Saturday, August 8, 2015

Kia Optima Stands Strong As New Generation Waits In The Wings

I’m going to do this review – 2015 Kia Optima – with an eye to the future.

Just five years off a redesign for the 2011 model year, Kia’s midsize sedan will mark another new generation when 2016 models arrive in the fourth quarter. That’s something to look forward to, but in the meantime the Korean car maker has some enticing offers on the current model – from $1,500 cash back to 0 percent financing.

The 2015 Kia has a couple faults, but stands out in this me-too segment for its sharp styling inside and out. Next-generation UVO e-services debuted this year with new features such as geo-fencing, driving score, speed and curfew alerts.

That along with other high-end options such as heated and cooled seats, surround sound, and advanced safety systems make for another plus.

The 2015 boasts two 4-liter engines: a 192-horsepower 2.4-liter plant and a 2.0-liter turbo rated at 274 hp. Both are strong movers for this class coupled with a smooth and responsive 6-speed automatic transmission.

But while combined fuel ratings of 27 and 24 may have good when the current generation debuted, they lag today’s leaders.

The 2016 will offer buyers three engine choices, including a new 1.6-liter 178-hp turbo mated to a new 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. And Kia says the returning engines are being retuned for better fuel economy and performance. Statistics, however, have yet to be released.

A long warranty and value pricing continues to be hallmarks for Kia, the Optima no exception. The 2015 bases from $22,525, including destination, making it one of the lowest-priced midsize rides. Again, no word yet on 2016 pricing.

You also get a long run of standards, a cooled glove box, heated mirrors, cruise control, power controls, and remote locking.

In addition to the fuel numbers, the other criticism of the current generation is lack of headroom in back, partly due to the Optima’s raked profile.

Looking at the stats, the 2016 gains all around in exterior dimensions. As for the interior, it’s always been roomy, except for headroom, which will gain .6 inches in the redesign. Kia also touts added cargo capacity.

Some new features may not arrive immediately, but Kia says Optima is the pilot for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which will add another level of smartphone apps. Messaging, navigation and phone calls will be available via the display screen, steering wheel of voice commands.

Michael Sprague, executive vice president of sales and marketing, says, “The all-new Optima retains the signature personality of its predecessor, but we’ve literally improved everything, providing more space, better ride and handling, more technology and greater refinement.”

The makeover promises to make Optima a top competitor once again. In the meantime, the 2015 may be just the ticket for buyers looking for a good deal on an outgoing generation that’s still a decent choice.

Kia Optima

Midsize sedan

Base price: $22,525

MPG: 23/34, 2.4-liter; 20/31, 2.0-liter turbo

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: 5 of 5 stars for front impact; 5 for side; 5 for rollover resistance; www.safercar.gov

Web: www.kia.com

Competitors: Buick Regal, Chevrolet Malibu, Chrysler 200, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda6, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry, Subaru Legacy

Bottom line: Current generation has a couple faults, but power and styling keep it a contender

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