Kia Optima will be one of those rare cars that looks as good in the driveway 10 years on as it does now. Truth be told, all deliver reasonable fuel economy, with base LX models returning 24 mpg city, 35 mpg highway and the turbo models rated at 22 mpg city, 34 mpg highway. We like the fact that most Optima models can be ordered with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, since manuals boost the fun factor of any car.
Ride quality can be on the firm side; together with the car’s independent suspension and nicely-tuned electric steering, the Optima comes across as more sporting than its sibling the Hyundai Sonata. In fact, the Optima is more engaging than most sedans in its price range, giving buyers one more reason to add the brand to their candidate list.
The Optima comes with a surprising amount of feature content, in all trim levels. Even the high-volume EX models get features like dual-zone climate control and keyless entry, with available options like a panoramic sunroof and an Infinity audio system.
Interior design is best described as “modern minimalist,” but we mean that in a positive way. There’s no clutter in the cabin, and the controls sweep toward the driver to give a cockpit-like feel. Base models come with seats wrapped in sturdy fabric, while more upscale Optimas get leather seating surfaces.
Front seats provide generous head and leg room, with rear seats delivering a reasonable amount of leg room. We like the fact that the Optima offers heated seats to both front and rear passengers, an option sometimes missing in cars costing two or three time the Kia’s price.
The 2013 Kia Optima is a safe car, too, with 2012 models earning top safety scores from the NHTSA and the IIHS. Though 2013 models haven’t been tested, there are no significant design differences between the two years, so the latest models should perform identically.
-Courtesy of Green Car Reports
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