Roomy New Interior

However, the Optima's quiet new interior is more upscale and will accommodate four tall adults, or five in a pinch.

Front seats are supportive, and the rear-seat area is impressively roomy—although the back seat has a stiff center area. Oversized door handles help allow easy entry.

The instrument panel has a design that curves at the corners and flows on to the door panels. Gauges can be easily read, climate controls are large and radio controls are simple to use. There are a decent number of storage areas for smaller items, and front cupholders are conveniently located on the console. Sun visor vanity mirrors have ceiling lights—an upscale touch. However, some interior surfaces feel rough.

    See also:

    Smart key
    With a smart key, you can lock or unlock a door (and tailgate) and even start the engine without inserting the key. The functions of the buttons on a smart key are similar to the remote keyless ...

    Hood
    Opening the hood: 1. Pull the release lever on the lower left side of the instrument panel to unlatch the hood. The hood should pop open slightly. 2. Go to the front of the vehicle, raise the ...

    Rear differential (4WD)
    Checking or changing rear differential fluid Have rear differential fluid checked or changed by an Authorized Kia Dealer according to the Maintenance Schedule at the beginning of this section. ...