The significantly updated 2014 Kia Optima midsize sedan is now on sale in the US, and it looks fantastic.
The refreshed Optima features updated fascias in front and back, all without hurting the sporty proportions it is famous for.
There are a number of trims available – LX, EX, SX, SX-Turbo and SX-Limited – all of which feature a host of premium features and amenities as standard.
2014 Optima Engines – 2.0L Turbo, 2.4L
There are two engines to choose from in the 2014 model. Both are belong to the Theta II engine family which utilizes gasoline direct injection (GDI) technology.
Buyers can choose from the 2.4-liter, or the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo engines.
The base unit (2.4L) is featured on the LX, EX, and SX (non-turbo) trims, while the 2.0L turbo is only found in the SX-Turbo and SX-Limited trim levels. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic that features clutchless shifting.
Brand new to the 2014 model, albeit only on the SX variant, is the Driver Select Mode system.
It allows the driver to adjust steering weight and trnsmission shift points to create a unique, customized driving experience.
The seats have been redesigned to deliver a higher level of comfort. Safety has also been addressed thanks to the use of a Blind Spot Detection System that includes rear parking sensors and a rear cross-traffic alert.
One touch of the push button start and the 4.3-inch TFT LCD instrument cluster springs to life.
There is also the option for an 5-inch navigation system ans telematics screen that showcases the UVO eServices system. There are also upgrades to sound and entertainment available, with an optional sound system and SiriusXM steallite radio.
Each Optima trim level comes with a great selection of standard features.
The LX offers exterior mirror turn signals, dual exhaust with chrome tips, front fog lights, solar glass, exetrior heated mirrors, 16-inch alloy wheels, and 6-speed automatic trnasmission.
At the EX level you also get 17-inch alloy wheels, 8-way power adjustable drivers seat, leather trim on the seats, and illuminated cup holders up front.
The SX trim level comes with shiny new polished 18-inch alloy wheels, aero wiper blades, and a unique design on the front and rear bumpers.
The SX-T includes HID headlights with auto leveling.
The top of the line Limited trim takes the 2014 Optima to all new levels of refinement and sporty styling.
That includes 18-inch chrome wheels, red brake calipers, LED fog lights, chrome accented side sills, electronic parking brake, and premium Nappa leather-trimmed seats.
Revised Front, Rear Design
The midsize category is one that has long promoted function over aesthetics, but the 2014 Kia Optima looks to be blazing a new design trail.
The exisiting design has been refined to all-new levels of elegance, starting with the aforementioned fascias and front grille.
The car looks like an aerodynamic marvel, with the sweeping trunk lid and rear diffusers carrying that look all the way to the back.
The design is very much European inspired, which is hghlighted by the use of LED lighting in both the front and back.
That touch of class is carried over to the interior with the addition of amenities and technologies usually found on more upscale vehicles. [Photo: Flickr]
Yeah, I love the improvements made to the 2014 Optima! I loved the pre-facelift model, but there were some minor things inside the car that I hoped Kia would improve with the redesign.
They did that already with the facelift! So kudos to Kia!
Kia designers ruined the taillights.
Drove a 2014 the other day. The Steering wheel feels clumsy, and using the steering wheel buttons is cumbersome. Other than that I was fairly impressed.