Moving to turbo power or adding cylinders under the hood often sends fuel economy into a tailspin.
Not so with the Kia Optima, which was redesigned last year, giving buyers a snazzy-looking ride with a nice interior and a long list of features. 2012 models add a couple more standards.
This week’s tester is the Optima turbo, a 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder that delivers 274 horsepower, yet is still rated at 22 miles per gallon in the city, 34 on the highway.
The turbo is matched to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode and compares with the EPA’s estimate of 24/35 for the 2.4-liter 200-horse engine. A hybrid version goes greener at 35/40.
The turbo starts at $25,850 and isn’t available on the base LX model, which stickers from $20,250 and comes with a manual tranny.
The turbo provides a bit of a punch with 269 pound-feet of torque, but I wouldn’t describe the overall driving experience as sporty. Like most Asian cars, Optima makes a smooth transition through the gears and into turns. Still, it can be fun to drive. Engine noise is a bit louder than some competitors, and the suspension is a little stiffer.
It’s not as big as some midsize cars, such as the Honda Accord, but there is plenty of room, with front seats that push way back and still leave lots of rear legroom and a good chunk of trunk space.
The turbo comes in EX and LX trims. Standards include 17-inch alloy wheels; power-folding outside mirrors; steering wheel-mounted controls for audio, Bluetooth and cruise control; audio system with CD player, MP3 and USB links; push-button starter; dual-zone air conditioning; cooled glove box; leather; LED taillights; and eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment.
Courtesy of Cathy Luebke; Phoenix Business Journal
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