2019 Kia Optima vs 2020 Lexus ES

The 2019 Kia Optima, while not as revolutionary in design as its 2011–2015 predecessor, still managed to capture attention with its signature tiger-nose grille, stylish fender-vent trim, and optional black panoramic glass roof. The variety of trim levels allowed buyers to find a look that suited their taste and budget. However, the limited availability of interior colors, except for black, made it challenging to find the perfect combination. Prices ranged from $22,900 for the base LX to $35,790 for the SX Turbo with the luxurious Limited Package, with the plug-in hybrid model topping $42,000.

The 2020 Lexus ES, once criticized for its "boring" design, evolved into a more aggressive-looking vehicle. The large spindle grille, introduced in 2016, grew even larger in the 2020 model, fitting well with the car's larger proportions. The rear featured thin taillamps and a pronounced kink at the back of the side windows, adding to its sleek appearance. Inside, the ES blended modern technology with an organic aesthetic, featuring soft-touch materials and a large infotainment screen. The ES came in various trims, including the base 350 FWD, Luxury, Ultra Luxury, and F Sport, each offering a range of standard and optional features.

The 2019 Kia Optima offered five different engines, including hybrid powertrains. The base LX and sporty S trims had a 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, while the mid-grade EX Turbo featured a 178-hp, 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder. The hybrid model returned 41 mpg in combined driving, and the plug-in hybrid provided up to 28 miles of pure electric range. The SX Turbo trim, with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 245 hp and 260 pound-feet of torque, delivered smooth, linear acceleration. A 6-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, with four driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart. The SX Turbo's unique rack-mounted steering system provided better feel, though it lacked crispness on mountain roads. The sport-tuned suspension offered a firm yet comfortable ride, making the Optima enjoyable to drive.

The 2020 Lexus ES came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Lexus claimed a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 131 mph. The ES provided confident acceleration and smooth highway driving. The ride was comfortable and refined, with the suspension absorbing bumps without feeling wallow-y. The F Sport trim offered an optional Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) with adjustable dampers, enhancing the driving experience with modes like Sport+ for a more spirited drive. The ES's steering was light but precise, and the paddle shifters added a touch of sportiness.

The 2019 Kia Optima excelled as a daily driver, offering comfort, simplicity, and ample storage. Controls were logically laid out and easy to use, with buttons and knobs limiting interaction with the touchscreen. The spacious interior featured a 15.9-cubic-foot trunk and plenty of storage cubbies. The front seats offered various power adjustments, heating, and ventilation, with the Limited Package adding luxurious Nappa leather and heated rear seats. Backseat legroom was impressive, with good thigh support and a comfortable backrest angle. The Smart Trunk feature was convenient, though it could open unintentionally.

The 2020 Lexus ES boasted a spacious cabin with ample head- and legroom in both rows. The front seats could slide back without compromising rear-seat legroom, and rear-seat headroom was improved in the 2019 redesign. The front doors had deep pockets, and the center console featured multiple storage trays and a reasonably sized bin. The ES offered 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space, mid-pack for the midsize luxury segment. However, the rear seats did not fold down, limiting space for larger items.

The 2019 Kia Optima came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen display, UVO technology, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Siri Eyes Free, voice recognition, a USB port, and a reversing camera. Higher trims added satellite radio, UVO eServices, and a smartphone app for remote access. The SX Turbo included a navigation system, HD Radio, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with easy-to-find commands and flexible voice-recognition technology.

The 2020 Lexus ES featured the Lexus Remote Touch system, controlling the standard 8-inch or available 12.3-inch display. While not a touchscreen, the Remote Touch pad was intuitive once presets were set. The system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with CarPlay taking up the entire screen for easy navigation. The ES came with a 10-speaker premium audio system, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. A head-up display was also available, offering crisp graphics and customization.

The 2019 Kia Optima included standard forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Rear parking-assist sensors and a driver-monitoring system were also standard. Upgrades included adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system. The Optima received top ratings from the IIHS and 5-star ratings from the federal government, except for a 4-star rating for front passenger protection in a frontal-impact collision.

The 2020 Lexus ES came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also featured pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keep assist, and lane-tracing assist for limited semi-autonomous driving. The ES included front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, stability control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.