What Is 2017 Optima Premium Package

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The 2017 Optima Premium Package transforms the mid-level EX trim into a near-luxury sedan for a fraction of the cost. It adds leather seats, a sunroof, heated seating, and advanced safety tech without the high price of the SX or SXL models.

Shopping for a used midsize sedan can feel like walking through a maze. You want comfort. You want tech. But you do not want a payment that looks like a mortgage. The 2017 Kia Optima is a star in this class. It looks sharp. It drives well. It has a great warranty history. But the trim levels can confuse buyers. There is the LX. The EX. The SX. The SXL. Then there are packages. The most famous package is the 2017 Optima Premium Package. This specific option group is the secret weapon for smart buyers. It takes the sweet-spot EX trim and loads it with features usually reserved for cars costing ten grand more. This guide breaks down exactly what it is, what it includes, and why it might be the exact right car for your driveway.

Think of the 2017 Optima like a really good burger. The EX trim is the high-quality patty and bun. It is solid on its own. The 2017 Optima Premium Package is the bacon, cheese, and special sauce. It does not change the engine. It does not change the chassis. It just makes the experience significantly better. We will look at every item on the window sticker. We will compare it to the trims above and below it. We will talk about what to check for if you are buying one used today. By the end, you will know if this specific configuration is your perfect match.

Key Takeaways

• Target Trim: The package was primarily offered on the 2017 Kia Optima EX trim level.
• Core Features: It includes leather seating surfaces, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a ventilated driver seat.
• Tech Upgrades: Buyers get an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, smart trunk release, and proximity key entry with push-button start.
• Value Proposition: It bridges the gap between the base EX and the turbocharged SX, offering luxury feel without the turbo maintenance costs.
• Original Cost: The package added roughly $2,900 to the MSRP when new.
• Used Market Win: Today, it represents one of the best value propositions in the used midsize sedan segment.
• Safety Bonus: Many packaged vehicles also received the Advanced Technology Package, adding blind-spot detection and lane change assist.

What Exactly Is the 2017 Optima Premium Package

The 2017 Optima Premium Package is an optional equipment group. It was not a standalone trim level. You could not walk onto a lot and order a “Premium Package” model off the factory floor without selecting the EX trim first. It was an add-on. Think of it like adding a suite of apps to your phone. The phone (the EX trim) works fine. The apps (the package) make it premium.

Kia designed this package to solve a specific problem. The base LX was too basic. The SX had a turbo engine that raised the price and required premium fuel for best performance. The EX with the 2.4-liter engine hit the fuel economy and price sweet spot. But the EX cloth seats and lack of sunroof felt cheap to some buyers. The package fixed that. It bundled the most desired comfort and convenience features into one click. It turned a mainstream family sedan into a car that feels like an entry-level luxury vehicle. This strategy was very popular. Many dealers ordered their EX stock with this package pre-installed because it sold faster.

The Official Window Sticker Breakdown

When you look at a used listing, the seller might just say “Loaded EX.” You need to know the specific codes. The package code varied slightly by region but the content was consistent. Here is the definitive list of what the 2017 Optima Premium Package included:

• Leather Seat Trim: Seating surfaces upgraded from cloth to leather. This includes the door armrests and center console lid usually.
• Panoramic Sunroof: A large glass roof that slides and tilts. It has a power sunshade.
• Heated Front Seats: Three temperature settings for driver and passenger.
• Ventilated Driver Seat: Active cooling fan in the driver seat bottom and back. This is a standout feature for this price point.
• 10-Way Power Driver Seat: Includes power lumbar support. The base EX was often 8-way or manual lumbar.
• 8-Way Power Passenger Seat: Base EX passenger seat was usually manual.
• Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror: Dims automatically for headlights behind you.
• HomeLink Garage Door Opener: Integrated into the mirror. Three programmable buttons.
• Smart Key with Push Button Start: Keep the fob in your pocket. Touch the door handle to unlock. Press the button to start.
• Smart Trunk Release: Stand behind the trunk with the key in your pocket. The trunk pops open automatically after a few seconds.
• LED Interior Lighting: Brighter, whiter map lights and dome lights.
• Electrochromic Compass Mirror: Shows compass direction in the mirror.

That is a massive list for a single option code. It touches almost every sense. You feel the leather. You feel the heated and cooled air. You see the sky through the panoramic glass. You touch the door handle and the car unlocks. It changes the daily interaction with the car completely.

Did You Know The Package Had A Twin

Here is a fact many shoppers miss. The 2017 Optima Premium Package often traveled with a sibling. It was called the Advanced Technology Package. They were separate option codes. But dealers loved ordering them together. If you find a used 2017 Optima EX with the Premium Package, check for these extra safety features. They indicate the Tech Package was also added:

• Blind Spot Detection (BSD) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
• Lane Change Assist (LCA).
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW).
• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian Detection.
• Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop/Go capability.
• High Beam Assist (HBA).

