2016 Kia Optima SX – Test Drive, Reviews, Ratings, Spec

Extravagant in an Convenience Package

For most, it’s difficult to shake out of a first brand impression. In the case of KIA, it’s more or less been a brand perceived as mediocre. But the introduction of the near luxury level of the Optima has given the brand a fresh statement where design and quality matters.

Personally, I’ve never been a huge fan of the Optima, but this year’s updated iteration has certainly revised my perspective. My first experience with the 2014 Optima exposed limitations in its handling capabilities and power lag. While my 2.0L turbo SXL model still shows signs of power lag off the straight line, handling has been more refined with both both interior and exterior styling upgrades that would otherwise, fool you into believing the Optima is of luxury material.

Daring Looks

This is a sharp looking car, particularly with the SXL tester model. Its front hood and fascia’s got some deep sculptures with various chrome ascents and detailing that accentuates a sportier and aggressive look. I’m still not a huge fan of the unconventional 5-spoke plated rims, but the large 18″ wheels does give the Optima a bold stance. The rear end is a bit more toned down but still eye catching with an integrated spoiler, polygonal shaped chrome tail pipes and a sleek rear diffuser to complete.

The premium paid to step into the SX trim certainly rings a sweet look. For those on a tighter budget, the EX/LX model offers a more toned down look and less amenities at a more affordable price tag.

Stunning Interior

Following form and function, the cabin space is both spacious as it is luxurious. Leather seats are soft to the touch with a cool cross-pattern stitching. Center console is flat platted with buttons well laid out and interior paneling material is made of solid material. Rear legroom is very generous thanks to its long chassis wheel-base blueprint. Driving position is comfortable, though the lack of lateral support and roominess reminds you of how big the car actually is. On another plus node, the panoramic sunroof certainly adds.

Our SXL tester comes complete with a ensuite of technology package including voice navigation, blind spot detection, rear view camera and adaptive cruise control. Navigating through the infotainment system is smooth and responsive. Voice commands do take a bit of patience, but overall works with a bit of practice in use. The dash display remains minimal with a simple speed and tachomter with a small LCD screen in between two gauges that can be configured to display more vehicle data through the steering mounted controls.

Power and Handling

Powering our SXL tester is worked by a 2.0L turbocharged engine producing 245 horsepower and 260 ft.lbs of torque. It’s not a lot of power to play around with, and the turbo lag does require a bit of pre-planning. Suspensions have been improved over the last few years, but the limited handling is still an imprint to the Optima. Steering precision and responsiveness is relaxed to match the limited handling capability.

Driving comfort is still decent, but suspension responsiveness really needs to get up to snuff to offer a more satisfying level of handling and comfort. And since the SXL is already the top model, the driving capability of the Optima is capped with no further upgrades to be had in the performance category.

The SXL Turbo comes priced in at $37,795. It’s a bit steep, but you do get exquisite styling and a very comfortable and pleasing cabin space. And with that said, it’s still cheaper than a 2.0L Infiniti Q50 that offers similar levels of luxury and power output.

Handling and performance can certainly be improved though. But if that’s a real issue, get the upper Kia Cadenza model equipped a no-fuss naturally aspirated V6 and proper suspensions to deliver equal levels of comfort and performance.