2018 Kia Optima

Overview

The affordable Optima's handsome exterior is supplemented by several powertrains, including a workaday base engine, two turbocharged versions, and two hybrid options. Every model is available with the latest active-safety and infotainment features. In fact, the Kia suffers few negatives—other than having excellent competitors that have virtually perfected the family-sedan formula. Still, the Optima is an attractive, capable car that will satisfy most most buyers looking for a mid-size sedan.

What's New for 2018?

The Optima gets some minor updates for 2018. A 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto replaces the old 5.0-inch unit, which lacked smartphone integration. The SXL model has been discontinued; its top-of-the-line features are now offered as the Limited package on SX trim. The Optima also adds a new S model, which wears sporty exterior bits and is available with a panoramic sunroof. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid only have minor color and trim changes.

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Pricing

Original MSRP:

• LX: $23,495
• S: $24,495
• EX: $26,595
• SX: $31,495

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Optima lineup includes a wide array of powertrains, and our opinion varies as much as the order sheet. The naturally aspirated 2.4-liter 185-hp four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission found in the Optima’s LX and EX trims make up a workaday powertrain. It's sometimes slow to react to inputs and a little coarse in its upper ranges. We much prefer the smoother and quicker combination of the 178-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The range-topping 245-hp 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder is refined and pleasing but less powerful and significantly slower from zero to 60 mph than its direct competitors. There are also fuel-efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains available. On the road, the Optima is capable, polished, and stands up reasonably well to spirited driving. It’s simply not on the same level as the best in this class, though. On challenging pavement, it loses its composure a few ticks before standouts like the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry.

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, and prices ramp up steeply for the better-outfitted trim levels. The base LX has a six-speaker sound system, cloth seating surfaces, manually adjustable driver’s seat, and manual climate controls. Moving up through the trim levels adds features like heated and ventilated leather seating, a 10-speaker premium sound system, 12-way power adjustable driver's seat with memory, and dual-zone climate control. The Optima's rear seat is the least spacious among its closest competitors. Its ability to haul cargo is as good as any sedan in its class, although the hybrid models sacrifice cargo space to their battery packs. Front-seat storage is as good as any rival, but there are fewer nooks in the rear seat.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Kia’s UVO infotainment system includes a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen that comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and six-speaker audio. Buyers can upgrade to an 8.0-inch screen, navigation and a premium sound system, but a Wi-Fi hotspot is still unavailable. UVO is simple and easy to use, and there are plenty of power ports to go around.

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.