Kia Optima- The Top Three Reasons We’ll Miss It

It’s Never Too Late To Say Goodbye

After being one of the most popular and affordable sedans on the road, Kia has decided to discontinue the Optima. The 2020 version will be the last production year for this amazing car. Whether the Optima was your first car or you plan on making it your next car, there is a great deal to love about this history maker. Let us share why we love this Kia sedan and why it’s bittersweet to say goodbye to this classic while saying hello to the K5.

Here are the top three things we’re all going to missing about the Kia Optima:

1. Tons of Standard Equipment in this Kia Sedan

Many auto manufacturers create a base-level trim to draw in shoppers but pull a bait-and-switch when it comes to getting the features they want. The entry-level trim offers very few upgrades, driver-assist systems, or other perks. You then have to pay more than you expected to get everything you need.

The Kia Optima was designed with a different goal in mind. Instead of forcing shoppers to purchase endless upgrades, the Optima comes with tons of standard equipment. You certainly have options for higher-level trims, but you don’t feel forced to pay more just to get the basic features.

For example, the 2020 Optima has four trims. The base-level LX comes out of the gate with plenty to love:

• 2.4-liter engine offering 185 hp and 178 lb0ft of torque
• Automatic headlights
• 16-inch alloy wheels
• Automatic high-beam control
• Heated mirrors
• Height-adjustable front seats
• 60/40 rear seats
• Eight-inch touchscreen
• USB port
• Sound system with six speakers

That’s just the base-level trim. Even at this level, you get a tremendous value.

2. Its Distinct Look of the Kia Sedan

Everyone who has ever gotten into the back seat of a Kia Optima knows the signature downward-slopping roofline. Bumping your head getting in and out is almost a rite of passage. While this might seem like a downside, the sloping roof is really what makes this car stand out. Even though you might have to duck to make your way into the back seat, you’ll find plenty of room once inside.

Otherwise, the Optima is known for its aggressive grille, alloy wheels, and smooth accents. This car doesn’t have to be flashy in order to stand out.

3. Top Safety Ratings

If there is one thing that Kia got right with the Optima, it involves safety. This car continues to get the highest ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. In fact, the IIHS gives the Optima it’s “Top Safety +” title.

Not only is this vehicle built to withstand collision and protect passengers, but it also comes loaded with the latest and greatest driver-assist features:

• Rear parking sensors
• Lane-keeping assist
• Driver attention monitoring
• Lane departure warning
• Forward collision warning
• Blind-spot monitoring

A Silver Lining for this Kia Sedan

For those who will truly miss the Kia Optima, there is good news. Just like how a caterpillar goes into a cocoon before emerging as a beautiful butterfly, the Kia Optima isn’t just disappearing. It’s transforming.

Kia launched the K5 as its next midsize sedan. This car takes everything we love about the Optima to an entirely new level. It has a stronger look, advanced tech features, more power than ever before. It may not be called an Optima, but the K5 certainly embodies the Optima’s aurora.

The Kia Optima may be gone as we know it, but it will never be forgotten. It’s moved on to make room for the impressive K5.