Hyundai Sonata vs Kia Optima
The Hyundai Sonata and the Kia Optima are rated the same on fuel economy: 27 MPG combined. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Hyundai Sonata | Kia Optima | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 2,283 | 1,264 |
| Most reported problem | Engine | Engine |
| Crashes and fires | 86 and 165 | 37 and 120 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 80,000 miles | 80,000 miles |
| Recalls | 8 | 5 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 27 MPG | 27 MPG |
| City and highway | 24 and 34 | 24 and 34 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,500 | $2,500 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 2,283 complaints for the Hyundai Sonata and 1,264 for the Kia Optima. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
NHTSA's overall safety ratings: 5 stars for the Hyundai Sonata, 5 stars for the Kia Optima.
Safety recalls on file: 8 for the Hyundai Sonata, 5 for the Kia Optima.