The new engine mates to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, which works like an automatic. The 1.6-liter turbo available for Optima LX comes in at 178 hp at 5,500 rpm and 195 lb-ft of torque at just 1,500 rpm. All models get a multi-mode switch for Eco, Normal, and Sport settings for the powertrain, while SX and SXL trims add paddle shifters. Both engines are slightly down in power over the previous versions, but they’ve been retuned for better drivability and fuel economy. The 2.4-liter GDI engine available on LX and EX models produces 185 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 178 pound-feet of torque, while the 2.0-liter turbo generates 245 hp at 6,000 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 1,350 rpm. Kia offers a trio of 4-cylinder engine choices: a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that was new last year and two engines that carry over from the previous generation, a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated unit and a 2.0-liter turbo. Trunk space stands at 15.9 cubic feet, which is a little on the tight side for the segment, but there's a wide opening into the cabin and standard split-folding rear seat backs. All models boast a height-adjustable passenger seat, a rarity in this segment and one that doesn't make the shotgun seat feel like second class. The latest Optima is marginally longer, taller and wider than before, and these changes add up to a slightly roomier and more comfortable cabin, along with more trunk space. Trims, buttons, and switchgear inside improve by leaps and bounds, and you won’t have to look far to see the level of improvement here in the details. The dash is no longer as segmented and visually canted toward the driver’s seat. Inside the change is much easier to see thanks to better utilization of the space allotted for passengers and their gear. It's a style that has matured into a more nuanced, grown up look. It's a theme started several years ago, but the latest model sharpens the focus with cleaner detailing and a more cohesive look. From the outside, the Optima continues to embrace many of the design traits that used to be verboten in a sedan-like the swoopier, coupe-like roofline (elongated just enough to assure some back-seat head room), a greenhouse that tapers at the rear, and proportions that are almost like those of a rear-wheel-drive sport sedan. The 2017 carries over last year's new look-but if you weren't paying attention, you may not have noticed a full redesign for 2016. As the saying goes: "If you liked the old one." In design and styling, the last Optima was a resounding success, as it pushed the brand’s mid-size sedan entry from faceless to fashionable. Instead, it fine-tunes, finesses, and fetters every detail in between-to create an Optima that was all-new but keeps close to the form of the much-loved outgoing model.įor 2017, the Optima carries over basically unchanged aside from 18-inch wheels now standard on SX and SXLs and some minor option package shuffling on other trim levels. After spending some time with the latest Optima, we can say that it doesn’t mess too much with the good things its predecessor brought to the table. The Optima was redesigned last year, a follow-up to the model that essentially rebooted Kia in the hotly contested mid-size sedan segment. Like the Sonata, the Optima squares off against the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda 6, the Ford Fusion, and the Subaru Legacy. Underneath its taut lines and coupe-esque silhouette sits a vehicle that's very similar to the Hyundai Sonata. We've rated it a 7.3 out of 10 based on its strong value and styling combination. The 2017 Kia Optima offers its own take on the right recipe for a mid-size sedan with its European styling, coupe-like roofline, and wide range of engine choices.Īvailable in LX, EX, SX, and SXL trim levels, the 2017 Kia Optima has created a compelling choice in this crowded segment.
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