Decently Equipped

Even the LX trim level is decently equipped, with such items as air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD sound system, a tilt-telescopic steering wheel, a manually adjustable driver's seat, cruise control and power windows, locks and heated mirrors.

Added to the EX are automatic climate control, an upgraded sound system and a power driver's seat.

Options for all Optima trim levels include $300 anti-lock brakes and a $300 package that has stability control and traction control.

Exclusive EX extras are an $800 sunroof and a $1,300 leather upholstery package with a power front passenger seat and power-adjustable pedals.

While sleeker than its predecessor, the new Optima won't turn heads, but that's no drawback because most midsize Japanese sedan buyers haven't wanted flashy styling.

    See also:

    Choice of engines with enhanced economy and lowered emissions
    When the full range of new Kia Sportage models is on sale later this year, it will be available with four engines - two petrol and two diesel, ranging between 115 ps to 163 ps - manual and automat ...

    Acceleration and Power
    All Rio and Rio5 models have a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 110 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the Rio sedan, and a four-speed automatic is available for ...

    Wiper blades
    Wiper blade maintenance Commercial hot waxes applied by automatic car washes have been known to make the windshield difficult to clean. Contamination of either the windshield or the wiper blades ...