The 2015 Kia Optima is available used from $12,341 to $19,721, comparable to other midsize sedans in its class. The Optima is missing some of the latest technology, and has some engine problems.
2015 Kia Optima: Quick Overview
- The 2015 Kia Optima isn’t the longest-lasting sedan on the market and it has reliability issues. It’s available used from $12,341 to $19,721. The SX with the turbocharged engine is the sportiest model.
- Two powertrain choices are offered. The 2.4L offers better fuel efficiency and the 2.0T gives you better performance.
- The 2015 Optima is near the middle of its class in fuel efficiency. Owners and critics agree the 2.4L engine does not feel powerful enough for a sedan this size.
- In 2015 there were five different models offered for the Optima with an updated infotainment system. This is a safe sedan earning a five-star crash test rating from the NHTSA, and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award.
- The 2015 Kia Optima ranks low in its class compared to the competition. It doesn’t have the technology and reliability that one wants from a car at this price. Overall, it’s hard to recommend the Optima because of these issues.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
Is the 2015 Kia Optima a Good Used Car?
When the 2015 Kia Optima was first launched, it received rave reviews from critics, but that reputation has faltered. Owners report issues with engine failures and other problems. The Optima ranks eighth overall based on owner reviews in the midsize sedan category. One of the strongest selling points for the Optima is the long 10-year powertrain warranty, helping reduce costs down the road.
How Much is a Used 2015 Kia Optima?
Pricing for a used 2015 Kia Optima starts at $12,341 and goes up to $19,721 as of 2021. This pricing will vary depending on the car’s condition, mileage, and trim. A 2015 Optima had an original price of $21,840 to $35,500.
What Problems Does the 2015 Kia Optima have?
The 2015 Kia Optima problems include recalls for leaking brake fluid, airbag failure investigation, and seized engines. The most serious issue with the 2015 Optima is engine problems. There are over 255 engine complaints reported to the NHTSA for this model year. Owners report their engine will sometimes seize, stall, and die, and may not start again. This is becoming more common with the Optima as they get older and rack up the miles.
There are also a few frequently reported problems. One of the most common issues the Optima has involves the door latches. A bad latch assembly can make the doors very difficult to open. A latch replacement fixes the problem.
What are the 2015 Kia Optima Models?
The 2015 Kia Optima’s five trim levels provide good value for the money in a reliable family sedan.
- The base 2015 Kia Optima is the LX with 16-inch alloy wheels, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker stereo system with CD, USB, and an AUX port
- An upgrade from the LX model, the EX adds a keyless ignition system, leather seats, dual-zone A/C, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
- Moving another step up, the SX has an upgraded suspension, optional 2.0L turbocharged engine, LED taillights, and 18-inch wheels.
- Top-of-the-line SXL features upgraded leather seating, LED fog lights, and Xenon headlights.
How Long Will the 2015 Kia Optima Last?
Kia has improved its quality over the years and a 2015 Optima should last over 150,000 miles, if you can avoid the engine problems. We reached this estimate based on ownership data across Kia’s model range. According to Repair Pal, it will cost about $470 per year to maintain a 2015 Optima. The most expensive repair that owners report is the cylinder head replacement. This fix comes in at $3,000 to $3300, and fortunately, it is a rare issue. If you want your Optima to last a long time, keeping up with scheduled maintenance is very important.
What Technology Does the 2015 Kia Optima Have?
- The 2015 Kia Optima has a base stereo with six speakers including USB/AUX jacks and Bluetooth technology.
- Infotainment technology can be upgraded to a UVO2 Infotainment system with voice control powered by Microsoft, and a rearview camera.
- An eight-speaker Infinity surround sound system for better sound quality is also an available upgrade.
- An optional brake assist system to help increase braking force to prevent accidents comes standard on the SXL trim.
Does the 2015 Kia Optima have Good Gas Mileage?
There are two engines available for the 2015 Kia Optima. The base 2.4L gives you a combined fuel rating of 26 miles per gallon. If you upgrade to the more powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine, you get a combined rating of 24 miles per gallon.
What Engine Options Does The 2015 Kia Optima Have?
Performance in the 2015 Kia Optima is decent for a midsize sedan. With the optional 2.0L turbo engine, 0-60 is achieved in 6.6 seconds. The upgraded suspension on the SX model also gives it a more sporty feel.
- The base engine in the 2015 Kia Optima is a 2.4L four-cylinder that makes 192 horsepower.
- An upgraded 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine is available that produces 274 horsepower.
What Colors Does the 2015 Kia Optima Come in?
How Safe is the 2015 Kia Optima?
In 2015, the Kia Optima received a five-star crash test rating from the NHTSA. In their tests, the Optima earned a five-star overall ranking across the board for frontal crash, side crash, and rollover. There is an optional rearview camera, but more advanced safety technologies like forward collision warning or lane departure warning systems are not available.
The IIHS awarded the Kia Optima a Top Safety Pick in 2015 as well. In the IIHS tests, the optima scored “good” in all cases aside from “small overlap front driver side” where it scored “acceptable.” Driver injury scores were also “good” across the board, meaning the Optima protects occupants during a crash.
How Big is the 2015 Kia Optima?
The 2015 Kia Optima is a midsize sedan and is about the same size as the rest of the competition. It’s 191 inches long, 72 inches wide, and 57 inches tall. The Optima 15.4 cu. ft. of cargo space in the trunk, enough to haul golf clubs, luggage, and groceries with ease.
How Does the 2015 Kia Optima Compare to Other Cars?
One of the 2015 Kia Optima’s strongest competitors is the Honda Accord. The Accord ranks at the top of the list for midsize sedans for the 2015 model year, and it beats the Optima in nearly every way. It has a funner driving experience, better interior materials, and more technology.
Another competitor is the 2015 Hyundai Sonata. These two are a closer match, but the Hyundai has better technology since being redesigned in 2015. Hyundai also adds more safety features than Kia, making it the better choice. The Optima feels dated when compared to the Sonata.
Final Verdict: Do We Recommend the 2015 Kia Optima?
It is hard to recommend the 2015 Kia Optima. It does score well regarding fuel efficiency and safety, but lacks in other areas. It can do most things that a midsize sedan should do, but doesn’t stand out from the pack. The Optima lacks the technology and reliability of its competitors. It also has engine failures requiring an expensive fix if when not covered under warranty.
Photos: Kia