2006 Kia Optima Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2006 Kia Optima includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Kia Optima from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Kia Optima, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Kia Optima help you decide if a 2006 Kia Optima is right for you.

2006 Kia Optima Road Test

Pros	Cons

Instruments/controls	Automatic-transmission performance

Ride	Rear-seat room/comfort

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

EX V6	Class Average
5	5.6

Four-cylinder model not made available for test. Test V6 automatic '05 Hyundai Sonata clocked 8.7 sec 0-60 mph. Optima should be the same. Manual-shift feature helps make up for automatic transmission's tardy downshift action that lengthens midrange passing response.

Fuel Economy

EX V6	Class Average
6	5.2

Test automatic-transmission V6 averaged 22.4 mpg. Expect slightly higher with 4-cyl. Kia recommends regular gas for both engines.

Ride Quality

EX V6	Class Average
7	6.1

Compliant suspension soaks up most bumps with ease, though Optima floats a bit over large dips and bumps.

Steering/Handling/Braking

EX V6	Class Average
6	6.1

Modest, but predictable, despite noticeable body lean in fast corners. Simulated panic stops only class-average short even with ABS. Brake-pedal feel a bit numb.

Quietness

EX V6	Class Average
6	6.2

Tire noise noticeable, and bumps come through with a loud thump. V6 is quiet at idle, and produces only a muted whine under full throttle.

Controls

EX V6	Class Average
7	6.8

Dashboard design places everything within easy reach, and most buttons and dials are large and easy to use. Materials hard to fault for the price.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

EX V6	Class Average
7	6.6

Spacious in feel and fact, aided by low-rise dashboard and large windows that enhance visibility. Seats don't look special, but seem long-haul comfortable. Decent head room, even with test car's power sunroof.

Room/Comfort (rear)

EX V6	Class Average
4	5

Comfortably wide enough only for two adults, who have marginal foot room, OK head room; must sit knees-up behind tall occupants. Entry/exit no problem, despite narrowish door thresholds.

Cargo Room

EX V6	Class Average
3	4.5

Flat-floor trunk has shallow opening that prevents stuffing in big boxes, but volume is good and hinges don't dip into load area. Interior storage consists of two covered cupholders, two-tier console box, dash bin, large glovebox, and map pockets.

Value within Class

EX V6	Class Average
7	6.1

In terms of equipment and comfort, Optima offers good value for the money. But it lacks some modern safety features, and Kia's impressive warranty is partially offset by traditionally low resale values.

Total Score