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2008 KIA OPTIMA

5 trims available · 23–25 MPG · 162–185 HP

Standout Trims

2008 HIGHLIGHTS

Best Value

LX

$16,355 MSRP

MyCar Score™66.9Look Up VIN →
Best Fuel Economy

LX

25 MPG combined

MyCar Score™66.9Look Up VIN →
Most Powerful

LX

185 HP

MyCar Score™66.2Look Up VIN →

Full History Report

Buying a 2008 Kia Optima?

3 recalls have been issued for this model year. Check its history before you buy.

A vehicle history report shows accidents, ownership history, and service records.

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Trim Levels

ALL 2008 KIA OPTIMA TRIMS

LX

Top Rated
MyCar Score™66.9

Body

Sedan

MPG

25

HP

162

Seats

5

MSRP

$16,355

Drive

front wheel drive

Look Up VIN →

LX

MyCar Score™66.6

Body

Sedan

MPG

25

HP

162

Seats

5

MSRP

$17,750

Drive

front wheel drive

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EX

MyCar Score™66.4

Body

Sedan

MPG

25

HP

162

Seats

5

MSRP

$19,495

Drive

front wheel drive

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LX

MyCar Score™66.2

Body

Sedan

MPG

23

HP

185

Seats

5

MSRP

$19,445

Drive

front wheel drive

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EX

MyCar Score™66.1

Body

Sedan

MPG

23

HP

185

Seats

5

MSRP

$20,500

Drive

front wheel drive

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At a Glance

KEY SPECS

Body Type

Sedan

MPG Range

23–25 MPG

HP Range

162–185 HP

Seating

Up to 5

Fuel Type

regular unleaded

Drive Type

front wheel drive

Specs: NHTSA vPIC databaseSafety: NHTSA Complaints & RecallsFuel economy: EPAMyCar Score™: mycarneedsthis.com independent rating

Dimensions & Comfort

SPACE & COMFORT

Based on the top-rated 2008 Optima trim.

Exterior Dimensions

Length

186.4 in

Width

71.1 in

Height

58.3 in

Wheelbase

107.1 in

Interior Dimensions

Front Headroom

39.8 in

Front Legroom

43.7 in

Rear Headroom

38 in

Rear Legroom

37.8 in

Cargo & Capacity

Cargo Space

14.8 cu ft

Curb Weight

3,142 lbs

Safety & Warranty

PROTECTION & COVERAGE

Safety Ratings

2008 Kia Optima 4-DR w/SAB

NHTSA Overall

Not tested by NHTSA

Frontal Crash

Not tested by NHTSA

Side Crash

Not tested by NHTSA

Side Pole

Not tested by NHTSA

Rollover

Not tested by NHTSA

Open Recalls

3 recalls

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program. nhtsa.gov/ratings

Warranty Coverage

Basic Coverage

5 yr./ 60000 mi.

Drivetrain

10 yr./ 100000 mi.

Roadside Assistance

5 yr./ 60000 mi.

Family & Safety

IS THIS A GOOD FAMILY CAR?

Rear Seat Space

Comfortable

Rear headroom: 38

Rear legroom: 37.8

Car Seat Usability

  • Rear-facing car seat friendly

Always have car seat installation checked by a certified technician. Find an inspection station near you →

LATCH System

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) is required on all US vehicles from 2003 onward.

LATCH anchors required

Cargo & Stroller Space

14.8 cu ft

Fits most compact strollers

Common Questions

2008 KIA OPTIMA FAQ

How many recalls does a 2008 Kia Optima have?

The 2008 Kia Optima has 3 recalls on record with NHTSA. Always verify current recall status at nhtsa.gov before purchasing.

What is the fuel economy of a 2008 Kia Optima?

The 2008 Kia Optima gets 23–25 MPG combined depending on trim level and drivetrain configuration.

What is the best 2008 Kia Optima trim to buy used?

Based on MyCar Score™ ratings, the LX trim scores highest at 66.9 out of 100, balancing value, fuel economy, and specifications.

Is the 2008 Kia Optima a good used car?

The 2008 Kia Optima has an average MyCar Score™ of 66 out of 100. MyCar Score™ weighs NHTSA safety ratings, recall history, fuel economy, and value. This is a competitive score for the segment.

How much does a 2008 Kia Optima cost used?

New MSRP for the 2008 Kia Optima ranged from $16,355 to $20,500. Used prices vary by mileage, trim, and condition — run a free VIN lookup to check a specific vehicle.