With the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Altima, Hyundai Sonata and others, competition among midsize sedans has always been fierce. But that wasn't a deterrent when Kia launched the all-new Optima in 2010. Since it underwent a major redesign last year, the sleek and attractive ride has stood apart from the crowd.
The base LX and volume EX are equipped with a 2.4-liter gasoline-direct injection inline-4 cylinder engine, which generates 200 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 186 pounds-feet of torque at 4250. But lead-foot drivers can opt for the sporty SX and EX turbo trims, which get a 2.0-liter inline-4 cylinder engine cranking out 274 hp at 6000 rpm and 269 pounds-feet of torque at 4500 rpm. Except for the LX, which is offered as a 6-speed manual, the rest come standard with a 6-speed auto, which shifts effortlessly.
Arguably, the steel-unibody based Optima is the boldest-appearing sedans in the market, thanks to a sweeping chrome arc from front to rear, projector headlights flanked by Kia's traditional tabbed grille, chrome/body color door handles and body-color side molding. The cabin touts notable standard amenities such as a cooled glove box, tilt/telescopic steering column, power door locks and windows, 60/40 split fold rear seat and remote keyless entry.
Base-priced at $19,500, with a mid-range at $23,200 and the high-end SX trim at $26,500. On the LX manual, EPA estimates are 24 city/35 highway. However, the SX is expected to get 22 city/34 highway. Our test-drive model managed 24 mpg in city/highway driving, which translates into about 440 miles driving before having to stop at the pump.
With striking looks, solid and stable ride, decent fuel economy and priced just right, the Optima competently meets the needs of most buyers in the midsize-sedan segment. And that means more sleepless nights for its rivals.
OPTIMA SX
Tires: P215/55R17 front; 255/45R18 rear
Suspension: independent MacPherson front; multilink rear
Steering: hydraulic power assist
Wheelbase: 110 inches
Length: 190.7 inches
Weight: 3,385 pounds
Fuel capacity: 18.5 gallons
Courtesy of NITISH S. RELE | Tbo.com
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