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| The Optima has been one of my favorite cars for awhile now. It was redesigned for the 2016 model year, although at first glance, you may say to yourself "looks the same to me". I quite like this Horizon Blue color. |
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| Personally, my favorite style of the Optima was the 2011-2013 version. I feel that the rear lights had a more distinctive look, and the front on the 2014 & 2015 models had cues (such as rectangular fog lights) that didn't quite match the car's design as well. |
The midsized sedan segment isn’t vanishing anytime soon, despite an apparent culture shift towards SUVs. Kia has consistently been aiming for all its key
competitors in this category with the Optima. Since its stylish 2011 redesign,
this model has been one of my favorites from the brand because it has a nice
mix of value, features, and quality. Come 2016, it was time to redesign the
Optima again, although it was more “evolutionary” than “revolutionary”. Perhaps
one of the most interesting changes to this model was the addition of the “Eco”
model with a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch
transmission. My tester was a 2016 LX Eco with the LX Technology Package in
Horizon Blue with black cloth. My test drive took place at McDonald Kia in
Saginaw, Michigan. How does this eco-minded model stack up overall? Let’s
explore!
Better Optimized
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| 2001 Kia Optima |
Originally introduced in the U.S.
for the 2000 model year, the Optima nameplate has come a long way. In
particular, I feel that two trims in the Optima’s lineup show off its
progression well: the Eco and the top-of-the-line SXL. As mentioned previously,
the Optima Eco comes with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired
to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This set up is good for 178
horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. EPA fuel economy estimates are a solid
28 city/37 highway/31 combined. This engine felt energetic once rolling and was
reasonably smooth, too. I managed to chirp the wheels on takeoff once, and I
wasn’t even in “Sport” mode for most of my test drive. The other two available
drive modes are “Normal” and “Eco”, and all will change throttle and
transmission response. Speaking of transmission, the 7-speed dual-clutch feels
mostly sorted out, however, there was some noticeable turbo lag on takeoffs at
times. This could be due to the transmission programming (in part), as a
dual-clutch is known to have odd feeling shifts when compared to a traditional
automatic. Something to consider if you’re looking at a car equipped with a
dual-clutch.
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| Optima's styling this time around is more evolutionary than revolutionary, but still distinctive enough in a few ways, such as the chrome trim that flows from the front window down to the rear of the car. These Eco models are not particularly common from what I've noticed. |
When pushed, the Optima Eco will do
0-60 in roughly 7 to 8 seconds, depending on conditions. But I’ve seen times
also in the high 6 second range, so I imagine it depends on how broken in the
engine is. That means that the Optima Eco is potentially quicker than the Optima
SXL with the larger 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder! This is due to a multitude
of reasons. The Eco is roughly 300 pounds lighter than the SXL, and the 2.0
turbo is actually down on power this time around – going from making 274
horsepower during the 2011-2015 model years to 245. According to Kia, the engine
is more efficient and has its power more evenly distributed across a broader
range, despite this power drop. But alas, our focus here is primarily on the
Eco trim.
Step Inside! Enjoy the Ride!
In a market dominated by many
bread-and-butter cookie cutter cars, Kia’s Optima in recent years has
consistently ranked as one of the more stylish sedans. And last generation,
this distinctive styling carried over to the interior. In fact, this was one of
my favorite aspects of the 2011-2015 Optima. I had an opportunity to drive the
older Optima as well, and things felt mostly well put together inside, though a
little cramped at times. I especially loved that model’s dashboard design,
which was curved toward the driver. The 2017 Optima feels even more well put-together than the outgoing model, but yet, it doesn’t feel quite as “dynamic” or “striking” overall to me… Gone is the driver-centric dashboard, the old way the panoramic sunroof opened (where the sunscreens would both disappear behind the center roof bar, leaving two separate windows above - VERY COOL), the sweeping gauges when you start the car up, trim-level specific gauges, there’s less power from the top 2.0 turbo engine, and the exterior design, especially in the rear, is more “sedate” than older Optimas, which gives the car a more straightforward (though still decently stylish) feeling. Fog lights are also unavailable on ANY trim of the 2016 and up Optimas, but were widely available in the past. While these changes don’t seem to have torpedoed the Optima's sales, some long-time fans of the car (such as myself) may feel as though its lost some of its unique “appeal” amongst competitors. Or perhaps I’m just being picky as an Optima fan… Alas, I digress.
(Update, March 2018: Fog Lights are now available on the 2018 Optima, depending on your selected trim level.)
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| These dark grey wheels come one Eco-trim models. LX-trim models get a lighter version. |
Despite lacking a sporty suspension setup, handling was plenty competent and braking was decent, though the Eco’s tires won’t allow for too much fun, so don’t get carried away. Wind noise was controlled well, though road noise was noticeable, but not annoying. Overall, it was definitely quieter inside this new model compared the older Optima I drove.