Finding a car with both packages is the “Holy Grail” configuration. It gives you the comfort of the Premium Package and the active safety brain of the Tech Package. It essentially matches the SXL trim safety suite but keeps the reliable naturally aspirated engine.

Which Trim Gets the Premium Package

The 2017 Optima Premium Package was exclusive to the EX trim. You could not get it on the LX. You could not get it on the SX or SXL because those trims already included most of these features as standard. This exclusivity is important. It defines the target buyer. The buyer wants the 2.4L GDI 4-cylinder engine. They want the 6-speed automatic. They want the 32 MPG highway rating. But they refuse to sit on cloth seats. They refuse to live without a sunroof.

Visual guide about 2017 Kia Optima premium interior leather sunroof

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The EX Trim Baseline

To understand the package, you must understand the donor car. The 2017 Optima EX came standard with:

• 2.4L 4-Cylinder Engine (185 hp / 178 lb-ft torque).
• 6-Speed Automatic Transmission.
• 17-inch Alloy Wheels.
• Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control.
• 7-inch Touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Backup Camera.
• Heated Side Mirrors with LED Turn Signals.
• LED Daytime Running Lights.
• Cloth Seats.
• Manually Adjustable Passenger Seat.
• Standard Key with Remote Start (on some early builds) or just Remote Keyless Entry.

The EX was already a very complete car. The 2017 Optima Premium Package simply removed the remaining “economy car” touchpoints. It removed the cloth. It removed the manual seat cranks. It removed the key fob fumble. It removed the solid roof.

Why Not The LX or SX

The LX lacked the wiring harnesses and structural reinforcements for the panoramic sunroof and the advanced power seats. Adding the package to the LX would have cost more than just buying an EX. The SX and SXL came with the 2.0L Turbo engine (245 hp). They came with 18-inch wheels, sport suspension, LED headlights, and leather standard. The SX was the premium package in a way. But the turbo engine adds complexity. It requires premium fuel for peak output. It has a turbocharger that can fail. The EX with the Premium Package keeps the simple, bulletproof 2.4L engine. That is a huge win for long-term ownership.

Why Choose the Premium Package Over Higher Trims

This is the “Why” section. This is where the money talk happens. The 2017 Optima SX started around $28,000. The SXL topped $33,000. An EX with the 2017 Optima Premium Package stickered around $27,500. That is a $5,000 to $6,000 savings over the top trim. But the equipment overlap is 90%.

The Luxury Per Dollar Ratio

Let’s use an analogy. Imagine two hotel rooms. Room A costs $300 a night. It has a king bed, a jacuzzi tub, a view, and a butler. Room B costs $180 a night. It has the exact same king bed, the exact same view, a great shower (no tub), and a concierge instead of a butler. The 2017 Optima Premium Package is Room B. You get the leather (the bed). You get the sunroof (the view). You get the heated/cooled seats (the shower). You lose the turbo engine (the jacuzzi) and the LED headlights (the butler). For daily commuting, the turbo is fun for 5% of the drive. The leather and sunroof are enjoyed 100% of the drive.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs

The 2.4L engine in the EX runs on regular 87 octane. The 2.0L Turbo in the SX/SXL recommends 91 octane for best performance. Over 100,000 miles, that fuel difference alone saves thousands. The 2.4L uses a timing chain (generally maintenance-free for life). The turbo adds a turbocharger, intercooler, more complex plumbing, and higher heat stress. The 6-speed automatic in the EX is a proven, robust unit. The turbo models got the same transmission but handled more torque. Reliability data from sources like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power consistently rates the non-turbo Optima higher for predicted reliability. The 2017 Optima Premium Package lets you keep that reliability crown while living in luxury.

Insurance and Depreciation

Insurance companies see “Turbo” and “Sport” and raise rates. The EX is rated as a standard family sedan. The SX is often rated as a sport sedan. The difference can be $200-$400 per year. Depreciation is also kinder to the high-volume EX trim. The SXL depreciates fast because it competes with entry-level luxury brands (Acura, Buick) on the used market. The EX with the Premium Package flies under the radar. It holds value well because it is the “smart money” choice. Savvy used buyers hunt specifically for this combo.

How the Premium Package Changes the Daily Drive

Specs on paper are one thing. Living with the car is another. The 2017 Optima Premium Package changes the feeling of ownership. It shifts the car from “appliance” to “sanctuary.” Let’s walk through a typical day.

