Kia Optima stands strong as new generation waits in the wings - Phoenix Business Journal (blog)
I’m going to do this review – 2015 Kia Optima – with an eye to the future. Just five years off a redesign for the 2011 model year, Kia’s midsize sedan will mark another new generation when 2016 models arrive in the fourth quarter. The 2015 Kia has a couple faults, but stands out in this me-too segment for its sharp styling inside and out. The 2015 boasts two 4-liter engines: a 192-horsepower 2. 4-liter plant and a 2. 0-liter turbo rated at 274 hp. Both are strong movers for this class coupled with a smooth and responsive 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2016 will offer buyers three engine choices, including a new 1. 6-liter 178-hp turbo mated to a new 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. And Kia says the returning engines are being retuned for better fuel economy and performance. A long warranty and value pricing continues to be hallmarks for Kia, the Optima no exception. In addition to the fuel numbers, the other criticism of the current generation is lack of headroom in back, partly due to the Optima’s raked profile. Source: www.bizjournals.com
