2013 Kia Optima Named the Most Affordable Midsize Sedan

CHICAGO--July 30, 2013: Cars.com has named the 2013 Kia Optima to be the most affordable midsize sedan. Contenders had to be equipped with equipment like automatic transmission, cruise control, a USB connection, Bluetooth, power windows, a power driver's seat and a rearview camera. Taking into account these features and the five-year estimated fuel cost, Cars.com compiled a list of 10 midsize sedans, ranked from most to least affordable, with the Kia Optima taking the top spot.

"The Optima topped the list because of its combination of great features, low price and impressive estimated five-year fuel cost," said Patrick Olsen, Cars.com's Editor-in-Chief. "With an estimated $9,750 in fuel cost over five years, the Optima topped out at just $32,975, which is more than $3,000 lower than the average midsize sedan for the same period of time."

Model & Trim Level

Options

Tested Price

Fuel Cost

Total

2013 Kia Optima LX

Convenience Plus Package

$23,225

$9,750

$32,975

2013 Nissan Altima SV

No additional package

$24,870

$8,750

$33,620

2013 Honda Accord Sport

No additional package

$24,980

$9,000

$33,980

2014 Mazda6 Touring

No additional package

$25,490

$9,000

$34,490

2013 Kia Optima Hybrid LX

Convenience Package

$27,400

$7,250

$34,650

2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE

Technology Package

$28,990

$5,750

$34,740

2014 Subaru Legacy

Premium w/ moonroof

$25,535

$10,000

$35,535

2013 Chevrolet Malibu 1 LT

Power Convenience Package

$25,260

$10,500

$35,760

2013 Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE

Convenience Package

$29,160

$6,750

$35,910

2014 Ford Fusion SE 2.5

MyFord Touch Technology Package

$25,790

$10,500

$36,290

"The midsize sedan remains one of the most popular segments in the U.S.," said Olsen. "They serve as great cars for families, commuters, road trippers and more. Because of this, carmakers offer a dizzying amount of styles and options, but with differing content that can make it hard for shoppers to compare apples to apples. That's why we've put this list together, so that shoppers can understand where the most value is before they head to their dealer."