2017 Kia Optima

Overview

All signs point to the fact that we have left the age of the sedan and entered the era of the SUV and crossover. Despite the wandering attention of the car-buying public, the contenders in the mid-size sedan segment continue to put up a good show. Not only are there a handful of truly good cars in this class, but nearly every model lineup features several powertrains, often running the gamut from thrifty hybrids to powerful V-6s. The 2017 Kia Optima has one of the most diverse model lineups of the bunch, boasting five—count ’em, five—separate powertrains, including two hybrids. It also has a stately exterior design. That the Optima isn’t one of our very favorites in this class speaks more to the excellence of others (including the Honda Accord and the Mazda 6) than it does to any glaring problems in the Kia. There are, of course, deficiencies—the hybrids could be more efficient, the performance and handling a bit stronger—but on the whole, the Optima is a thoughtfully conceived and well-executed package.

What's New for 2017?

The Optima gained a new plug-in hybrid model for 2017, which has 202 horsepower and an EPA-rated 29 miles of electric-only range. The conventional hybrid model has a fresh powertrain this year, too, with a 2.0-liter engine replacing the outgoing 2.4-liter four-cylinder. Non-hybrid Optimas see scant changes for 2017, with a mostly carry-over year following the car’s total redesign in 2016. The minor tweaks include the availability of the Driver Convenience and Convenience Plus packages in the LX trim, which can add a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, blind-spot monitoring, and rear parking sensors to the Optima’s entry-level trim. A Premium Plus package for EX models brings heated rear seats, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard on SX models for 2017, as are adaptive headlamps.

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Pricing

Original MSRP:

• Optima LX: $23,095
• Optima EX: $26,335
• Optima Hybrid: $26,890
• Optima SX: $30,83
• Optima Hybrid EX: $31,885
• Optima Plug-In Hybrid EX: $36,105

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Optima’s lineup includes a wide array of powertrains, and our opinions are as mixed as the option sheet. From the uninspired entry-level engine to the complex but ultimately unsatisfying hybrid powertrains, plus the pair of zippy turbo fours, there’s a lot to like and some things to complain about. The naturally aspirated 2.4-liter engine and six-speed automatic transmission found in the Optima's LX and EX trims make up a workaday powertrain, quick enough but sometimes flat-footed and coarse when coaxed into its upper ranges. We much prefer the less powerful—but smoother and quicker—turbocharged 1.6-liter and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic combination that represents the second rung in the Optima’s powertrain ladder. The line-topping turbo 2.0-liter is refined and pleasing, though less powerful and significantly slower to 60 mph than its direct competitors. The Optima plug-in variant can charge at either a 120-volt or 240-volt outlet. A full charge requires roughly nine hours on standard 120-volt current and less than three hours on 240 volts. Despite its many available powertrains and trim iterations, the Optima is a focused, polished automobile that stands up reasonably well to spirited driving. It’s simply not on the same level as the best in this class, however.

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Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Optima’s interior can be very nice, but it can also be very Spartan. Keep in mind, the price ramps up steeply for better-outfitted trim levels. What’s more, the rear seat is one of the least spacious among competitors. The top-spec Optima SX Limited comes with a Harman/Kardon 10-speaker, 630-watt premium sound system, a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory, Nappa leather seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The base LX trim has a non-branded six-speaker sound system, an eight-way manually adjustable driver’s seat with no memory settings, cloth seating surfaces, and manual climate controls. The Optima’s worthiness as a cargo hauler depends entirely on which model you choose. While the regular model is as good a pack animal as any sedan in this class, the hybrid variants sacrifice cargo space to their bulky battery packs. That holds true for the plug-in model, too.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

Kia’s UVO infotainment system is simple and easy to use, and there are plenty of power ports that come with it. Buyers will have to opt into one of the top two trim levels or pay for various packages before they can enjoy the 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system found in our EX test car. Entry-level LX Optimas have a tiny 5.0-inch touchscreen infotainment display, while EX models come with a 7.0-inch LCD display controlled by a mix of buttons and knobs. Both systems are user-friendly but not particularly impressive. An 8.0-inch touchscreen display is available in the LX with the 1.6-liter engine and EX, and comes standard on the SX. If we had to live with one every day, we’d scrounge together the cash for the 8.0-inch unit.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)

View Crash Test Results

For more information about the Kia Optima’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.