2001-2006 Kia Optima: Road Test

In performance and accommodations, Optimas mirror comparably equipped Hyundai Sonatas. Optimas and Sonatas with the four-cylinder engine have modest acceleration: about 10 seconds to reach 60 mph. Acceleration with a V6 is noticeably quicker. A 2001 model with the 2.5-liter V6 did 0-60 mph in a reasonably brisk 8.5 seconds with the automatic transmission. The 2.7-liter models feel slightly stronger. Automatic transmissions are fairly smooth, and the manual-shift feature helps make up for its tardy kick-down action that lengthens midrange passing response. The automatic is also too eager to upshift, which makes use of the manual shift gate more appealing. As for economy, 2001 sedans with V6/automatic averaged 18.7 to 20.2 mpg. A four cylinder will be slightly thriftier. Both engines use regular fuel. Compliant suspensions soak up most bumps with ease, though these sedans float a bit over large dip and humps. Comfort-biased tires keep impact harshness pleasantly low. Steering/handling is modest but predictable, despite noticeable body lean in fast corners. Later Optimas have 15-inch wheels. Simulated panic stops were only class-average short, even with ABS. Brake-pedal feel is a bit numb, and brakes are a bit touchy in routine use. Non-ABS systems resist lockup, however, and nosedive is well-checked. Road noise is louder than wind noise at highway speeds, but not objectionable. Bumps come through with a loud thump. The V6 is quiet at idle, and produces a muted whine under full throttle. Still, both engines are on the coarse side, compared to Japanese rivals. Dashboard design places everything within easy reach. Most buttons and dials are large and easy to use. All power-window switches are lit at night. Materials are hard to fault for the price. Higher-line models feature glossy woodgrain plastic trim. Front head and leg room are ample. Seats are comfortable and offer either manual or power height adjustment, for a commanding view. Top-line models were available with leather upholstery that lacks richness. Back seats are wide enough for only two adults, who have marginal foot room and just-acceptable head room, and must sit knees-up if the front seats are pushed far back. Seat cushions are somewhat low and a bit too soft for best support, but the rear has a fold-down center armrest. The flat-floor trunk has a smallish opening but good volume, and hinges don't dip into the load area. The seatback folds easily but not quite flat, and the pass-through is not full-width. Interior storage is generous, with a two-tier console box, two covered cupholders, console and dash bins, map pockets, and a decent-size glovebox.

Value for the Money
In terms of equipment and comfort, Optima and Sonata offer impressive value for the money. Though they serve as bargain-priced Camry alternatives that have little need for apologies. Both have suffered from low resale values associated with South Korean cars, this can be good news for used-car shoppers. Generous warranties, however, do not offset the quality concerns.