my aunt has a 2011 Kia optima. she lives in Korea so she doesn't drive much. so far she has no complaints about it but it has lower mileage compared to a North American car. but if you live in not America remember, they have a 10 year 100k mile warranty so in the first 10 years they are not endless money pits. but nowadays the Hyundai/ Kia to Toyota honda price gap isn't huge for the base models so I would get an accord or a Camry if I drive more than 100k in 10 years.

Er... The ones in the late 2000's were decent though minor problems they were somewhat reliable. The ones 2010+ are realy really bad they are made in US with faulty engines which have GDI and Turbo's. I would stay away specifically from the 2010-2015 models.

If you’re thinking about buying a new one, don’t do it. You’re better off with a naturally aspirated Camry. 

If you’re thinking about buying used, they’re worth practically nothing as their quality is nowhere near an equivalent Camry or Accord. 

I own a 2013 Kia Soul !.  We looked at the Optima but decided to go with the Soul for how we travel, mostly local and a long trip is only a few hundred miles. 

The Kia quality and service to solve any problems has been good.  I usually buy "up-graded" cars instead of cheaper, stripped down models.  Bigger motor and auto trans.  I figure that if my body ain't comfy there is no way I will be happy with anything else.

Asking about a Kia on a "Toyota" forum ? Maybe all you'll get is a bunch of unqualified personal opinions that say "Buy Toyota" ?

Check the following link if you want some objective info:

https://www.carcomplaints.com/Kia/Optima/