The Kia Optima exemplifies the South Korean brand's transition from bargain-basement oddity to serious market-wide contender. And for 2018, the Optima continues to stand toe-to-toe with anything in the midsize sedan segment in exterior and cabin aesthetics, standard and optional equipment and on-road performance, feel, and fuel economy.
What's New for 2018
Kia is introducing a sporty Optima S with the base 2.4-liter engine and killing last year's range-topping model, the SX Limited, instead offering a Limited Package on the turbocharged SX. Lesser changes include a standard seven-inch UVO infotainment system, blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert, and rear parking assist on all models. Individual trims receive minor equipment tweaks.
Choosing Your Kia Optima
Apart from the Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models that are covered elsewhere, the front-wheel drive Optima sedan is available with one of three four-cylinder engines coupled to either a six-speed automatic or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The base engine is a naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter inline-four that puts out 185 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque through a six-speed automatic. EPA ratings vary slightly over the three trim levels in which it’s offered, from 25 miles per gallon city, 36 mpg highway and 29 mpg combined in the entry-level LX and 24/34/28 in the better-equipped Optima S and EX trims.
Those seeking greater fuel-efficiency will find it in the center of the Optima range. As its name implies, the LX 1.6T features a 178-hp 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The smaller, turbocharged engine and efficient seven-speed dual-clutch transmission return EPA ratings of 28/37/31.
The peak of the Optima line in both price and power is the SX 2.0T. While the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four coupled to a six-speed automatic loses in the EPA game at 22/31/25, it does so while producing an impressive 245 hp and 260 lb-ft. Unsurprisingly, it's the quickest and fastest of the bunch.
The Optima line comprises five trim levels:
Unsurprisingly, the range-topping SX 2.0T is the best of the bunch, and can be had with everything Kia offers, including many SX exclusives. But premium products come with premium price tags, and the SX is no different. Those looking to save money both at sale time and at the pump should look hard at the new S 2.4L model as for not much more than the base model you get access to its unique sport-oriented packages and features otherwise found only on the apex SX. As with last year, though, the EX remains the best value in the Optima range.