| Model Year | 2012 | 2010 | |
| Model | Kia Optima | Toyota Avalon | |
| Engine | turbocharged 2.0L I4 DOHC-4v 274 hp@6000 269 lb-ft@1750 |
3.5L V6 DOHC-4v 268 hp@6200 248 lb-ft@4700 |
|
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic | |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | |
| Body | 4dr Sedan | 4dr Sedan | |
| Difference | |||
| Wheelbase | 110.0 in | 111.0 in | -1 in |
| Length | 190.7 in | 197.2 in | -6.5 in |
| Width | 72.1 in | 72.8 in | -0.7 in |
| Height | 57.3 in | 58.5 in | -1.2 in |
| Curb Weight | 3385 lb. | 3495 lb. | -110 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.5 gal. | 18.5 gal. | 0 gal. |
| Headroom, Row 1 | 40.0 in | 38.8 in | 1.2 in |
| Shoulder Room, Row 1 | 57.2 in | 59.4 in | -2.2 in |
| Hip Room, Row 1 | 54.7 in | 55.8 in | -1.1 in |
| Legroom, Row 1 | 45.5 in | 41.3 in | 4.2 in |
| Headroom, Row 2 | 37.6 in | 37.5 in | 0.1 in |
| Shoulder Room, Row 2 | 55.7 in | 58.2 in | -2.5 in |
| Hip Room, Row 2 | 54.5 in | 56.2 in | -1.7 in |
| Legroom, Row 2 | 34.7 in | 40.9 in | -6.2 in |
| Total Legroom | 80.2 in (over 2 rows) | 82.2 in (over 2 rows) | -2 in |
| Cargo Volume | 15.4 ft3 | 14.4 ft3 | 1 ft3 |
| 2012 Kia Optima Seat Room and Comfort: Cons | ||
| Year | Comment | |
| The Optima's rear seat is comfortably shaped, and includes plenty of room for passengers to stretch out their legs. Heads are a different matter. Though I'm only 5-9, if I still had much hair it would have been brushing the headliner. The Fusion provides a little more rear headroom, but less knee room. Buyers seeking a rear seat suitable for large adults won't be happy with this aspect of either car. see full Kia Optima review | ||
None of our members have yet commented on the seat room and comfort of the 2012 Kia Optima.
| 2010 Toyota Avalon Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
| Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
| 2011 | 4dr Sedan 268-horsepower 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD |
Heated seats are wonderful in winter. Dual zone heater/air conditioner a plus for driver/passenger comfort. Back-up camera is handy for checking what the mirrors don't pick up. Quiet, smooth engine/transmission. Comfortable seats are easily adjustable. Easy access and good leg-room in rear seats. see full Toyota Avalon review |
| 2011 | 4dr Sedan 268-horsepower 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD |
Heated seats are wonderful in winter. Dual zone heater/air conditioner a plus for driver/passenger comfort. Back-up camera is handy for checking what the mirrors don't pick up. Quiet, smooth engine/transmission. Comfortable seats are easily adjustable. Easy access and good leg-room in rear seats. see full Toyota Avalon review |
| 2010 Toyota Avalon Seat Room and Comfort: Cons | ||
| Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
| 2009 | 4dr Sedan 268-horsepower 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD |
Seats are too short. Toyota seats are generally not comfortable, but for a car in this price range I would have expected better. see full Toyota Avalon review |