30 Days Of 2013 Ram 1500: Gas Mileage, So Far
As we roll through our 30-day road test of the 2013 Ram 1500, we're ready to file our first report... Read More
- #5LEADERBOARD RANK
- 5170ARTICLES CONTRIBUTED
- 111COMMENTS POSTED
FEATURES | 9 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
In what has been a Kia home-run feature of late, the steering wheel impresses with its girth, controls layout, and appearance.
Motor Trend
very Sync-like navigation and concierge electronics
Road & Track
a feature list that zooms past the competition, stealing the thunder from luxury sedans
Kelley Blue Book
At the top end, the equipment reads like a big luxury sedan
Cars.com
air-conditioned glove box for cooling drinks
Popular Mechanics
Features remain a strength throughout the Kia lineup, and the Optima is no exception. It's a lot of value for the money, with standard power features, cruise control, a USB port and satellite radio. Even mid-level EX trims get things like dual-zone climate control and a smart-key system, with options for leather trim, a panoramic sunroof and Infinity audio.
Bluetooth is included in even the base models, and heated-and-cooled front seats are available in mid-level EX or SX trims. The heated backseat is yet another class-exclusive.
A navigation system is available, as is UVO, Kia's flavor of the Microsoft-written software also sold as Ford's SYNC. But the Kia version has fewer voice commands in its vocabulary, and it's also deleted when the navigation system is ordered. If you do opt for the nav system (packaged with the upgraded audio system), you get a the same Bluetooth system that base Optimas have—by Parrot instead.
Conclusion
The 2012 Optima has a feature list that doesn't disappoint--along with some extras (cooled front seats) you won't find in other budget models.
