Large Trunk
The large trunk has a low, wide opening and a lid that raises easily on gas struts. Rear seatbacks can be flipped forward for more cargo space, but they don't sit entirely flat. The pass-through area between the trunk and rear-seat area is only moderately large.
The seatbacks have trunk releases that were hard to use on my test car, but prevent thieves from gaining entry to the trunk from the back seat.
Kia hopes the redesigned Optima will help it reach its goal of 500,000 annual U.S. sales by 2010. It's looking for at least 50,000 annual sales here of the Optima, or about 10,000 more than it annually has been selling in recent years.
Optima buyers shouldn't expect Toyota or Honda resale values, but neither can owners of most family sedans.
See also:
Vehicle break-in process
No special break-in period is needed. By
following a few simple precautions for the
first 1,000 km (600 miles) you may add to
the performance, economy and life of
your vehicle.
• Do not race th ...
A Little More Space, a Lot Better Access
Although more than a few C/D staffers would choose the Forte hatch over the
sedan based on looks alone, increased cargo capacity and easier access to your
stuff are in the pros column, too. The Fo ...
Steering wheel
Power steering
Power steering uses energy from the
engine to assist you in steering the vehicle.
If the engine is off or if the power
steering system becomes inoperative,
the vehicle may still be ...