2013 Kia Optima – Another Hit!

The Kia Optima sedan, when it initially debuted in 2000, was essentially a variant of the Hyundai Sonata, with slightly different styling details and minor differences in equipment. The second generation, introduced in 2005, used a global platform unique to Kia, called the “MG,” but still shared its 2.4 liter straight-four engine and Sportmatic transmission with the Sonata.

The third generation Kia Optima sedan, in contrast, is completely revamped, with sleeker, sportier styling and a powertrain upgrade to a universal GDI 4-cylinder engine.

The 2013 Kia Optima sedan offers European-inspired styling designed by Kia’s chief design officer (former chief designer for Audi), Peter Schreyer. With its complete redesign, the Optima went from looking ordinary to being one of the nicest-looking sedans in the mid-size market. The new design boasts sporty, European detailing, a more rakish, coupelike roofline, stretched headlamps, and flashy wheel designs, and it has a more athletic look overall than most mid-size sedans.

The well-heeled interior of the Optima has a clean, minimalist design with a wide bank of controls canted in the driver’s direction, that are easy to read and pleasing to the eye. It also offers features such as available heated rear seats and panoramic glass roof. The cabin is fairly spacious and provides comfortable seating and a good amount of legroom in both front and rear, and boasts an abundance of soft-touch materials as well.

The 2013 Kia Optima is offered in LX, EX, SX, and SX Limited models. The LX and EX are both powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with direct injection, providing 200 horsepower and 186 pound feet of torque, in both manual and automatic 6-speed options. Both LX and EX trims deliver outstanding fuel economy figures of 24 mpg city/35 mpg hwy, and 28 mpg combined. The SX and SX Limited utilize a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that gives up to 274 horsepower and increases torque to 269 pound-feet. This added boost barely affects fuel economy, with the SX trims still getting 22 mpg city/ 34 mpg hwy. Kia also offers an improved Hybrid powertrain in the 2013 model, teaming the basic four-cylinder engine with a 40-hp electric motor and batteries. The Hybrid achieves an output of 206 horsepower and 195 pound feet of torque, while getting 35 mpg city and 40 mpg hwy.

The 2013 Kia Optima rides and handles well, with a quick, nimble feel both on open stretches and in city traffic. The electronic power steering feels a little numb, lacking positive road feedback, but the ride is comfortable and quiet over textured surfaces, and the overall driving experience is better than average for mid-size sedans. The four-cylinder engine, paired with a responsive transmission, provide a smooth-shifting and powerful-feeling driving experience.

With a starting MSRP of only $22,000, this well-rounded mid-size sedan offers a long list of positive attributes and plenty of features for your money. With its variety of trims and prices, there is a model to fit most budgets, as well. Overall, the 2013 Kia Optima sedan is a good choice for a family car, providing comfort, style and a fuel economy rating that is top in its class.

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