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| Trunk space was ample in the Optima, and interior storage was plentiful as well. Folding rear seats are a plus. |
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| Rear seat space and comfort was great, and available USB ports for rear seat passengers bring some convenience to the back. |
Furthermore, there were plenty of
soft touch materials on the door and dashboard, both front windows were
one-touch automatic up and down, and I found the front seats to be really
comfortable. I had no problem finding a nice driving position; the 12-way power
driver’s seat with memory function that my tester had was a nice touch. The
passenger seat was manual. The rear seats were comfortable as well, and plenty
roomy - a definite improvement over the outgoing Optima. On higher end models,
you can get heated rear seats with manual rear window sunshades, a thoughtful
touch. Rear seat air vents were another plus on my tester.
Overall cargo space was above average, and I found there were plenty of spots inside for small item storage. The glovebox and center armrest storage are both of good size, the Optima’s trunk is plenty large in comparison to some of its competition, and the rear seats fold down for even more space. This car was equipped with Kia’s smart trunk access, where you stand behind the car for three seconds and then the trunk opens, but I didn’t bother to try it out. Underneath the storage floor in the trunk, there’s a tire inflation kit instead of a spare tire, which helps with the car’s weight savings.
Overall cargo space was above average, and I found there were plenty of spots inside for small item storage. The glovebox and center armrest storage are both of good size, the Optima’s trunk is plenty large in comparison to some of its competition, and the rear seats fold down for even more space. This car was equipped with Kia’s smart trunk access, where you stand behind the car for three seconds and then the trunk opens, but I didn’t bother to try it out. Underneath the storage floor in the trunk, there’s a tire inflation kit instead of a spare tire, which helps with the car’s weight savings.
Respect the Tech
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| Keyless Entry, Drive Mode Select, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Rear Parking Sensors were just a few of the features found on my tester. |
Kia’s UVO infotainment and
navigation system was easy to use, although Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were
not available at the time. Both became available or standard on late 2016 and
all 2017 Kia models. The navigation system’s map graphics won’t blow you away,
but will get the job done. In EX and up models, a 10-speaker 630-watt
Harman-Kardon sound system is optional, and includes a huge rear shelf speaker
and Clari-Fi sound restoration. I imagine this system sounds pretty darn great,
but on the base LX and on my LX Eco tester, 6 speakers are standard. From my
experience, the standard non-premium speakers were somewhat flat in sound, even
though I adjusted the equalizer settings and the radio offered
speed-compensating volume, where the music will get louder as you drive faster.
I suggest that if you get the very base LX or LX Eco models, you consider
upgrading your speakers down the road if you’re an audiophile. Other tech
features included on my tester were smart key access, power-folding side
mirrors, blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, rear backup camera,
Bluetooth connectivity, and rear cross-traffic alert. On higher trims such as
the EX, SX, and SXL, other available tech features are a 360-degree camera
system (Surround View Monitor in Kia language), forward collision warning,
autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control,
wireless cellphone charging, heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering
wheel, a panoramic sunroof, LED headlights with high beam assist and dynamic
bending, and an electronic parking brake. Lane-keep assist is curiously missing
from the features list… Nappa leather and the upgraded headliner in the SXL
trim are nice luxury touches.
A new package for 2017 on the
Optima Eco is the “1.6 Value Package”, which rolls in black exterior sport trim
(side sills, exterior mirrors, and a rear spoiler), LED daytime running lights
with projector headlights, LED taillights, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay with
Kia’s UVO infotainment system, Merlot (brown) heated leather seating, a heated
steering wheel, and a 12-way power driver’s seat with memory. I have yet to see
this package on any 2017 Optimas anywhere. However, NOTE: This package CANNOT
BE HAD with the LX Technology package, so you’ll miss out on some features such
as blind-spot monitoring and the rear air vents by choosing it. Also, it can
only be had with certain exterior colors (Horizon Blue is not one of those colors). Personally, I would still get this
package regardless, as it gives you 3/4s of the features you’ll get anyways in
the LX Tech. Package, heated leather, and essentially navigation too (via
Android Auto/CarPlay). A sunroof is not available on the lower LX trim levels at
all.
Lasting Impressions - Wrap Up
Overall, the 2017 Kia Optima
represents a strong, and yet after this recent redesign, somewhat "bland" choice in a crowded (and SHRINKING in terms of sales) midsized sedan segment. It does everything it should, which is all well and good. However... It does EXACTLY everything it should, which means it's not doing a ton different... As a result, it sort of suffers from "good guy/girl" syndrome I call it and it flies under the radar oftentimes. Say for example, Kathy (buyers) sees all the good Frank (Optima) offers, but yet in the end, good is just "good", not particularly "fun". And there's a lottttt of fun to be had out there in the world. Not necessarily "GOOD fun", but fun nonetheless.
