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Like some other V6 cars here, the V6 Optima is held back in
the rankings here less for its own faults than for the existence of a
4-cylinder version that is a much better car for the money. The 2.7-liter V6
is smooth and quiet and it offers sufficient power and decent fuel economy,
but it’s not so much more refined and powerful than the car’s standard
2.4-liter I4 to be worth the price premium and the gas mileage deficit.
The Optima has a somewhat firm but well-controlled and
comfortable ride. It handles well, with responsive steering and
well-controlled body roll, but it isn’t exactly fun to drive. The 2.7-liter
V6 offers good power by this group’s standards, but doesn’t offer much more
thrust than the good 4-cylinders in some competitors, or in the
less-expensive versions of the Optima itself. The engine is smooth and
quiet, and wind and road noise are well-suppressed. Gas mileage is good for
a V6, until you consider its I4-level acceleration.
Inside, the Optima is roomy and comfortable. The front
seats are well-shaped and supportive, and while the rear isn’t especially
roomy, the seat is mounted high and angled properly to make the best use of
the available space.
 The
interior is very nice for this price point, well-constructed using
high-quality materials. The instruments are well laid-out and simple to use,
and the gauges are large and clear. Drivers sit comfortably and have
excellent visibility. Entry/exit is easy enough, but larger rear-seat
footwells would help a bit. The trunk isn’t particularly roomy, but it’s
well-shaped.
The Optima reviewed here came in well-equipped at $18,180,
with active head restraints, a tire-pressure monitor, alloy wheels, and
traction and stability control.
Overall, the Optima is a very pleasant, comfortable, and
well-priced car. But the V6 isn’t worth the price premium over its
4-cylinder counterpart.
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