Kia Optima EX: Features explained

Kia Malaysia has added another model to its vast product lineup in the country. This time, however, it isn’t exactly a new car, rather a new variant of an existing car. It’s the new Kia Optima EX. This variant is going to share the space with the GT variant of the Optima. Kia has, perhaps, introduced the new EX model to make the Optima more affordable when compared to the range-topping GT model.

The Kia Optima price for the EX variant is RM 139,888 which is 30k bucks cheaper than the GT that costs RM 168,888. So what are the changes have been done in the Optima EX and do they justify the price tag? Let’s find out in this story where we are going to explain some of the features of this new car.

Engine

The new Kia Optima EX specs sheet shows a 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated engine which has been tuned to churn out 163 PS of max power and generates 196 Nm of peak torque. The transmission here is a 6-speed automatic unit. Unlike the GT model, which comes with a more powerful 2.0 T-GDi diesel engine with 245 PS and 350 Nm, the 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated engine seems to be a bit underpowered. Kia must have made this decision based on some research, and it would be interesting to see how it actually performs in the real world.

Design

Kia didn’t change much when it comes to the design of the Optima EX. And we’re glad that it didn’t because the Optima is already a good looking car. However, we do appreciate the fact that Kia tried to freshen up things a bit by adding a few new elements. The EX gets a slightly revised twin projector headlight setup cased in the same old shape and design. We reckon this setup would enhance the visibility at night. Also, there is the ‘vertical intaglio grille’ which replaces the old horizontal design.

Kia has also put together a new air intake at the front bumper that has horizontal bars instead of the mesh pattern that comes in the GT model. This presentation along with the vertical grille is a good combination. However, we do get GT-inspired LED fog lamps in the EX variant. The rear end of the Optima EX receives a set of LED combination tail lights which are as striking as ever. And the side profile of the car is maintained by the gorgeous 17-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels.

Interior

To keep things sporty in the cabin, Kia went ahead with the best and safest theme - black. We get black fabric seats that offer great support and comfort. Talking about the seats, the driver seat in the Optima EX is electrically adjustable and has a memory function so that you can save your favorite driving position and not worry about giving your car to someone else to drive. For fulfilling your entertainment needs, there is a 7-inch infotainment system that supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay; we appreciate it. It also has a 360-degree Around View Monitor feature which, as the name suggests, allows you to have a full 360-degree view around your car. The rest of the features remain untouched which means you’re going to get the same build and material quality as before.

So, these were the new additions that you’d find in the new Kia Optima EX. Apart from them, Kia is also providing a 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty which should lure in more potential customers. You can buy the new Optima EX in Aurora Black, Snow White Pearl, and Platinum Graphite. Do let us know what your opinions about the new EX variant of the Optima are.