What Changed

Kia's mid-sized sedan is all-new for 2011. The most obvious difference is the aggressive new styling. The exterior features a lower roofline with distinctively shaped windows. A strong line runs along the side from the headlamps to the tail lamps. The Optima has grown considerably in wheelbase (2.9 in) and track (1.5 in). The new styling has reduced the height of the car by 1.0 in. Like its corporate relative the Sonata, the Optima features an all four cylinder lineup. A 200-bhp 2.4l four powers most models, but a 274-bhp 2.0l turbo is available in upper trim levels. A six-speed automatic is standard on all models except the base model.

Comparison to Prior Model

2011 Kia Optima 2010 Kia Optima
2011 Kia Optima 2010 Kia Optima
Price Range ($) $18,995 - $31,500 $17,995 - $24,795
Length (in) 190.7 189.0
Wheelbase (in) 110.0 107.1
Width (in) 72.1 71.1
Height (in) 57.3 58.3
Track (in) 63.0 61.5
Exterior Volume (cu. ft.) 398.4 392.2
Curb Weight (lbs.) 3206-3490 3157-3294
Legroom Total (in.) 80.2 81.5
Passenger Volume (cu. ft.) 102.3 104.3
Cargo Volume (cu. ft.) 15.4 15.0
Driven Wheels
  • FWD
  • FWD
Engines
  • 2.0l I4 T (274-bhp)
  • 2.4l I4 (200-bhp)
  • 2.4l I4 HEV (166-bhp)
  • 2.4l I4 (175-bhp)
  • 2.7l V6 (194-bhp)
Transmissions A6, M6 A5, M5
City MPG 22-34 20-22
Highway MPG 34-39 28-32
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