Following last year’s refresh, the Kia Optima gets upgraded technology and subtle interior updates for the 2015 model year in the United States. The mid-size sedan gets the next-generation of Kia’s UVO eServices and a number of interior refinements meant, “To improve ergonomics and offer a more premium experience.”
The 2015 Kia Optima remains available in LX, EX, SX, SX Turbo and SX-Limited trims for the new model year, but the EX, SX and SX Turbo get the optional next-generation UVO eServices (standard on SX-Limited) that offers additional features “designed to keep the owner better informed, from behind the wheel or remotely, via his or her own smartphone,” as Kia explains.
The voice-activated system gets four new features, including Geo Fencing, Driving Score, Speed Alerts and Curfew Alerts. A version of UVO eServices without the four new features is available as an option on the base LX grade and offers telematics and infotainment systems including My POI, eServices Guide, 911 Connect, Car Care Web, Parking Minder and Vehicle Diagnostics.
To improve ergonomics, the steering wheel-mounted buttons for the cruise control have been repositioned on the right-side spoke. Other interior updates include new brushed bezels for the D-shaped steering wheel and contrasting white stitching in the SX-Limited, as well as a black cloth option for the LX.
The 2015 Kia Optima also gets a new Smokey Blue metallic paint, while Sparkling Silver and Platinum Graphite replace Bright Silver and Metal Bronze, respectively. Furthermore, the acoustic laminated windshield, offered on SX-Limited on the 2014 MY, is offered across the entire Optima lineup for 2015.
By Dan Mihalascu
PHOTO GALLERY
