The third generation of the Kia Optima was launched at the 2010 New York International Auto Show.
It had the same technical platform as the Hyundai Sonata or the i40, featuring an all-wheel independent suspension with a front-engine and a front-wheel-drive architecture.

Designed at Kia’s studios in Frankfurt, Germany and Irvine, California, the Optima is longer, wider and lower than the Magentis it replaces. The sportier profile look is signed by Peter Schreyer, following a new design language featured on the Kia Forte and Kia Sorento, and using the Korean carmaker’s new corporate grille, known as the Tiger Nose.

The Optima’s engine lineup has been replaced with the universal GDI 2.4-liter 4-cylinder unit, either mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with Eco dash display, or a 6-speed manual transmission. On other markets outside the U.S., there are other engines also available, such as an inline-4 with a 2.0-liter displacement gasoline or two turbodiesel variants with a 1.7-liter and a 2.0-liter displacement, respectively. These can also be mated either with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The interior of the Optima features iPod connectivity and Bluetooth. In 2013, Kia offered a UVO infotainment system built in cooperation with Microsoft, with a larger touchscreen and integrated backup camera. It also features, depending on trim level and options, heated rear seats, a navigation system, heated and cooled front seats and a panoramic moonroof.