Morning Commute: The Smart Key and Ventilated Seat

It is July. Your car has been baking in the sun. You walk up. You do not dig for keys. You grab the door handle. The car unlocks. You sit down. The leather is hot. You press the “Vent” button. Fans suck hot air out of the seat foam. Cool air flows through perforations. Your back stops sweating before you leave the driveway. You press the start button. The mirror has already dimmed the reflection of the truck behind you. You pull out. The panoramic sunroof shade is open. You see the sky. You feel open. The base EX driver cranks a manual lever for lumbar. You press a button. The base EX passenger sits low. Your passenger presses a button to rise up. Harmony.

Weekend Road Trip: The Panoramic Sunroof

You are driving through mountains or along a coast. You tilt the sunroof. Fresh air rushes in without the buffeting of open windows. You hit the shade button. The mesh screen slides back. The glass stays. You get the light and the view without the glare. The kids in the back stare up at clouds. The LED map lights let them read at night without blinding you. The smart trunk means you walk up with arms full of groceries. The trunk pops. You load. You walk away. The car locks itself after you leave (if enabled). It feels modern. It feels expensive. It cost you thousands less than the German sedan parked next to you.

The “Invisible” Features

Some features you only notice when they are gone. The auto-dimming mirror. Drive a car without it at night. You get blinded. You flip a manual tab. You lose your rear view. The HomeLink mirror. You pull in the driveway. The gate opens. No remote clipped to the visor. No battery dying in that remote. The LED interior lights. You drop your phone at night. You see it instantly. The base EX had yellowish halogen bulbs. These are white. It makes the cabin feel newer, cleaner, more premium. The 2017 Optima Premium Package is a collection of 50 small wins that add up to a better life.

Buying Used: What to Check on a 2017 Optima Premium Package

The 2017 model year is now solidly in the used market. Most have 60,000 to 100,000 miles. The factory 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty (for the original owner) are expiring or expired. The 10-year powertrain warranty does not transfer to subsequent owners in most states. It reverts to 5-year/60,000-mile. This makes a pre-purchase inspection critical. Here is your specific checklist for a used 2017 Optima Premium Package car.

Sunroof Health Check

The panoramic sunroof is the most complex mechanical item in the package. It has tracks, motors, cables, and a massive glass panel. Open it fully. Close it fully. Tilt it. Listen for grinding, popping, or uneven movement. Check the rubber seals for cracks or tears. Pour a bottle of water over the closed roof. Check the headliner for stains. Sunroof drain tubes can clog. Water then leaks into the cabin, soaking the carpet and the expensive electronics under the seats. This is the number one failure point for this specific package.

Seat Functionality Test

Test every motor. Driver seat: forward, back, up, down, recline, lumbar (in/out, up/down). Passenger seat: all motions. Heated seats: turn to high. Feel the bottom and back. They should get toasty in 2 minutes. Ventilated driver seat: turn on. Put your hand on the seat bottom and back. You should feel distinct airflow sucking in. If the fan is weak or loud, the motor or ducting is failing. Leather condition: look for cracking on the bolsters (side supports). The 2017 leather is decent quality but needs conditioning. Cracking leather is expensive to fix.

Smart Key and Electronics

Bring both key fobs. Test lock/unlock on all four doors and trunk via the handle sensors. Test push-button start. Test the Smart Trunk. Stand behind the car with the key. Wait 3 seconds. Beep-beep-pop. If it fails, the rear bumper sensors or the module might be bad. Test HomeLink. Program a garage door if possible. Check the auto-dimming mirror. Shine a flashlight at the sensor (front facing) at night. The mirror should darken. Check the compass calibration.

The Engine and Transmission (The Non-Package Parts)

Remember, the 2017 Optima Premium Package does not change the engine. You are buying a 2.4L Theta II GDI engine. This engine has a history. Did You Know? Kia (and Hyundai) had a massive recall campaign for connecting rod bearings in Theta II engines (manufactured roughly 2011-2019). The 2017 model falls in this window. Verify the recall was performed. Call a Kia dealer with the VIN. Ask for “Campaign SC147” or similar engine recall codes. If the recall was done, the engine got new rods, bearings, and often a new block. That is a good thing. It means a fresh bottom end. If it was not done, walk away or demand it be done before purchase. Also, listen for a “knock” at idle when hot. Check for oil consumption (pull the dipstick). GDI engines can carbon buildup on intake valves. Ask if the intake valves have been cleaned (walnut blasting) around 60k-80k miles. It restores power and fuel economy.

Brake and Suspension Wear

The Optima is heavy. The Premium Package adds the sunroof motor and glass (weight up high). Check brake rotor thickness and pad life. Check struts/shocks for leaks. The 2017 refresh improved the rear suspension geometry. It rides better than 2011-2015 models. But worn struts ruin that magic carpet ride.

