2012 Kia Optima: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2012 Kia Optima is a light equipment update, not a redesign. The headline change is that the LX gains several standard exterior convenience features, while the rest of the lineup receives smaller equipment adjustments.

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About the 2012 Kia Optima

Second-generation U.S. Optima sedan, second model year after the all-new 2011 redesign; the Optima Hybrid is also in its second year.

Kia sold the Optima as a midsize family sedan for shoppers who wanted something more stylish than the usual class norm. The brand's pitch centered on a sleek, coupe-like shape, a cabin that felt more upscale than many mainstream rivals, and strong value through generous feature content. Across the range, the Optima's core identity was roomy, everyday transportation with standout design, with gas, turbo, and hybrid versions letting buyers lean toward efficiency or performance without leaving the same basic formula.

The LX is the straightforward version, with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and useful everyday equipment. The comfort-focused EX adds leather, push-button start, and dual-zone climate control, while the SX stands out with a turbo engine, sport-tuned suspension, and more aggressive body trim. The Hybrid focuses on fuel economy with a gas-electric system, unique gauges, and aerodynamic exterior details.

What changed, by category

Styling

LX gains standard fog lights, heated mirrors, automatic headlights, and chrome-accented exterior door handles. EX gains standard LED taillights plus wood and metal cabin trim. Gas-powered trims also receive a revised center-stack finish.

Tech

On the Hybrid, the power driver’s seat and rearview camera move from standard equipment to optional equipment.

2012 Kia Optima specs and features by trim

Feature	2012 Kia OptimaEX3 in stock	2012 Kia OptimaLX0 in stock	2012 Kia OptimaSX1 in stock	2012 Kia OptimaHybrid0 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter	4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.4 Liter
Transmission	Auto, 6-Spd Sportmatic	Auto, 6-Spd Sportmatic	Auto, 6-Spd Sportmatic	Automatic, 6-Spd
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD	FWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas	Hybrid
MPG City	22–24 mpg	24 mpg	22 mpg	34 mpg
MPG Highway	34–35 mpg	35 mpg	34 mpg	39 mpg
Horsepower	200–274 hp	200 hp	274 hp	206 hp
Torque	186–269 lb-ft	186 lb-ft	269 lb-ft	154 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo	15.4 cu-ft	15.4 cu-ft	15.4 cu-ft	9.9 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	34.7 in	34.7 in	34.7 in	34.7 in
Seats	5	5	5	5
Doors	4	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Alarm System
Automatic Leveling Headlights
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
HID Headlights
LED Tail Lights
Panorama Moon Roof
Power Folding Exterior Mirrors
Rear Spoiler
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Satellite Radio
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror
Cooled Seats
Dual Power Front Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Folding Rear Seat
Rear Air Conditioning
Heated Front Seats
Heated Rear Seats
Heated Steering Wheel
Integrated Garage Door Opener
Leather Seats
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Memory Driver's Seat
Power Driver Seat
Power Windows
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Start
Wood Interior Trim

How the 2013 Kia Optima compares

The biggest change for the 2013 Kia Optima is its revised hybrid system, which delivers more torque, better fuel economy, and more trunk space. Gas models receive lighter updates, led by the new luxury-focused SXL trim.

See the full 2013 changes

Frequently asked questions

What changed on the 2012 Kia Optima compared with the 2011 model?

The 2012 Optima receives a light equipment update. LX gains several standard exterior convenience features, EX gets upgraded lighting and cabin trim, gas-powered models receive a revised center-stack finish, and two Hybrid features move from standard to optional.

Was the 2012 Kia Optima redesigned?

No, the 2012 Kia Optima was not redesigned. It is the second model year of the generation introduced for 2011, and its updates are limited mainly to equipment and trim details.

What did the 2012 Kia Optima LX gain?

The 2012 Optima LX gains standard fog lights, heated outside mirrors, automatic headlights, and chrome-accented exterior door handles. Its regular 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine carries over.

What changed on the 2012 Kia Optima EX?

The 2012 Optima EX gains standard LED taillights along with wood and metal interior trim. It also shares the revised center-stack finish fitted to gas-powered Optima models.

Did the 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid change?

The 2012 Optima Hybrid keeps the same basic gas-electric hardware, but its power driver’s seat and rearview camera move from standard equipment to optional equipment. There is no major Hybrid powertrain update for this year.