THE VERDICT
Just a few years ago, the Kia Optima would have been a genuine competitor to the American sedans in the family car category. Unfortunately for Kia, companies like Ford and General Motors have made tremendous strides in recent years with cars like the Fusion and Malibu. As a result, the Optima suffers from being too little, too late.
POSITVE
Solid new design
Quiet and comfy ride
Fully-loaded for the price of a base-model competitor
NEGATIVE
Sloppy ride quality
Poor interior design and materials
Less than the sum of its parts
We would, however still consider it an option if your list of potential cars includes the Mitsubishi Gallant, Chrysler Sebring or Pontiac G6. After all, it’s not all bad, remember, power and fuel economy (with the four-cylinder) are on par with the competition.
What may make the Optima attractive to certain buyers is that you can purchase the well-equipped automatic four-cylinder LX model for $18,950 – thousands less than an Accord, Camry or Malibu that has fewer options. In short, it’s a car for someone who wants all the bells and whistles but can’t (or doesn’t want to) afford the same package on another vehicle.
See also:
Ultra-compact six-speed automatic transmission
Developed by the Hyundai-Kia Group for fitment in a wide range of future
vehicles, the all-new six-speed automatic transmission now available for the new
Kia Sportage is ultra-compact - and can fe ...
Knowing your vehicle
Keys
Remote keyless entry
Theft-alarm system
Immobilizer system
Door locks
Window
Seat
Safety belts
Airbags - advanced supplemental restraint system
Hood
Fuel filler lid
Mirrors
Interior l ...
Interior Design and Special Features
Kia designed a functional, roomy and attractive interior for the Sportage.
Most of the materials are of good quality and the build quality is solid. The
rear-seat design allows for a flat load flo ...