As with most of Kia's lineup, Optima's key trump card is it's strong value - "bang for your buck" if you will. With above average power and fuel economy coming out of its LX Eco trim, it becomes a more favorable option in my mind than the 2016 Malibu with the 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder I tested awhile back, offers more room than the Chrysler 200, and more style than a Camry or Passat. Sure, it may not be quite as striking in some ways as the outgoing Optima, like when it comes to its interior styling, and the Eco and other base trims should not be mistaken for any sports car with their tire and suspension setup. But Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, recent top awards in quality, the Optima’s designation as a “2016 Top Safety Pick +” by the IIHS AND overall 5-star safety rating, PLUS its abundance of luxury and tech features for thousands less than a luxury car make the Optima a very foolish-to-ignore option in its segment.
...So long as you're not out to make a "roaring statement" of opulence and shake the earth with a high-end sporty, luxury branded product. Yet, I highly doubt anyone buys these sorts of cars to show off. Optima I feel is all about making an "understated statement". And no car company lately has been better at doing that than Kia.
As with most of Kia's lineup, Optima's key trump card is it's strong value - "bang for your buck" if you will. With above average power and fuel economy coming out of its LX Eco trim, it becomes a more favorable option in my mind than the 2016 Malibu with the 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder I tested awhile back, offers more room than the Chrysler 200, and more style than a Camry or Passat. Sure, it may not be quite as striking in some ways as the outgoing Optima, like when it comes to its interior styling, and the Eco and other base trims should not be mistaken for any sports car with their tire and suspension setup. But Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, recent top awards in quality, the Optima’s designation as a “2016 Top Safety Pick +” by the IIHS AND overall 5-star safety rating, PLUS its abundance of luxury and tech features for thousands less than a luxury car make the Optima a very foolish-to-ignore option in its segment.
...So long as you're not out to make a "roaring statement" of opulence and shake the earth with a high-end sporty, luxury branded product. Yet, I highly doubt anyone buys these sorts of cars to show off. Optima I feel is all about making an "understated statement". And no car company lately has been better at doing that than Kia.
What are your thoughts about Kia as
a brand, the Optima lineup, and specifically this Optima Eco? I can tell you
now that this model will continue to be one of my favorites for a long time to
come, and I see bright things in store for Kia’s future if they keep designing well-rounded
products such as this.
That officially wraps up my Kia week posts!
Thanks for reading! Until later: ROLL ON!
Grading (LX 1.6 Eco Only)
- Engine Power/Economy: A+ (10 points)
- Quietness: B (7.5 points)
- Interior Quality/Comfort: B+ (8.5 points)
- Driving Dynamics: B (7 points)
- Cargo Capacity: B+ (8.5 points)
- Overall: 41.5/50 (83%; B)
Other Specs:
- Engines Available: 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (185 HP), 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (178 HP), 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (245 HP)
- Transmissions: 6-speed automatic (2.4 & 2.0T), 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (Eco 1.6T Only)
- Fuel Economy Ratings: 25 city/36 highway/29 combined (LX 2.4), 28 city/37 highway/31 combined (Eco 1.6), 24 city/34 highway/28 combined (EX 2.4), 22 city/31 highway/25 combined (SX & SXL 2.0)
- Trim Levels: LX, LX Eco, EX, SX, SXL
- Model Pricing: $22,200 (LX) - $36,090 (SXL)
- *Price as Tested*: $27,545
- Available/Standard Safety Features: Anti-Lock Brakes, Stability Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Forward-Collision Warning, Rear-View Camera, 360 Degree Camera System, Rear Parking Sensors, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Various Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain, Driver’s Knees), Hill Start Assist, Child Locks, 911 Connect (UVO)
Crash Test Results: 2016
& 2017 Top Safety Pick +
- IIHS Offset: Good
- IIHS Small Overlap: Good
- IIHS Side: Good
- IIHS Roof Strength: Good
- Head Restraints & Seats: Good
Star Ratings: Frontal Driver- 5
Stars Frontal Passenger- 4 Stars Front Side- 5 Stars Rear Side Crash- 5 Stars Rollover- 5 Stars; Overall Safety Rating- 5 Stars
Key Competitors: All vehicles in
the midsized car segment; Includes the Chrysler 200, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion,
Honda Accord, Chevrolet Malibu, Mazda 6, Hyundai Sonata, Volkswagen Passat,
Subaru Legacy, & Nissan Altima
Copyright © 2017 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.
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