Kia Optima's first-generation effort debuted in 2001; a competitively priced mid-size, but did little to stand out from a cadre of plentiful mid-size sedans. It wasn't until the 2011 third-generation that sales took off because customers took notice thanks to a stylish, low-slung exterior with a dash of European-inspired elegance. In the 2016 model year, a fourth-generation debuts continuing successful styling cues while adding a surprisingly peppy turbo charged four -cylinder gas engine.
Optima represents Kia's best-selling model in America, narrowly besting the off-beat compact Kia squared-off five-door Soul hatchback. The South Korean-based automaker began selling vehicles in the U.S. back in 1994 and during the 2015 calendar year, sold its six-millionth vehicle in the U.S.
This next generation, front-wheel-drive effort measures about a half-inch longer and one inch wider than last year.
All trims include satellite radio, Bluetooth wireless technology working in tandem with portable electronics and several plug-in ports keeping Optima very connected with an ever-wired world. Also returning is UVO (an acronym of 'Your Voice') infotainment, Kia's own non-subscription eService. Apple and Android mobile devices connect up with the center multi-function touch screen utilizing voice commands.
Eye-pleasing visual exterior cues include chrome-like strip framing beginning at the base of the front A-pillar and continuing to frame the top windows, eventually ending at the rear window's base, accenting the low-slung roof. Narrow headlight housing stretches from the edge of the stretched, narrow honeycomb front grille well onto the fender region. Tail lights also utilize the wrap-around effect while incorporating light emitting diode (LED) accents. Each front fender sports a narrow chrome-like arrow-head port. Both side-view mirrors include blinker bands acting as secondary turn signal indicators.
The rather plentiful number trim level selections include entry LX, LX turbo, EX, SX turbo, and top-trim SLX. Three available four-cylinder engines (one more than last year) include a new-to-Optima 1.6-liter turbocharged four motivating 178 horses and teamed with Kia's first-ever fuel saving seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This all-new 1.6-liter turbo and new seven-speed automatic is designated exclusively for the 'LX turbo' trim, this week's tester adding a welcome dimension.
Past generations offered average-at-best fuel economy numbers compared to mid-size rivals, but this new 1.6-liter turbo generates highway estimates tickling 40 mpg, a notable upgrade.
Two returning powertrains include a second available turbo charged four cylinder, a 2.0-liter delivering 247 horses and a naturally aspirated (non turbo) 2.4-liter four cylinder checking in with 185 horses; both mate to a six-speed automatic transmission. Optima dropped a V-6 alternative five years ago, opting instead to beef up their four-cylinder offerings.
All engines utilize regular, 87-ocate fuel to fill the nicely sized 18.5 gallon tank. The new 1.6-liter turbo registers an impressive 28 miles per gallon city and 39 mpg highway, besting the naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter by six miles city and seven highway.
Both SX and SLX trims include the larger 2.0-liter turbo engine standard, along with a sports-tuned suspension and steering wheel paddle shifters. The naturally-aspirated four powers EX and base LX.
Turbochargers run off of recycled exhaust gases to spin a pinwheel-inspired turbine helping to pump a higher concentration of air into engine cylinders. Turbocharging pimps up horsepower without adding cylinders all helping boost fuel economy.
Kia also offers a gas-electric hybrid version of Optima combining the 2.4-liter gas engine with an electric motor enabling Optima to reach 40 miles per gallon highway.
However, it's a carryover from the 2015 model year and based on the Gen Three platform. It's the only gas-electric technology available in the South Korean automaker's lineup.
Our entry LX trim with 1.6-liter turbo engine listed at $23,990 with a $2,600 technology package, the bottom line ended at $27,415 after $825 destination charge. The tech package includes dual-zone climate control, in-dash navigation and electronic audio alert safety features such blind sport detection, rear cross traffic alert and rear parking assist.
The attractive, two-tone dash is well designed and easily interpretable at a glance with little guess work involved. In front resides a reservoir with convenient retractable cover home to a couple 12-volt power outlets, auxiliary port and iPod plug-in. The housing accommodates small portable devices, which can be kept out of sight thanks to the sliding top.
Kia's Optima sedan and its mid-size Sorrento crossover call West Point Georgia there assembly home; a facility Kia opened for business in late 2009 in a region once known for textile production. The facility, near the Alabama state line midway between Atlanta, Georgia and Montgomery, Alabama , represents Kia's sole U.S. assembly plant.
The three-spoke, manually tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel includes cruise control at 3 o'clock and secondary audio controls at 9 o'clock.
The simplistic instrument panel includes two large circular gauges backlit in white with red-glowing needles. The right side speedometer includes a half-moon fuel gauge insert along the bottom. In between the analogs is digital 4.3-inch meter cluster with tutorial panels controlled via the steering wheel's right side mixed in among the cruise control buttons.
Dual zone climate arrangements include two circular temperature control dials flanking two rows of well identified (with words and icons) buttons monitoring fan speed, direction and front/rear defrosters. A row of well identified audio buttons resides above with twist knobs (volume station select) at each end.
With the lower-slung roof, headroom could be an issue for some outside the 90th percentile. No issue with my six-foot two-frame, but those with three or four inches of added height will want to test drive the headroom. Seating in back accommodates three riders. If only two, a center arm rest with dual beverage holders folds down from the center backrest. The entire 60/40 split folds down onto cushions once trunk-located pull tabs get a work out. Row two travelers also have access to a 12-volt outlet and plug-in port.
The electronic push start button is dashboard bound, right of the steering column in all trims sans the 2.4-liter naturally aspirated LX. The spacious 15.9 cubic-foot trunk includes two top-side goose-neck style hinges, but no spare tire, temporary or regular sized, under the flat floor board (temporary spares come standard only in SX and SXL trims). Many automakers now opt for a repair kit rather than temporary spare or donut to cut cost and overall vehicle weight.
The center column, ever-so-gently, skews towards the driver. Cloth seating is an LX staple with Leatherette-type occupies the top three trims. Three driving modes (normal, sport, eco), standard in all trims, access from a push-button aft of the floor-mounted transmission shifter.
The topping for Kia and its parent company Hyundai lies in the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty; the longest available from an automotive manufacturer. The idea worked so well in attaining and retaining customers, other automakers 'borrowed' the marketing idea, including Mitsubishi.
'Pleasant' best describes Optima's overall driving characteristics as a competent daily vehicle. Blind spots are minimalized and drivers enjoy good road views. The new 1.6-liter engine is a competent addition.
2016 Kia OptimaPrice as tested: $27,415
Wheelbase: 110.4 inches
Length: 191.1 inches
Width: 73.2 inches
Height: 57.7 inches
Engine: 1.6-liter gas-turbo engine
Horsepower: 178
Curb weight: 3,224 pounds
Powertrain warranty: 10 years/100,000 miles
City/Highway economy: 28 mpg city/39 mpg highway
Assembly: West Point, Georgia