2008 Kia Optima Safety Review [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 28 Optima reviews and test drives.
Safety - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Kia Optima features plenty of standard crash protection equipment, including air bags all around. Somewhat lacking in accident avoidance features, the Optima does receive excellent scores in government crash tests.
The Optima's performance in crash tests is a testament to its wide range of safety equipment. In government crash tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2008 model received five-star ratings for both the driver and passenger in frontal tests, and five-star ratings for the front and rear seats in side crash tests. It also receives a four-star rollover rating.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2008 Optima the highest rating, "Good" in frontal offset tests, but it has not conducted side impact tests on the new Optima.
Accident Avoidance
Reviewers generally find the Optima lacking in active safety equipment. Antilock brakes, traction control, brake assist, and electronic stability control are just optional on the EX and LX base model with a V6, and aren't even available on the four-cylinder LX base model. "Why should buyers of the low-end Optima miss out on these important safety features?" About.com asks. "That's just not right."
On the requisite models, the missing features are available with the Electronic Stability Control package. On the plus side, Auto Mall USA calls the package "remarkably affordable." A tire pressure monitoring system is standard on all models.
Crash Protection
About.com calls passive safety "an Optima strong point." Standard equipment includes dual front advanced air bags, dual front seat-mounted side air bags, full-length side curtain air bags, three-point seat belts in the front and rear, front seat-belt pretensionsers, front and rear crumple zones, an energy-absorbing steering column, impact-absorbing door unlocking, and side-impact door beams. Of the standard full-length side-curtain air bags, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram notes "With most competing vehicles, these air bags, which are important for occupant protection in side-impact accidents and rollovers, are either optional or not even available."
