A handsome car with a strong stance, but no longer a striking one. Strong front corners. Kia took more risks last time.
The Maxima's styling is more in-you-face, but less well proportioned. The related Sonata has more restrained styling. But the two appear more similar than before.
Cleaned-up face. The overhangs appear a bit tighter than before, but remain far from tight. Looks long.
The C-pillar continues to be the most interesting part of the exterior. Third window moved off door. The previous Optima had the third window on the door. Signature chrome strip cuts across the pillar.
Nearly passes as upscale. Steering wheel hub and center console trim don't contribute. The Maxima's interior is more exciting, and a little better finished.
Clear BMW influence in the shape of the instrument panel and center stack details. The related Sonata has a similar instrument panel, but it's less stylish and appears much cheaper.
The new instrument panel might be less interesting, but it's ergonomically superior. Haphazard controls in the previous generation Optima.
The around-view camera, only on the SX Limited, makes parking safer and even fun. Diamond-quilted upholstery as in some far more expensive cars. But not as comfortable as it appears.
245-horse 2.0T. The new Optima is also offered with a 185 hp 2.4 and a 178hp 1.6T. Hybrid in 2017. Not eye candy. A decent turbocharged four, but it doesn't compare to a good V6.