Even though car prices have decreased slightly, it’s still hard to find a deal. Many new models still sell for over MSRP, so a used car could be a wise choice. The 2016 Kia Optima and the 2016 Ford Fusion are two popular midsize sedans. Each is well-equipped with features and provides plenty of value. However, the Optima boasts a handful of advantages over the Fusion. 

1. The 2016 Kia Optima has user-friendly tech

The 2016 Kia Optima provides a good amount of standard equipment. Even the base LX includes satellite radio and Bluetooth, while higher trim levels have leather seating, heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The SXL Turbo brings premium features like a 10-way power-adjustable front-passenger seat with power lumbar support and bi-xenon HID headlights with high-beam assist.

In addition, the technology is user-friendly. The controls are well laid-out, with a mix of buttons and knobs that don’t all look identical. Further, the Optima’s infotainment interface and connectivity options are more intuitive and easy to use than its rival’s. By comparison, the Fusion’s infotainment system and dashboard controls are frustrating, U.S. News reports. Moreover, although the Ford sedan’s safety and reliability scores are good, most other cars in its class score higher.  

2. The 2016 Optima provides a roomier interior than the Ford Fusion

You’ll get a more spacious cabin with the 2016 Optima. It has more interior volume, with 104.8 cubic feet, versus the Fusion’s 102.8 cubic feet. That might not seem like a lot, but those 2 cubic feet translate to more legroom and overall space for riders, especially up front. 

3. The Optima has higher safety scores

The 2016 Kia Optima also has higher safety scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both the Optima and the Fusion get top ratings for front and rear crash protection. But the Fusion received four stars in side protection and rollover safety, while the Optima earned five stars in every category. As a result, the Optima got a perfect 10 for safety, while the Fusion scored 9.2.  

4. The Kia also has a higher reliability score 

Reliability is another area where the 2016 Kia Optima outshines the 2016 Ford Fusion. J.D. Power gave the Optima 3.5 out of 5 for reliability, while the Fusion received a 3.0. 

Reliability goes hand in hand with repair costs and owner satisfaction. It involves not only major mechanical repairs but also equipment such as interior switchgear and minor problems that make owning the car annoying. 

5. It gets better fuel economy than the Fusion

Even with a more powerful base engine, the 2016 Kia Optima gets better gas mileage than the Fusion. The Optima’s 2.4-liter four-cylinder produces 185 hp and gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. By comparison, the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder in the Ford Fusion makes 175 hp and gets 22 mpg/34 mpg city/highway. 

Overall, the 2016 Optima is more user-friendly than the 2016 Fusion

We think the Kia Optima is an excellent car to buy used, including the 2016 model. Based on the nearly 1,200 used car listings for the 2016 Kia Optima, the average price is $17,000, and the range is about $12,900 to $24,900, depending on the mileage, condition, and equipment.  

The 2016 Optima has more interior space and better safety scores than the Fusion. And as for ownership costs, the Kia gets better fuel economy and is more reliable. Finally, the Optima’s technology is easier to use, which makes it easier to live with daily.