Price Ranges

The base Optima LX is priced at $16,355 with a 4-cylinder engine and 5-speed manual transmission and an extra $1,295 with a 5-speed automatic. An LX V6 costs $19,345 and comes only with the automatic.

The more upscale EX trim level is available only with the automatic transmission. It costs $19,395 with the 4-cylinder and $20,400 with the V6.

Most Optima customers are expected to get the 4-cylinder with an automatic transmission. It's anticipated that the majority of buyers will be in their 30s to mid-40s.

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    INSIDE
    Inside, a good mix of materials with a protruding center stack (reminiscent of the Volkswagen New Beetle) offer a good use of space. The glove box is huge, but the flat-folding rear seats and unde ...

    Drive belts
    Drive belts should be checked periodically for proper tension and adjusted if necessary. At the same time, belts should be examined for cracks, wear, fraying or other evidence of deterioration and ...

    Interior overview
    1. Door Lock/Unlock Button ....................4-8 2. Outside Rearview Mirror Control Switch* ....4-30 3. Central Door Lock Switch*................4-10 4. Power Window Lock Button*.............4- ...