Kia has been excellent at building cars that seem more expensive than they are. The Optima has become a surprisingly stylish and appealing entry in the competitive mid-size segment.
Three engine options are offered on non-hybrid Optima models for 2020: A 178-horsepower turbocharged 1.6L four, a 185-horsepower 2.4L four, and a 245-horsepower turbocharged 2.0L four. The 1.6L engine is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Other engines are paired with a conventional 6-speed automatic.

The 2020 Optima range includes the base LX and LX Turbo, S, EX and SX. The LX, S and EX come with the 2.4L turbo-charged engine. The LX Turbo comes with the 2.4L engine, and the EX comes exclusively with the 1.6L turbo engine Equipped with newly standard features such as adaptive cruise control and LED fog lights.

Base LX models come well equipped, including 16-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, chrome door handles, fog lamps and remote keyless entry. A standard 7-inch touchscreen with UVO eServices includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which pairs well with the 6-speaker stereo with Bluetooth and satellite radio. A Convenience Package adds auto up/down power front windows and a 10-way power driver's seat.

Beyond the 1.6L turbocharged engine, the LX Turbo trim gets a leather-wrapped steering wheel, 10-way power driver's seat, and a proximity key system. The Optima S trim adds some front and rear exterior bits like a sporty grille and rear spoiler, 17-inch alloy wheels, and LED fog lights and rear lamps.

EX models also ride on 17-inch wheels and upgrade to leather seat trim, heated and power-adjustable driver's seat, a heated steering wheel and dual-zone climate control.

Finally, SX Turbo Optimas get a sport-tuned suspension, 18" machined alloy wheels, HID headlamps with LED fog lights, a panoramic sunroof, integrated navigation, heated and ventilated front seats with 10-way power for driver and passenger and a smartphone-connected infotainment system. The previous SXL trim is now the Limited Package for the SX, with premium Napa leather seats, 18-inch chrome alloys, a 10-speaker Harmon/Kardon audio system with surround sound and Bluetooth. Heated rear seats are a standalone option.

The Optima Hybrid utilizes the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine and pairs with it with a lithium polymer battery and electric motor, for a total of 192 horsepower. Kia claims an EPA-estimated combined 42 mpg. The Optima Hybrid is available in either Premium trim, which is equipped similarly to the gasoline-powered Optima EX.

Of course, all of the safety oriented features buyers expect today are included and then some such as a suite of front and side airbags, and advanced safety features like Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Parking Distance Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Change Assist, Lane-Keeping Assist Line and Lane Departure Warning for all trim levels.

Strong Value Proposition

Extensive Standard Feature List

Powerful Engine Lineup

Stylish Design

Efficient Hybrid Powertrain Available

The Kia Optima enters into its 2020 model year without a lot of additions or changes. A few items from the technology package such as a wireless phone charger are now standard on the 2020 car. The vehicle remains otherwise unaltered.

The Kia Optima has always presented a strong value argument. A choice of three powerful and efficient powertrains complement a feature-rich and stylish sedan. With prices starting at just under $23,000 for the base LX and ranging up to about $36,000 for the plug-in hybrid version, the Optima offers something at every price point.