'13 Kia Optima - or '15 Ford Focus?

[MCompact]

Back in 2013 I drove a new Optima(to score a $25 Visa gift card from Kia). I was very impressed overall.

 

[4WD]

Really heavy on the engine complaints … but guess the engine would have been changed under warranty …
Would a carfax reveal … ?

 

[53' Stude]

Originally Posted by Linctex
I've been looking at a 2015 Ford Focus (DOHC, 2.9L DGI) hatchback with 71,000 miles for $8,400. It's at a large, high-volume dealer in Texas.

When I mentioned this to a friend of mine, he said his (recently deceased) Father-in-law's car is for sale:
2013 Kia Optima LX with only 17,000 original miles. (He sent pics - the man never even drove this car in the rain) - $10,000 in perfect shape.

It's been many years since I have done any car shopping. I'm not interested in any "high-tech" features.
I really don't want a GDI engine, so I'm stepping lightly with this decision (but there's few alternatives)

This is something I'll likely drive to the 250,000 mile mark.


While I don't think I could go wrong either way - - which one would you choose, and why?
Tell me all the dirt!

Thanks, Everyone!


Neither one. Focus had numerous trans problems. Older as in 2009-2011 Focus had better auto trans. Coworker had same year Optima and it blew up other day and it's under recall too. I would not recommend either of the cars you are looking at

 

[JHZR2]

17k vs 71k? No brainer, go with the Kia.

 

[csandste]

Problem with Kia's is that the engine failure is spectacular-- plus some recall fixes to the 2.4 engine didn't replace the full enclosed kit turning the fuel pump into a flame thrower. The Focus's problems were more widespread and would still total the car. I'd get the Kia-- better car, lower mileage, and if the recall was done you should get the warranty. The actual on-fire incidents are something like .0002%-- just colorful when it happens. Park where you can get the passenger door open and enjoy.

My girlfriend paid $12,300 last year for a '17 Optima LX with about 40K on it. No problems what so ever.

 

[4WD]

Well … You saying there might be more choices on the lots besides these two ?

 

[Linctex]

Originally Posted by 4WD

Would a carfax reveal … ?


Elderly fella in his late 80's owned it.

It's never even been driven in the rain.

 

[Linctex]

Originally Posted by 53' Stude
Coworker had same year Optima and it blew up other day and it's under recall too. I would not recommend either of the cars you are looking at.


Well........ If the engine goes "Tango Uniform" any time before the year 2028 (15 years) I'll just get a new engine for it, for... FREE!
I can always drive one of my other 7 vehicles in a pinch while the car is at the Kia dealership.

 

[Linctex]

Originally Posted by csandste
My girlfriend paid $12,300 last year for a '17 Optima LX with about 40K on it.


That sounds like an even better deal..... maybe I should keep looking?

 

[Andrew1972]

I would not touch a recent Focus with a 10' pole.

 

[53' Stude]

Originally Posted by madRiver
I would not touch a recent Focus with a 10' pole.



Exactly, not worth the hassle

 

[MCompact]

I'd take a Focus RS, but that's it.

 

[Coastie05]

Definitely go with the Kia!

 

[JustinH]

The kia is much larger and will be more comfortable.