The previous generation Kia Optima was a vehicle struggling to keep up with the times, having emerged on the scene as a lackluster model masquerading as a value proposition, when in reality it was just plain cheap. And the market responded with even Kia Motor America VP of Sales Tom Loveless describing the brand’s presence in the hugely important mid-size sedan segment as, “way down near the bottom.”

• FAST FACTS
• IS BIGGER BETTER?
• DRIVER-ORIENTED INTERIOR DESIGN
• LUXURIOUS CLASS-EXCLUSIVE FEATURES
• SOLID RIDE WITH POWER TO SPARE AND EXCELLENT FUEL ECONOMY
• THE VERDICT