The third-generation Kia Optima (TF) debuted in April 2010 at the New York International Auto Show, marking a stylistic design revolution for Kia. Designed under Peter Schreyer at Kia's Frankfurt studio, it featured a sleek coupe-like 4-door silhouette spanning 4,845 mm in length with a 2,795 mm wheelbase. A distinctive chrome accent strip ran seamlessly along the roofline down to the C-pillar. This generation of the Optima (TF) was produced from 2010 to 2015 and offered in седан body styles. Built on an engineered platform, it features strong structural rigidity, refined aerodynamics, and advanced occupant safety engineering.

Engine options featured 2.0-liter MPI (150 hp), 2.4-liter GDI (200 hp), and a high-performance 2.0-liter T-GDI turbo petrol unit producing 274 hp. An Optima Hybrid model combining an electric motor with a petrol engine arrived for eco-conscious buyers. A 2013 update refreshed the LED illumination, introduced quad LED fog lamps, and added an 8-inch infotainment screen with ventilated front seating. The powertrain lineup features modern engines optimized for thermal efficiency, balancing responsive acceleration with economical fuel consumption. Power is delivered through reliable manual or automatic transmissions.