Roomy New Interior

However, the Optima's quiet new interior is more upscale and will accommodate four tall adults, or five in a pinch.

Front seats are supportive, and the rear-seat area is impressively roomy—although the back seat has a stiff center area. Oversized door handles help allow easy entry.

The instrument panel has a design that curves at the corners and flows on to the door panels. Gauges can be easily read, climate controls are large and radio controls are simple to use. There are a decent number of storage areas for smaller items, and front cupholders are conveniently located on the console. Sun visor vanity mirrors have ceiling lights—an upscale touch. However, some interior surfaces feel rough.

    See also:

    Additional Horsepower
    The 2.4-liter 161-horsepower 4-cylinder engine has gained 23 horsepower from the early-2006 model and provides good acceleration below 60 mph—but average performance above that speed. The 2.7-li ...

    Gauges
    Speedometer The speedometer indicates the forward speed of the vehicle. Tachometer The tachometer indicates the approximate number of engine revolutions per minute (rpm). Use the tachometer to ...

    Towing
    Towing service If emergency towing is necessary, we recommend having it done by an authorized KIA dealer or a commercial towtruck service. Proper lifting and towing procedures are necessary to ...