You might be thinking, a used Kia? And that’s okay. Kia may not be the most sought after automotive brand out there, but J.D. Power has recognized it as the number one brand in Initial Quality for six years running. That said, maybe buying a used Kia isn’t such a bad idea after all, mainly if it’s the 2018 Kia Optima that you’re considering.

What’s it like to drive the 2018 Kia Optima?

The 2018 Kia Optima is, by no means, a sports sedan. However, that doesn’t make it any less enjoyable to drive. Driven by a base 185-hp 2.4-liter I-4 engine, the Kia also offered two additional engine options: a 178-hp 1.6-liter turbo I-4 engine and a 245-hp 2.0-liter turbo I-4 engine.

Opt for a Kia Optima driven by the available 2.0-liter turbo I-4 engine, and Kelley Blue Book says, “245-horsepower turbocharged engine, quick-shifting 6-speed automatic, and responsive steering all make the Optima SX turbo feel more agile and fun than many of its competitors.”

Kelley Blue Book wasn’t the only one to laud the Optima for its driving experience, either. Consumer Reports added there’s “a firmness to the Optima’s ride that’s evocative of higher-priced European sedans.”

Is the 2018 Kia Optima safe? Reliable?

After several safety improvements, the 2018 Kia Optima was tapped by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as a Top Safety Pick+. According to the IIHS, the Optima’s available front crash prevention system also earned a superior rating and in IIHS track tests at 12 mph and 25 mph, helped the vehicle to avoid collisions.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2018 Kia Optima a similarly high safety rating. In its crashworthiness tests, the 2018 Kia Optima scored a five out of five overall safety rating.

As for its overall reliability? Consumer Reports gave it a three out of five overall reliability rating. On the other hand, J.D. Power gave it a ‘Great’ quality and reliability rating. 

Treat yourself to a certified pre-owned model

Buying a used car can be stressful. How can you be sure its previous owner didn’t abuse it? That it was well taken care of and that not a single oil change was missed? Fortunately, Kia makes that pretty easy.

Because the 2018 model was only released a few short years ago, there’s a good chance of finding a certified pre-owned model. Every certified pre-owned Kia is less than five years old, has less than 60,000 miles on its odometer, and has undergone a rigorous 164-Point Quality Assurance Inspection. 

Choose a certified pre-owned Kia Optima, and you’ll enjoy comprehensive warranty coverage too. Not only will its 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty still be in effect, but each certified pre-owned Kia also comes with one year of platinum warranty coverage. 

The 2018 Kia Optima is a well-rounded used car

While a used car from Kia might not be at the top of your list, there are plenty of reasons to consider the 2018 Kia Optima. From its lineup of engines to the possibility of scooping up a certified pre-owned model, there’s no denying that the 2018 Kia Optima is a well-rounded used car that deserves a spot on your shopping list.