Significantly refreshed last year, the 2015 Optima offers upgraded technology

•Next-generation navigation system enhances UVO functionality of the award-winning telematics and infotainment system

•Subtle interior updates improve ergonomics and appearance

IRVINE, May 14, 2014 – The 2015 Optima midsize sedan, built in the U.S.* at Kia's West Point, Ga., facility (KMMG), arrives with the next-generation of UVO eServices1 and a number of subtle interior refinements meant to improve ergonomics and offer a more premium experience. Significantly updated last year, the 2015 Optima remains available in LX, EX, SX, SX Turbo and SX-Limited trims for the new model year.

Available optionally on the EX, SX, SX Turbo and standard on the SX-Limited, the next-generation UVO eServices offers additional features designed to keep the owner better informed, from behind the wheel or remotely, via his or her own Smartphone2. Four new UVO eServices are integrated into the voice-activated system, 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 LX and continues to offer a wide range of telematics and infotainment systems including My POI, eServices Guide, 911 Connect3, Car Care Web, Parking Minder4 and Vehicle Diagnostics5.

To improve functionality for the driver, the steering wheel-mounted buttons6 for the cruise control have been repositioned on the right-side spoke. The sporty D-shaped steering wheel found in the SX-Limited gets new brushed bezels, and the stitching is now offered in a contrasting white. Also new is a black cloth option for the LX.

Outside, the 2015 Optima is now available with a Smokey Blue (late availability) metallic paint, and Sparkling Silver and Platinum Graphite replace Bright Silver and Metal Bronze, respectively. The acoustic laminated windshield, found last year only on SX-Limited, is offered across the Optima lineup for 2015.

The 2015 Optima continues to offer two powerful Theta II powerplants featuring gasoline direct injection (GDI) technology: a 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder or a 2.0-liter GDI turbo engine. The 2.4-liter GDI engine is available on LX, EX and SX models while the more robust 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine is offered exclusively in the SX and SX Limited. This turbocharged unit delivers V6-type power with a four-cylinder's efficiency. Each engine choice is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission featuring Sportmatic® shifting. Drive Mode Select (DMS), which offers owners a customizable driving experience by adjusting transmission shift points and steering weight, remains exclusive to the SX Turbo and SX Limited.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA proudly serves as the 'Official Automotive Partner' of the NBA and LPGA and surpassed the 500,000 annual sales mark for the second consecutive year in 2013 following the launch of seven all-new or significantly redesigned vehicles. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles, including the rear-drive K900** flagship sedan, Cadenza premium sedan, Sorento CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Sportage compact CUV, Optima midsize sedan, Optima Hybrid, the Forte compact sedan, Forte5 and Forte Koup, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and the Sedona midsize multi-purpose vehicle, through a network of more than 765 dealers across the United States. Kia's U.S. manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia, builds the Optima* and Sorento* and is responsible for the creation of more than 14,000 plant and supplier jobs.

by Kia