With its last redesign for 2011, the Kia Optima graduated from a high-value but unexciting choice to one that's top-notch, sophisticated, and full-featured.
The latest Optima takes on the Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, and Honda Accord--all of which have been redesigned for 2013.
Versus the new versions of these cars, the Optima most directly faces the Accord, with its roomier interior and good compromise between ride comfort and handling.
The most recent Mazda6 wasn't a sales hit, but the new one could do better: its slightly offbeat styling is appealing, and so is its crisp steering and roomy back seat.
The 2013 Ford Fusion gets a more rakish appearance to match that of the Optima, while the Altima beats the Optima's highway mileage, with up to 38 mpg on the highway.
The Hyundai Sonata remains a close competitor as well, even if Kia doesn't want you to see it that way; between the two we've come to like the Optima a bit better for its somewhat better handling and simpler, more elegant styling.
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 2013 Kia OptimaBrowse Used Listings |  2013 Ford FusionBrowse Used Listings |  2013 Hyundai SonataBrowse Used Listings |  2013 Mazda MAZDA6Browse Used Listings |  2013 Nissan AltimaBrowse Used Listings |
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The 2013 Kia Optima adds generous dashes of style and sophistication to what's otherwise a sensible, frugal, and spacious mid-size sedan. |
The 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid makes an extraordinary leap forward in fuel economy--but also, in its appealing looks and handling. |
With a standout design; perky performance; great gas mileage; and exceptional value for the money, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata is one of the best buys among mid-size sedans. |
The 2013 Mazda6 is a little more enjoyable to drive than other mid-size sedans, and its roomy, comfortable interior is another advantage, but it's behind the curve in occupant safety and tech features. |
Briskly updated in the right ways, the 2013 Nissan Altima sedan promises good looks and great gas mileage for those who don't mind a CVT. |
| MSRP From | ||||
| $21,350 | $21,900 | $20,895 | $20,725 | $21,760 |
| Gas Mileage | ||||
| 22 MPG City / 40 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 41 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 40 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 38 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | ||||
| Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 |
| EPA Class | ||||
| Midsize Cars | Mid-Size Sedan | Large Cars | Midsize | Midsize |
| Style Name | ||||
| 4-Door Sedan LX | 4-Door Sedan SE FWD | 4-Door Sedan 2.4L Automatic GLS *Ltd Avail* | 4-Door Sedan Manual i Sport | 4-Door Sedan I4 2.5 |
| Drivetrain | ||||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||||
| Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan |
| Transmission | ||||
| Automatic w/manual shift | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Manual | Continuously Variable Ratio |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
| 2013 Kia Optima vs. 2013 Ford Fusion | 2013 Kia Optima vs. 2013 Hyundai Sonata | 2013 Kia Optima vs. 2013 Mazda MAZDA6 | 2013 Kia Optima vs. 2013 Nissan Altima | |
