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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