Kia Optima 2.4 EX AT (2015) vs Geely EX5 EM-i Max (2026)

Kia Optima 2.4 EX AT (2015) vs Geely EX5 EM-i Max (2026): which should you buy?

For a Filipino buyer weighing a used 2015 Kia Optima 2.4 EX AT against a brand‑new 2026 Geely EX5 EM‑i Max, the decision hinges on power, price and intended use. The Optima costs ₱1,490,000, slightly more than the Geely’s ₱1,468,000, but it offers a substantially larger 2.4‑litre engine delivering 180 PS and 231 Nm, versus the Geely’s 99 PS and 125 Nm PHEV unit. If outright performance, a sportier driving feel and a traditional sedan silhouette are priorities, the Optima is the clear choice, especially for drivers who value higher torque for highway overtaking and a 6‑speed automatic. However, the Geely brings modern benefits: it is brand‑new, qualifies for current warranty, and runs on a plug‑in hybrid system that can reduce fuel costs and emissions in city traffic. Its five‑door crossover body adds a higher seating position, more cargo flexibility and a suite of exterior colour options, appealing to families or those needing extra practicality. The Optima’s 4‑door sedan layout and 2+3 seating is less versatile for cargo. Considering the modest price gap, buyers who need daily fuel efficiency, newer technology and a taller ride‑height should pick the Geely EX5 EM‑i Max, while enthusiasts or those who prefer a more powerful, rear‑biased sedan experience may still favour the Kia Optima, accepting its discontinued status and older warranty terms.