Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2020 Kia Optima S
With an overall Carivo score of 7.4/10, the 2020 Kia Optima S earns a Good rating among the sedans we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Performance at 8.0/10. It's a capable but unexceptional sedan — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 7.4/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. On safety it earns 7.4/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
The 8.0/10 performance score reflects a chassis and powertrain that punch above the segment norm — this is a sedan you choose partly for the drive itself. Technology comes in at 7.8/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $24,480–$32,283, 26 MPG, seating 5, the Kia Optima S sits in the budget-friendly tier of the sedan market. Value lands at 7.3/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 6 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2020 Kia Optima S, but it needs the right buyer. and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2020 Kia Optima S ranks #687 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 48% of the segment. Its 7.4/10 overall score is 0.1 points below the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $24,480 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $27,664 by about 12%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Optima S Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2017 Kia Optima S scores 7.3/10 — within striking distance of the 2020's 7.4 — and starts roughly $2,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2020 Kia Optima S
Is the 2020 Kia Optima S reliable?
We rate the 2020 Kia Optima S's reliability 7.4/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class.
Is the 2020 Kia Optima S worth buying?
It scores 7.4/10 overall, ranking #687 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 48% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2020 Kia Optima S cost?
The 2020 Kia Optima S starts at $24,480 and ranges up to $32,283 across trims (MSRP when new). At 26 MPG, expect roughly $2,019/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Optima S years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 6 Optima S model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.5/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Kia Optima S
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Similar Sedan to Consider
Other sedans at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
