The Kia Optima is a car that makes you do a double take in the car park. The design, penned under Peter Schreyer's direction, has a European sensibility that stands out in a segment dominated by cautious styling.
The Si grade runs a 2.4-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder GDi engine making 143kW and 243Nm. It's paired with a six-speed automatic that works cleanly without drama.
Fuel economy sits around 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres combined, which is slightly behind the diesel rivals in this segment. Over a year's worth of fuel bills, that gap becomes noticeable.
Inside, the Optima punches above its price. Leather seats, a seven-inch touch-screen, heated front seats and a reverse camera are all standard. The quality of materials is a genuine surprise for those still carrying expectations from Korean cars of a decade ago.
Ride quality is comfortable and the Optima feels settled on the freeway. Handling is competent without being memorable.
The Optima competes directly with the Hyundai i45, Mazda 6 and Honda Accord Euro. Against that field it holds its own on equipment and undercuts several rivals on price. The seven-year warranty gives it another edge.
