IS BIGGER BETTER?

While we’d certainly argue that when it comes to cars bigger isn’t always better, the wider and longer Optima is now in line with its main competitors delivering added interior space. Rear seat legroom and headroom is plentiful for the second row passengers, although a lower roof section for the middle seat makes it all but useless for anyone but a child. Front seat space isn’t as generous. Even with the seat in its lowest position, taller drivers (those 6-feet and above) who don’t feel the need to drive with the seat half reclined will find it cramped with very little in the way of headroom.

The Optima’s increased dimensions have also benefited trunk space, showing that Kia’s dramatic new design language isn’t at the expense of functionality. The trunk holds a cavernous 15.4 cubic feet, although the pass-through space is quite narrow.

    See also:

    Powertrains and Performance
    The 2010 Kia Sportage can be had with one of two engines and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. LX base models get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that puts out 140 hp and 136 pound-feet of torque. ...

    Automatic transaxle
    Automatic transaxle operation The highly efficient automatic transaxle has 5 forward speeds and one reverse speed. The individual speeds are selected automatically, depending on the position of ...

    Before driving
    WARNING - ENGINE EXHAUST CAN BE DANGEROUS! Engine exhaust fumes can be extremely dangerous. If, at any time, you smell exhaust fumes inside the vehicle, open the windows immediately. • Do not i ...