2019 Kia Optima

2019 Kia Optima Highlights

The 2019 Kia Optima stands out in the midsize sedan segment with its sleek design, comfortable interior, and an array of standard features. This model year introduces minor updates, including revised styling cues and expanded availability of advanced safety features. The Optima's combination of style, value, and efficiency, especially in its hybrid variants, makes it an attractive option against stalwart competitors like the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Toyota Camry.

Key Details

• Midsize sedan body style
• Several four-cylinder engines: 2.4-liter, 1.6-liter turbo, 2.0-liter turbo, hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV)
• Front-wheel drive (FWD)
• Six-speed or seven-speed automatic transmission, depending on engine

Benefits

• Stylish exterior design with sporty touches
• Spacious and well-appointed interior
• User-friendly UVO infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Numerous standard safety features
• Available hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains for enhanced fuel efficiency

Learn More: Here Are The Kia Optima Years To Avoid

2019 Kia Optima Overview

Performance

The 2019 Kia Optima offers a range of powertrain options to suit different driving preferences. The base LX and S trims feature a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 185 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine provides adequate power for daily driving scenarios.

The SX trim boasts a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 245 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque for those seeking more excitement. This powerplant delivers spirited acceleration and enhanced passing capability, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts.

The EX trim utilizes a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 178 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. This engine is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.

For the efficiency-minded, the Optima Hybrid combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a total system output of 192 horsepower. The Plug-in Hybrid variant offers the same powertrain with a larger battery and ten more combined horsepower, allowing for up to 29 miles of all-electric driving.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Optima a top five-star overall safety rating. In addition, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2019 Optima a "Top Safety Pick+" when equipped with upgraded headlights. This is the organization’s highest designation.

The Optima also offers a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance technologies, with many features standard across all trims:

• Forward collision avoidance assists with pedestrian detection
• Lane-keeping assist
• Lane departure warning
• Automatic high beams
• Driver attention warning

Additional available safety technologies include:

• Blind-spot collision warning
• Rear cross-traffic collision warning
• Adaptive cruise control
• Front and rear parking sensors

Driving

The 2019 Kia Optima offers a composed and predictable driving experience thanks to a suspension that balances comfort and sportiness. The setup enables reasonable body control, especially through corners. With its sport-tuned suspension, the SX trim offers a slightly firmer ride without sacrificing ride quality, a strong point for all trims. Road and wind noise are well-controlled, contributing to a quiet cabin environment, especially at highway speeds.

Interior

The 2019 Kia Optima interior is well-designed and spacious, competing favorably with other midsize sedans. The cabin features solid build quality, giving the Optima an unusual premium feel at this price point. Both front and rear passengers enjoy ample legroom, with the front seats offering good support and adjustability. However, the Optima’s sleek profile impacts the interior with reduced second-row headroom. The driver's seat provides a good view of the road but at a lower ride height, giving the car a more sporty feel.

Trunk space is noteworthy for the midsize sedan segment, with 15.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity in the standard models. The hybrid variants sacrifice some trunk space to accommodate the battery pack but still offer practical storage capacity.

2019 Kia Optima interior features available on various trims include:

• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat with memory function
• Panoramic sunroof
• Ambient interior lighting

The range-topping SX trim takes the Optima further upscale with features like Nappa leather seating surfaces and gloss black interior accents.

Technology

The 2019 Kia Optima is tech-centered with a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across all trims.

Key technology features varying by trim include:

• UVO link connected car services
• Wireless phone charger
• Harman Kardon premium surround sound system
• Proximity keyless entry with push-button start
• Surround-view monitor
• Head-up display

Fuel Economy

The EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2019 Kia Optima vary depending on the engine and trim. Here’s a breakdown of the official EPA estimates:

2.4-liter four-cylinder / LX, S

• FWD (mpg): 24 city / 32 highway / 27 combined

1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder / EX

• FWD (mpg): 27 city / 37 highway / 31 combined

2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder / SX

• FWD (mpg): 21 city / 30 highway / 24 combined

2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid / EX

• FWD (mpg): 39 city / 45 highway / 41 combined

2.0-liter four-cylinder plug-in hybrid / EX

• FWD (mpg): 40 combined / 103 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent)

2019 Kia Optima Reviews

2019 Kia Optima reviews on Kelley Blue Book are mostly positive, with an average rating of 4.1 to 4.3 out of 5 stars. Owners frequently praise the Optima for its reliability, quality, comfort, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Distinctive, sporty exterior design
• Spacious, upscale cabin
• Numerous standard or available advanced safety features
• Very good fuel economy for the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants

Problems

• Base engine performance can feel lackluster compared to some rivals
• Fuel economy for non-hybrid models is good but not class-leading
• Some advanced features are reserved for higher trims
• No all-wheel-drive option

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CoPilot's Take

The midsize sedan segment is best known for functionality, efficiency, and mundane design, but the Kia Optima injects some excitement into the mix. Its rakish exterior is pleasing to look at, while a well-thought-out interior enhances the package. Add many standard and available features, and the Optima's case becomes even stronger.

Another strong point is the variety of powertrain options. From the efficient 1.6-liter turbo to the powerful 2.0-liter turbo and the eco-friendly hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, there's an Optima to suit a wide range of driving needs and preferences.

At the same time, this wealth of powerplant choices can overwhelm the average buyer. The best way to decide is to get behind the wheel rather than research engine specs. The unexciting base engine may be all that’s needed, while those pursuing livelier driving will want a turbo under the hood. If fuel economy is the priority, then the 2019 Kia Optima hybrid or plug-in hybrid is the way to go.

2019 Kia Optima FAQs

What are the disadvantages of a 2019 Kia Optima?

While the 2019 Kia Optima is generally a well-rounded vehicle, it does have some potential disadvantages:

• The base engine can feel underpowered compared to some competitors, especially during rapid acceleration.
• Fuel economy for non-hybrid models, while competitive, is not class-leading.
• The sloping roofline may limit rear headroom for taller passengers.
• Some advanced features are only available on higher trims, which can increase the price significantly.
• There's no all-wheel-drive option, which may be a drawback for buyers in regions with harsh winters.
• While improving, the Optima's resale value may not be as strong as that of some competitors, such as the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry.

What is the average life of a 2019 Kia Optima?

Kia Optima's longevity can vary among individual examples, but a lifespan of 150,000 to 200,000 miles is a reasonable expectation. Driving habits and usage play a role, as does following the recommended maintenance schedule and staying on top of any problems that arise.

Are the 2019 Kia Optimas cheap to fix?

Compared to some brands or more complex vehicles, the 2019 Kia Optima is generally considered relatively affordable to maintain and repair. Kia has tried to improve reliability and reduce maintenance costs in recent years. However, costs can vary depending on the specific repair needed and your location. Routine maintenance costs are typically in line with those of other midsize sedans. More complex repairs may be expensive, especially on turbocharged or hybrid models.

What trims are available for the 2019 Kia Optima?

Buyers have four trims to choose from:

• 2019 Kia Optima LX
• 2019 Kia Optima S
• 2019 Kia Optima EX
• 2019 Kia Optima SX Turbo

The hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants only come in the EX trim.

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