For 2016 the Kia Optima has been completely redesigned.
The midsize sedan category is a full one. There are any number of cars to choose from and competition is fierce. In order to be noticed you’ve got to be a cut above and this is where the 2016 Kia Optima sits. With a completely re-engineered skeleton and a few tweaks to its skin, the Optima is even more appealing.
The 2016 Kia Optima is a five-passenger midsize sedan that comes in LX, EX, SX and SXL trim levels. This review will focus on the SXL.
With exterior chrome accents, special trim and premium leather upholstery added too, automatic high-beam headlights, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree parking camera system and an electronic parking brake. Additional safety features include, lane departure warning system, and a frontal collision mitigation system with automatic braking.
The SXL also comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine,18-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust tips, a sport-tuned suspension, adaptive xenon headlights, LED taillights, a rear spoiler, unique exterior styling details, upgraded gauges, the auto-dimming rearview mirror, ambient lighting, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, the 8-inch touchscreen bundle, rear side window sunshades, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system.
Equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-banger they’ll see you coming with 245 horses and 260 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic makes it all blend together seamlessly. For mileage expect to get 22/city, 32/highway and 25/combined mpg.
Well appointed and spacious, the interior boasts materials that are soft to the touch. The quilted leather seats in the SXL are definitely up-market and comfortable. There’s plenty of legroom both front and back but really tall people may feel cramped as the panoramic sunroof and angled roof cut into the head room somewhat. Cargo won’t be cramped with 15.8 cubic feet of space.
All techno-functions are accessed through the 8-inch touchscreen with big easy to read buttons and sharp illustrations.
The V6-like turbocharged engine gives the Optima plenty of get up and go. With a quiet ride and smooth handling, the Optima is a joy to drive in town or on the road.
Looking for a midsized sedan with a little extra? Than give the 2016 Kia Optima SLX a test drive.
