2019 Kia Optima Ex Redesign and Price
The 2019 Kia Optima Ex has a lot going for it, including a hybrid model, but you’d be wise to cross-shop its rivals as well. Additional new features for the 2019 Kia Optima Ex include a heated steering wheel, and optional heated and power operated front seats on lower-trim models with cloth upholstery. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional. In addition to the gas-only model, the 2019 Kia Optima Ex is also available as a hybrid with all-wheel drive as standard.
YOU’LL LIKE
- Many trims to choose from
- Comfortable and spacious interior
- Active safety features come standard
YOU WON’T LIKE
- Choppy ride in SE trim
- Some cheap hard plastic interior components
- Sloppy handling and steering
In a 2018 comparison test that included the other cars, the 2019 Kia Optima Ex placed fifth. Handling also proved to be another 2019 Kia Optima Ex weak spot and we found the steering to be numb.
The 2019 Kia Optima Ex, on the other hand, is a better package, as we noted in a 2017 First Test, thanks to its smooth powertrain and well-calibrated brakes that smoothly transition between regenerative and mechanical braking. However, since it isn’t a plug-in hybrid, the 2019 Kia Optima Ex doesn’t have much EV mode range and can only travel around 0.5 miles on electricity.A rear view camera with rear parking sensors is now standard on all models.
The car is the only 2019 Kia Optima Ex trim level that can be had with a cool two-tone exterior color scheme. The ride itself was smooth, and road imperfections were barely felt.”