New 2025 Kia Optima Reviews And Price

The 2025 Kia Optima looks good and comes with lots of features, but it isn’t as special as some other cars in its class. It offers different types of engines, including hybrid ones, but they perform just okay, and they’re not super fuel-efficient. The Kia has a great warranty for its engine and gets good safety scores. 

On the positive side, the inside of the Optima is well-made, and it comes with lots of safety tech as standard. If you’re a family looking for a sedan and you’re not too concerned about super exciting driving, the 2025 Optima could still work for you.

What’s New for 2025?

The 2025 Kia Optima introduces a range of enhancements, encompassing both standard and optional features, along with the addition of the new S model. This S model takes its place between the base LX and EX trim levels, with a starting price of $26,515. 

Notably, the Optima hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants now feature standard driver assistance features, such as adaptive journey control and lane-keeping assist. Additionally, these hybrid models incorporate LED fog lights and offer customizable interior lighting. 

Among other updates, wireless phone charging is now a standard feature on all models except for the two base trim levels. Furthermore, it’s worth mentioning that every Optima now includes pedestrian detection as part of its safety suite.

What Sets It Apart From its Competitors?

The 2025 Kia Optima sets itself apart from rivals with its sleek design, advanced technology, and efficient performance. Competing against models like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Hyundai Sonata, the Optima offers a stylish exterior, modern interior, and a range of powertrain options including hybrid variants.

2025 Kia Optima Release Date

It is expected to be unveiled as a 2025 Kia Optima, with the potential to enter the market in 2025. This article will be updated once the official release date is confirmed.

What will be its Cost?

If you’re not particularly concerned about the extra power that comes with the GT model’s 290-horsepower engine. In that case, the GT-Line provides an appealing combination of sporty design elements at an attractive price point. We recommend considering the GT-Line, and for those who desire the added benefit of all-wheel drive for enhanced all-weather traction, it can be obtained for an additional $1,600.

All GT-Line models come equipped with a set of standard features, including a more athletic body kit, 18-inch wheels, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a steering wheel wrapped in leather, and the convenience of wireless smartphone charging.

Furthermore, potential buyers might want to explore the Premium package option, which offers additional enhancements such as adaptive cruise control, advanced forward-collision warning, and fully LED headlights. This combination of features and pricing makes the GT-Line a well-rounded and appealing choice for potential buyers.

Trims	Price
LXS	$26,515
GT-Line	$28,015
EX: Priced	$30,415
GT: Priced	$32,915

Features Of 2025 Kia Optima, Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Base Powertrain

• The base powertrain features a non-turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
• It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
• This combination is quick, but it can sometimes be slow to react to driver inputs.
• The engine sounds rough when pushed into its upper rpm ranges.

Turbocharged Option

• The second powertrain option includes a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine.
• It is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission.
• This combination is smoother, sharper, and quicker compared to the base powertrain.

Range-Topping Turbo Engine

• The range-topping powertrain features a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine.
• It offers a refined and pleasing driving experience.
• However, it is less powerful and notably slower in accelerating from zero to 60 mph compared to its direct competitors.

Hybrid Powertrains

• The Kia Optima offers two hybrid powertrain options:
• Conventional Hybrid: Provides standard hybrid operation.
•  Plug-in Hybrid: Offers an EPA-quoted 29 miles of electric vehicle (EV) range.
• Both hybrid options are designed to drive like regular cars, with a seamless transition between electric and gasoline power.

Ride and Handling

• The Kia Optima provides a comfortable and controlled ride, even when driving on challenging pavement.
• It maintains a good balance between comfort and handling.
• While it handles well, it’s worth noting that it loses its composure a bit earlier than some top-performing sedans in its class, such as the Accord and Camry.

Fuel Economy Assessment 

• One of the powertrains tested was the hybrid, and while it boasts passable efficiency.
• The Optima equipped with the larger turbocharged engine delivered an exceptional result, achieving 35 mpg during our highway testing. This outcome exceeded its EPA estimate by a substantial 4 mpg. 

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

• The Kia Optima interior radiates sophistication while remaining refreshingly straightforward. The cabin boasts an appealing blend of aesthetics, complemented by quality materials such as wood trim gracing the dash and doors.
• Elevating the Kia Optima interior experience is a host of upscale features, including vast interior lighting gracing the dashboard and doors, ensuring a visually pleasing ambiance. 
• Despite the driver’s seat’s elevated feel, even when adjusted to its lowest setting, the Kia Optima prioritizes comfort and ergonomic excellence. Notably, the thoughtful inclusion of a comfortable resting spot for the left foot and a floor-hinged accelerator pedal enhances the driving experience, making long journeys a breeze.
• The Kia Optima’s generosity extends to its rear seat passengers, as the vehicle offers ample legroom, ensuring that occupants in the back enjoy a comfortable ride.
• The Kia Optima practicality doesn’t stop with its seating. Its trunk boasts a spacious cargo area, providing abundant space for luggage and belongings.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Optima offers an exceptional warranty package that stands out in the automotive industry. Notably, its comprehensive coverage surpasses most competitors, second only to its corporate counterpart, Hyundai. The key warranty details include the following:

• Limited warranty: Extending for five years or 60,000 miles.
• Powertrain warranty: Providing extensive coverage for a remarkable ten years or 100,000 miles.

It’s worth noting that while Kia’s warranty is generous, it doesn’t include complimentary scheduled maintenance.

Pros and cons Of 2025 Kia Optima 

Pros

• Intuitive and user-friendly infotainment features.
• Two robust engine options to choose from.

Cons

• Falls short in agility compared to its competitors.
• Below-average fuel efficiency.

FAQs

What are the key features of the 2025 Kia Optima?

The 2025 Kia Optima offers an upscale and well-designed interior with quality materials. It includes facilities like heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a wireless charging pad. The rear seat offers ample legroom, and the trunk provides spacious cargo space.

What are the engine options for the 2025 Kia Optima?

The 2025 Kia Optima offers a range of engine options, including a non-turbocharged four-cylinder, a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder, and a range-topping turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder. It also includes hybrid powertrain options, such as a conventional hybrid and a plug-in hybrid.

Final verdict

The 2025 Kia Optima is a midsize sedan that offers a variety of powertrain options to suit different preferences. It may not be the most exciting car in its class, but it has its strengths. The interior is well-designed and offers upscale features, including heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a wireless charging pad. Rear-seat passengers will find vast legroom, and the trunk provides generous cargo space.