available; steering and handling; extensive standard features; strong resale value; long warranty Hide

2014 Kia Sorento Review
Significantly re-engineered for 2014, the Sorento doesn't really look it....
read full story
2014 Kia Forte Review
A swoopy shape, LED lights and plenty of optional extras make the 2014 Forte attractive, but is it more than just a pretty face?...
read full story
2013 Kia Sorento Review - Video
Loaded up in sporty and stylish SX trim, Kia's family hauler makes a strong argument against going with a premium brand....
read full story
2012 Kia Rio Review- Video
With a company reputation and nameplate that is often scrutinized, the old Kia Rio could easily be overlooked. Completely reimagined, it's no longer an underdog in its category. In fact, it's impossible to ignore....
read full story
2012 Kia Optima Hybrid Review
Kia's Optima Hybrid nails the details that make for a fun and sexy, eco-cruiser....
read full story
2012 Kia Forte 5-Door Hatchback Review
With fewer hatchbacks than sedans available in the compact segment, Kia's Forte 5-Door should have room to shine. But does it?...
read full story

Certain specifications, prices and equipment data have been provided under license from Chrome Data Solutions (“Chrome Data").© 2012 Chrome Data Solutions, LP. All Rights Reserved. This information is supplied for personal use only and may not be used for any commercial purpose whatsoever without the express written consent of Chrome Data. Chrome Data makes no guarantee or warranty, either express or implied, including without limitation any warranty of merchantability or fitness for particular purpose, with respect to the data presented here. All specifications, prices and equipment are subject to change without notice.

Car Comparisons

2013 Ford Focus ST

2013 Mazdaspeed3

2013 Ford Focus ST vs 2013 Mazdaspeed3

After dominating the hot hatch segment in North America for years, has the Mazdaspeed3 finally met its match in the European-inspired Focus ST?

2013 Ford Fusion vs 2014 Mazda6

Once siblings, the Ford Fusion and Mazda6 no longer share any parts but they certainly have a similar take on the family sedan. So which combines the best mix of fuel economy and practicality, with driving enjoyment and style?
2013 Mazda2 vs Mazda2 B-Spec Race Car

With just 100 hp it might seem like the Mazda2 has no place on a race track. But add a few race-ready upgrades and prepare to be impressed.
2013 Toyota Camry vs 2013 Honda Accord

Each year the Camry outsells the Accord, but should it? We put these two sales juggernauts to the test to find out which car you should buy.
2013 Honda Civic vs 2013 Nissan Sentra

It’s new versus all-new in this Japanese compact car comparison
2013 Buick Verano vs 2013 Acura ILX

By stuffing as much style and luxury into a small package under $30,000, which one of these two cars bests redefines entry-level luxury?

2015 Acura NSX Preview

Top 10 Underrated Cars

Focus ST vs Mazdaspeed3

2014 Chevrolet Silverado Review - Video

Auto Insurance

2012 Kia Optima

$19,500 - $26,500

Select a Trim below for more detailed vehicle information

4dr Sdn 2.4L Man LX

4dr Sdn 2.4L Auto LX

4dr Sdn 2.4L Auto EX

4dr Sdn 2.0T Auto EX

4dr Sdn 2.4L Auto EX Hybrid

4dr Sdn 2.0T Auto SX

New Car Finder

View all Kia Reviews Recent Kia Reviews

2012 Kia Optima Model Changes

2012 Kia Optima Value

2012 Kia Optima Strengths