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Kia Optima Phev: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2020 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2017 (74/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2017 74 · 2018 73

Years to approach with caution

2013 36

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202064/100
Unproven

1 complaints · 0 recalls

201964/100
Unproven

1 complaints · 0 recalls

201873/100
Buy

228 complaints · 2 recalls

201774/100
Buybest year

252 complaints · 3 recalls

201656/100
Caution

748 complaints · 5 recalls

201549/100
Caution

1,000 complaints · 4 recalls · Park-it recall

201450/100
Caution

578 complaints · 7 recalls · Park-it recall

201336/100
Avoid

1,371 complaints · 9 recalls · Park-it recall

201256/100
Caution

916 complaints · 5 recalls · Park-it recall

201164/100
Caution

590 complaints · 5 recalls · Park-it recall

Zeroing in on the 2017?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2017 Kia Optima Phev’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2020 Kia Optima Phev head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Kia Optima Phev as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.