Comparing the 2017 Optima Premium Package to Rivals

Context matters. The 2017 midsize sedan segment was a bloodbath of competition. Honda Accord. Toyota Camry. Mazda6. Ford Fusion. Hyundai Sonata. Nissan Altima. Chevrolet Malibu. How does the 2017 Optima Premium Package stack up?

Vs. Honda Accord EX-L

The Accord EX-L is the direct rival. It has leather, sunroof, heated seats, and LaneWatch camera. It uses a CVT transmission. The Optima uses a traditional 6-speed automatic. Many drivers prefer the shift feel of the Optima. The Accord holds value slightly better. The Optima offers more rear legroom. The Optima’s infotainment (physical knobs for volume/tuning) is easier to use than the 2017 Accord’s dual-screen mess. The 2017 Optima Premium Package usually costs less on the used lot.

Vs. Toyota Camry XLE

The Camry XLE is the comfort king. Soft ride. Quiet cabin. Legendary reliability. But the 2017 Camry (pre-2018 redesign) looks dated inside and out. The infotainment is clunky. The Optima looks modern still today. The Optima drives with more engagement. The Camry is an appliance. The Optima with the Premium Package feels like a car you want to be in.

Vs. Mazda6 Grand Touring

The Mazda6 is the driver’s choice. Beautiful interior. Great handling. But the 2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring with the Tech Package is expensive used. The back seat is tight. The infotainment controller knob is great but the screen is small and not touch-enabled (while driving). The Optima wins on space, feature count per dollar, and ease of use. The 2017 Optima Premium Package beats the Mazda on value.

Vs. Hyundai Sonata Limited

This is the corporate twin. The Sonata Limited 2.4L is virtually the same car. Same engine. Same platform. Similar features. Styling is the difference. The Optima is sportier. The Sonata is more conservative. Check prices on both. Buy whichever is cheaper or better maintained. They are mechanically identical.

The Verdict: Is It The Right Car For You

You have the facts. You have the feature list. You have the buying advice. Now, the decision. The 2017 Optima Premium Package is not for everyone. But it is perfect for a specific person.

You Should Buy This If:

• You want a midsize sedan that feels premium but costs mainstream money.
• You prioritize comfort features (leather, heated/cooled seats, sunroof) over raw speed.
• You want a reliable naturally aspirated engine that runs on regular gas.
• You keep cars for 100k+ miles and want low maintenance complexity.
• You love the 2016-2020 Optima styling (it ages incredibly well).
• You want Apple CarPlay/Android Auto standard (wireless on some late 2017 builds, check).
• You find one with the Advanced Technology Package too (safety nirvana).

You Should Look Elsewhere If:

• You need AWD (Optima never offered it).
• You want a hybrid or plug-in hybrid (different trims, different packages).
• You demand a turbo engine and sport suspension (Buy an SX).
• You are terrified of the Theta II engine recall history (Buy a Camry/Accord).
• You need maximum rear headroom (The panoramic sunroof lowers the rear headliner by ~1 inch).
• You want the latest driver assists (Highway Driving Assist, etc. came later).

Final Thoughts on Value

The used car market is weird. Sometimes the “best” trim is the one nobody ordered. The 2017 Optima Premium Package was ordered a lot. That means supply is decent. But demand is high because people figured out the secret. It is the Goldilocks Optima. Not too hot (turbo complexity). Not too cold (base cloth seats). Just right. If you find a clean one, with records, recall work done, and a working sunroof, buy it with confidence. It will serve you well for years. It is a modern classic in the making. A car that proves you don’t need a luxury badge to get a luxury experience. You just need to check the right option box.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the 2017 Optima EX and the EX Premium Package?

The base EX comes with cloth seats, a manual passenger seat, a standard key fob, and a solid roof. The Premium Package adds leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, power passenger seat, smart key with push-button start, auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink, and a smart trunk opener.

Does the 2017 Optima Premium Package include a turbo engine?

No. The Premium Package is an equipment group for the EX trim, which uses the 2.4-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine. The turbo engine is exclusive to the SX and SXL trims.

Was the Advanced Technology Package included in the Premium Package?

No, they were separate option codes. However, many dealers ordered them together. You must check the specific vehicle’s window sticker or VIN decode to confirm if it has Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, and Smart Cruise Control.

How much did the 2017 Optima Premium Package cost when new?

The Premium Package had an MSRP of approximately $2,900. The Advanced Technology Package added roughly $1,700 more. A fully loaded EX with both packages stickered near $29,000-$30,000.

Is the panoramic sunroof on the 2017 Optima Premium Package reliable?

It is generally reliable but is the most common failure point for this package. Check for smooth operation, intact seals, and clogged drain tubes which can cause water leaks into the cabin electronics.

Does the 10-year/100,000-mile warranty transfer to a second owner on a 2017 Optima?

No. Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty only applies to the original owner. For subsequent owners, it reverts to the standard 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.