Impressive Warranty

Hyundai is Kia's corporate parent, so the Optima gets Hyundai's impressive warranty; it includes 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain protection and 5-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance.

Kia is putting more marketing muscle behind the new Optima. Its predecessor received little marketing support, and most folks wanting a Kia sedan brushed past it in showrooms and headed for the automaker's Spectra model.

The front-wheel-drive Optima has quick steering and a decent ride, but the softness of an older Buick and thus just average handling. The brake pedal has a linear action to help provide smooth stops.

    See also:

    Knowing your vehicle
    Keys Remote keyless entry Theft-alarm system Immobilizer system Door locks Windows Seat Safety belts Air bags-supplemental restraint system Trunk Hood Fuel filler lid Mirrors Interior lig ...

    Road warning
    Hazard warning flasher The hazard warning flasher serves as a warning to other drivers to exercise extreme caution when approaching, overtaking, or passing your vehicle. It should be used whene ...

    Instrument cluster
    Type A Type B 1. Tachometer 2. Engine temperature gauge 3. Fuel gauge 4. Speedometer 5. Turn signal indicators 6.Warning and indicator lights (if equipped) 7. Odometer/Trip computer (if eq ...