Kia Optima vs BMW 3 Series

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 get the perfect combination. Prices ranged from $22,900 for the base LX to $35,790 for the SX Turbo with the Limited Package, and the plug-in hybrid model topped $42,000. The SX Turbo trim, with its blacked-out exterior, 18-inch aluminum wheels, red brake calipers, and white pearl paint, looked like a stealthy sports sedan. Inside, black leather with red inserts, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and upgraded instrumentation added to its sporty appeal.

In contrast, the 2020 BMW 3 Series evoked a sense of awe similar to that of majestic humpback whales. The car's lidded headlights, bulging hood, wide air intakes, and oversized grille gave it an aquatic appearance. Despite its high starting price of $40,750 for the base 330i and $56,000 for the M340i with xDrive, the 3 Series was praised for its driving dynamics. The M340i xDrive test car, loaded with nearly $14,000 in options, brought the total to $69,570. The M340i trim, with its robust turbocharged engine, rear-biased xDrive system, and M Sport brakes, offered an exhilarating driving experience. The interior featured off-white Ivory leather contrasting with a black cabin and Tanzanite Blue exterior paint, adding to its luxurious feel. The latest 3 Series also showcased improved quality and a more purposeful appearance.

The 2019 Kia Optima offered five different engines, including hybrid powertrains. The base LX and sporty S trims featured a 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, while the mid-grade EX Turbo had a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 178 hp. The hybrid model returned 41 mpg in combined driving, and the plug-in hybrid offered up to 28 miles of electric range. The SX Turbo trim, with its 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivered 245 hp and 260 pound-feet of torque. The 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, although it lacked crispness on mountain roads. The sport-tuned suspension offered a firm ride, but excess body motion reduced confidence on twisty roads. The SX Turbo averaged 23.5 mpg, just shy of the EPA's estimate of 24 mpg.

The 2020 BMW 3 Series, particularly the M340i trim, featured significant structural and suspension changes, enhancing its handling capabilities. The turbocharged 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine produced 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The M340i's variable sport steering and rear M Sport differential contributed to its tossable nature. The 8-speed automatic transmission, while not a manual, offered launch control, propelling the M340i xDrive to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. The car's various driving modes and paddle shifters provided an engaging driving experience. Despite the lack of a manual transmission, the M340i's sport transmission and driving dynamics made it a joy to drive.

The 2019 Kia Optima excelled as a daily driver, offering comfort, simplicity, and ample storage. The controls were logically laid out, with buttons and knobs limiting interaction with the touchscreen infotainment system. The spacious interior included a 15.9-cubic-foot trunk and numerous storage cubbies. The front seats offered power adjustments, heating, and ventilation, with the Limited Package adding Nappa leather and other luxury touches. Backseat legroom was impressive, with good thigh support and a comfortable backrest angle. The Smart Trunk feature automatically opened the trunk lid when standing behind the car with the key fob, though it could be turned off if needed.

The 2020 BMW 3 Series featured supportive front seats that held occupants in place during spirited driving while remaining comfortable for long periods. The M340i xDrive test car included high-quality leather, front-seat heaters, and a heated steering wheel. Rear-seat entry and exit were awkward, but once inside, the seats provided excellent support. The controls, while sometimes cryptic, included a proper stereo volume knob and a digital instrumentation display. The widescreen infotainment system and iDrive were user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and gesture control. Storage space was generous, with a covered bin for a wireless smartphone charger and a 17-cubic-foot trunk, though it appeared smaller than a typical family sedan's.

The 2019 Kia Optima came with a generous standard infotainment system, including an 8-inch touchscreen, UVO technology, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Siri Eyes Free, voice recognition, a USB port, and a reversing camera. The Optima S and EX Turbo added satellite radio and UVO eServices, which ran on the smartphone's data plan. The SX Turbo trim included a navigation system, HD Radio, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. The UVO eServices smartphone app allowed remote access to certain vehicle functions and remote start.

The 2020 BMW 3 Series featured the latest iDrive infotainment system with a touchscreen display, natural voice recognition, and gesture control. The system offered four main ways to interact, including a knob and buttons on the center console. The touchscreen was user-friendly, with intuitive menu pathways. Gesture control allowed volume adjustment and radio station changes with simple hand movements. The "Hey, BMW" voice recognition system responded to natural commands for navigation, climate control, and more. The head-up display was visible even with polarized sunglasses, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2019 Kia Optima included standard driver-assistance and collision-avoidance systems, making it a great value for a family-size car. Standard features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Optima received top crash-test ratings from the IIHS and the federal government, with the exception of an Acceptable rating for child safety seat LATCH anchor accessibility and a 4-star rating for front passenger protection in a frontal-impact collision.

The 2020 BMW 3 Series required two Driving Assistance option packages to equip all the latest ADAS. While the systems were accurate, they lacked smoothness. The lane-keeping assist system was abrupt, reminding drivers to stay attentive. The 3 Series received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS when equipped with adaptive full LED headlights.