Powertrains and Performance

The standard engine on the LX is a 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder engine. It generates 140 horsepower and 136 pound-feet of torque and is mated to either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic with automanual-shift capability (2WD only). Optional on the LX and standard on the EX is a 2.7-liter V6 that produces 173 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. The V6 is available with the four-speed automatic only. Buyers can get front-wheel drive (2WD) or all-wheel drive (4WD) with either engine.

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    Dimensions
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    THE VERDICT
    Kia won’t release pricing for the Optima for another few weeks, but we’re assured it will come in at under $20,000 to start and we expect it to undercut (slightly) the Sonata, which starts at ...

    Theft-alarm system
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