The Kia Optima is a five passenger mid-to-large size sedan that competes with cars like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and its sibling the Hyundai Sonata. A long-running nameplate for Kia, the Optima has steadily improved with each design. The latest Optima, introduced as a 2011 model wears such striking styling that buyers are sure to take notice. Like the Sonata, the Optima foregoes V6 power offering only fuel-efficient, four-cylinder engines in its 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 most models. The Optima comes in three trim levels: LX, EX, and SX. Most buyers will probably opt for the well-equipped EX trim level which includes alloy wheels, power equipment, dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery and a power driver's seat. The SX is the sport model and includes the more powerful engine, larger tires and unique upholstery. The Optima range also includes a gasoline/electric hybrid model, but it is not available in all parts of the country.
Model/Trim/Package | Engine | | | Original MSRP
|
Optima LX | 2.4l I4 (192-bhp) | A6 | FWD | $21,650 |
Optima LX Convenience Plus | 2.4l I4 (192-bhp) | A6 | FWD | $23,250 |
Optima EX | 2.4l I4 (192-bhp) | A6 | FWD | $24,100 |
Optima EX Premium | 2.4l I4 (192-bhp) | A6 | FWD | $27,400 |
Optima EX Tech, Premium | 2.4l I4 (192-bhp) | A6 | FWD | $31,800 |
Optima SX | 2.4l I4 (192-bhp) | A6 | FWD | $25,700 |
Optima SX Premium Tech | 2.4l I4 (192-bhp) | A6 | FWD | $30,300 |
Optima SX Turbo | 2.0l I4 T (274-bhp) | A6 | FWD | $27,700 |
Optima SX Turbo Premium Tech | 2.0l I4 T (274-bhp) | A6 | FWD | $33,400 |
Optima SXL Turbo | 2.0l I4 T (274-bhp) | A6 | FWD | $35,500 |
Optima Hybrid | 2.4l I4 HEV (199-bhp) | A6 | FWD | TBD |
Optima Hybrid EX | 2.4l I4 HEV (199-bhp) | A6 | FWD | TBD |