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2018 Kia Optima: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2018 Kia Optima is the addition of the sport-styled S trim. It is otherwise a light-update year, with more standard touchscreen technology and safety equipment rather than a redesign or mechanical overhaul.
About the 2018 Kia Optima
4th generation Optima (2016-2020), third year before the 2019 refresh; Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid versions are second-year versions of the same generation.
Kia positions the Optima as a style-forward midsize sedan with more variety than many rivals. In 2018 the range stretches from a straightforward gas sedan to a smaller-turbo model, a sport-styled S, a stronger SX Turbo, and electrified Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid versions. Across those versions, Kia leans on sharp exterior design, a roomy cabin, easy smartphone integration, and a more upscale feel than shoppers might expect from a mainstream midsize sedan.
The 2018 lineup ranges from the straightforward LX to the comfort-focused EX, while the new S adds sportier bodywork and a more upscale cabin. The SX Turbo is the performance version, with a 245-hp turbo engine, sport-tuned suspension, panoramic sunroof, and heated and ventilated front seats. Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models emphasize fuel-saving powertrains, while Hybrid Premium and EX trims add everyday comfort and convenience features.
What changed, by category
Styling
The new S trim brings a sport-styled front bumper, rear spoiler, 17-inch wheels, LED fog lights, and sport LED taillights. The prior Limited trim is no longer separate, with Kia offering its upscale content through an SX Limited package. Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models receive minor trim and color adjustments, and the gas EX switches to single-projector headlights.
Safety
Gas Optima trims gain standard blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking assist. Driver-assistance equipment on the Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid remains package-based.
Tech
A touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard throughout the 2018 Optima family. The LX Turbo also gains a standard power driver's seat, while the SX Turbo adds a standard panoramic sunroof and ventilated front seats, along with other comfort upgrades.
2018 Kia Optima specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd Sportmatic | Auto, 6-Spd Sportmatic / Automatic, 6-Spd w/H-Matic | Auto, 6-Spd Sportmatic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/H-Matic | Auto, 7-Spd Dual-Clutch | Auto, 6-Spd Sportmatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas / Plug-In Hybrid / Hybrid | Gas | Hybrid | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 24–39 mpg | 24 mpg | 39 mpg | 28 mpg | 22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 34 mpg | 34–46 mpg | 34 mpg | 46 mpg | 37 mpg | 31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 185 hp | 185–202 hp | 185 hp | 192 hp | 178 hp | 245 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 140–178 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.9 cu-ft | 9.9–15.9 cu-ft | 15.9 cu-ft | 13.4 cu-ft | 15.9 cu-ft | 15.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.6 in | 35.6 in | 35.6 in | 35.6 in | 35.6 in | 35.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| MPGe Combined | 103 (Plug-In Hybrid) | |||||
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||||
| Alarm System | ||||||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||||
| Park Assist | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| 360 Camera | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||
| LED Headlights | ||||||
| LED Tail Lights | ||||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||||
| LCD Instrument Cluster | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Premium Audio | ||||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||||
| Subwoofer | ||||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||||||
| Rear Air Conditioning | ||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||||
| Power Steering | ||||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||||
| Rear Window Shades | ||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2018 Kia Optima?
The biggest change is the new S trim, a style-focused middle model with sport body pieces, 17-inch wheels, LED exterior lighting, a power driver's seat, and push-button start. The rest of the updates mainly involve more standard technology and safety equipment.
Is the 2018 Kia Optima a redesign?
No, the 2018 Optima is not a redesign. It is a light update within the generation introduced for 2016, with a new S trim and equipment changes but no major mechanical or structural overhaul.
What safety features became standard on the 2018 Kia Optima?
Gas-powered 2018 Optima trims gained standard blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking assist. The Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid did not receive the same lineup-wide change; their driver-assistance hardware remained tied to packages.
Did the 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid change much from 2017?
No, the 2018 Optima Hybrid changed very little from 2017. Its core hybrid powertrain and infotainment setup carried over, with only minor trim and color adjustments called out for the year.
Is the 2018 Kia Optima meaningfully different from the 2017 model?
Yes, but the differences are modest rather than transformative. The 2018 gas lineup adds the S trim, makes smartphone integration standard, and gives gas trims standard blind-spot monitoring and rear parking aids, while the engines carry over unchanged.
2018 Kia Optima Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Kia Optima.
4.1
2018 Kia Optima
(301 reviews)
“Optima is a great value. Has nice features and stying and comes with one of the best warranties available. It's very roomy and accommodates taller people very well. Initial quality seams very good. I'm impressed so far and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to family and friends.”
“My Kia has been easy to drive, like the rear view camera, not happy regarding flat tire repair, didn't even have a doughnut in trunk. Tire had to be removed taken to tire shop for repair and then brought back to be mounted again. Would wish they had a spare for a replacement. Otherwise very happy with the vehicle.”
Sources
- kiamedia.com — Models / Optima / 2018
- kiamedia.com — Optima / 2018 / Whatsnew
- kiamedia.com — Optima Hybrid / 2018 / Whatsnew
- kiamedia.com — Models / Optima Phev / 2018
- kiamedia.com — Optima / 2018 / Features
- kiamedia.com — Models / Optima / 2019
- kiamedia.com — Optima / 2017 / Whatsnew
- kiamedia.com — Optima Hybrid / 2018 / Features
- kiamedia.com — Optima Phev / 2018 / Features
- kiamedia.com — Models / Optima Hybrid / 2019
- kiamedia.com — Optima Phev / 2019 / Whatsnew
- kiamedia.com — Models / Optima Hybrid / 2018