2016 Kia Optima 2.0T SX

The 2016 Kia Optima 2.0T SX is one of GAYOT's Top 10 Family Sedans and GAYOT's Top 10 Fuel-Efficient Cars

The redesigned 2016 Kia Optima gets more room and a stiffer chassis, as well as more distinguished styling. The upmarket 2.0T SX model we tested features a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four with 245 horsepower and 6-speed automatic transmission. Compared to last year’s Optima, Kia’s newsiest midsize sedan is definitely closer to optimal in terms of interior design, features and road manners. Thanks to a stiffer chassis, handling is improved without sacrificing ride quality.

The Kia Optima 2.0T SX now sports a distinctly Audi-like feel. It seems like Kia is no longer benchmarking products like the Toyota Camry or Ford Fusion and now aspires to higher levels of refinement. Kia’s UVO infotainment system gets meaningful upgrades for 2016, and the Optima SX now features a 360-degree exterior camera system, adaptive cruise control and a variety of blind-spot and cross-traffic alert systems. The Kia Optima still competes at about the same price point, meaning it’s aimed mostly at families who may have one or two cars. As such it competes with some of the best selling cars in America including the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

But contrary to past stereotypes about Korean cars, the 2016 Kia Optima goes upmarket compared to its main rivals. It offers a distinct upgrade in terms of cabin quality and feature content, and the SX trim comes in at a higher price than, say, the Mazda 6 or Nissan Altima. So family sedan buyers looking for bare bones practicality may find sweeter deals on remaining 2015 models or on one of the Optima’s Japanese or American rivals. But for those cross-shopping a midsize sedan or an entry-luxury car, the Optima 2.0T SX might just hold the Optimal middle ground.