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Photos of the Kia Optima

Kia Optima Photos: Kia Optima front quarter view

A handsome car with a strong stance, but no longer a striking one. Strong front corners.

Kia Optima Photos: 2013 Kia Optima front quarter view

Kia took more risks last time.

Kia Optima Photos: Nissan Maxima front quarter view

The Maxima's styling is more in-you-face, but less well proportioned.

Kia Optima Photos: Hyundai Sonata front quarter view

The related Sonata has more restrained styling. But the two appear more similar than before.

Kia Optima Photos: Kia Optima front view

Cleaned-up face.

Kia Optima Photos: Kia Optima side view

The overhangs appear a bit tighter than before, but remain far from tight. Looks long.

Kia Optima Photos: Kia Optima rear quarter view

The C-pillar continues to be the most interesting part of the exterior. Third window moved off door.

Kia Optima Photos: 2013 Kia Optima rear quarter view

The previous Optima had the third window on the door. Signature chrome strip cuts across the pillar.

Kia Optima Photos: Kia Optima SX interior

Nearly passes as upscale. Steering wheel hub and center console trim don't contribute.

Kia Optima Photos: Nissan Maxima SR interior

The Maxima's interior is more exciting, and a little better finished.

Kia Optima Photos: Kia Optima instrument panel full

Clear BMW influence in the shape of the instrument panel and center stack details.

Kia Optima Photos: Hyundai Sonata instrument panel full

The related Sonata has a similar instrument panel, but it's less stylish and appears much cheaper.

Kia Optima Photos: Kia Optima instrument panel

The new instrument panel might be less interesting, but it's ergonomically superior.

Kia Optima Photos: 2013 Kia Optima instrument panel

Haphazard controls in the previous generation Optima.

Kia Optima Photos: Kia Optima around-view camera system

The around-view camera, only on the SX Limited, makes parking safer and even fun.

Kia Optima Photos: Kia Optima SX driver seat

Diamond-quilted upholstery as in some far more expensive cars. But not as comfortable as it appears.

Kia Optima Photos: Kia Optima back seat

Abundant rear legroom, but scarce rear headroom.

Kia Optima Photos: Kia Optima trunk

As in competitors, a roomy trunk.

Kia Optima Photos: Kia Optima SX engine

245-horse 2.0T. The new Optima is also offered with a 185 hp 2.4 and a 178hp 1.6T. Hybrid in 2017.

Kia Optima Photos: Kia Optima SX engine uncovered

Not eye candy. A decent turbocharged four, but it doesn't compare to a good V6.