Four-cylinder acceleration matches the feel of the V6 in around-town driving, but strains to provide highway-passing power. A test four-cylinder with automatic transmission accelerated to 60 mph in a rather leisurely 8.6 seconds. Kia's V6 offers stronger passing power. With either engine, the automatic transmission's upshifts are occasionally lazy, and downshifts tardy. Fuel economy is adequate but less than frugal. Test four-cylinder LXs averaged 19.5 mpg with either transmission. A test EX V6 averaged 19.7 mpg overall, or 24.8 mpg in mostly highway driving. Optimas capably absorb most road imperfections, though sharp bumps may trigger some float and wallow. Expect a slight ride penalty with 17-inch tires in the optional Appearance Package. No sport sedan, the Optima is a bit more athletic than Hyundai Sonata. Mostly composed in quick directional changes, but Optima suffers some body roll. Steering is responsive, but feels numb on-center. Some testers have called it overboosted. Available 17-inch tires provide slightly sharper moves than the standard 16s. A tight turning circle enhances parking-lot maneuverability. Wind rush is well muffled, but intrusive rough-surface tire roar occurs at highway speeds. Four-cylinder engines emit a thrashy groan at full throttle. The V6 is noticeably quieter, but less refined than the Toyota Camry's V6. Both engines are subdued while cruising. Gauges are legible and unobstructed, and the large, well-marked controls fall readily to hand. Optional leather upholstery lacks richness, but looks nicer than standard cloth. Other interior materials are serviceable and attractive, but otherwise nothing special. Expect sufficient legroom up front, with adequate headspace for tall drivers. Seats are comfortable, but offer little lateral support in turns. The driving position is pleasant and upright, though telescopic steering-wheel adjustments would be a welcome addition. Visibility is fine in all directions. Backseat room and comfort are adequate for two adults, but knee space grows tight if front seats are more than halfway back. Mediocre headroom is diminished further by the optional sunroof's housing. Trunk space is decent, and lid hinges don't intrude. Split folding rear seats release via trunk-mounted handles. Sufficient cabin storage includes an ample glovebox, door map pockets, and an armrest console.

Value for the Money
Like the related Hyundai Sonata, Kia's Optima delivers a high level of features per dollar. On the whole, though, it falls short in overall refinement and materials quality, versus such class benchmarks as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Promising a more sporting character than Hyundai's Sonata, the Optima had lower starting prices when new. But ABS cost extra, as did traction/antiskid control--important safety features that we strongly recommend. Kias tend to depreciate considerably faster than their major competitors, so used-car prices can be appealing.