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2008 Kia Optima Full Review
Date Published: 4/30/08
Also in the 2008 Kia Optima Review:
5.
6.
Kia Optima Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2008 Kia Optima Review
The 2008 Kia Optima is largely unchanged. Optima shares its basic design with the Sonata produced by Kia's corporate parent, Hyundai. Optima comes in LX and uplevel EX models with a choice of a 162-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine or a 185-horsepower 2.7-liter V6. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on the 4-cylinder LX. A 5-speed automatic is optional for that model and is standard otherwise. Available safety equipment includes ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Leather upholstery is standard on EXs. Options include heated seats, sunroof, and power-adjustable pedals.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family oriented sedans and wagons.
Our Best Buys include Honda Accord and Kia Rondo. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 5, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Saturn Aura, and Toyota Camry.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Honda Accord, and Mazda 5.
Our Best Buys include Honda Accord and Kia Rondo. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 5, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Saturn Aura, and Toyota Camry.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Honda Accord, and Mazda 5.
News
This just-redesigned Kia should see few near-term changes of note. A possible exception: adding sister Sonata's 3.3-liter V6 to the options list.
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2008 Kia Optima Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Ride | Automatic-transmission performance |
| Instruments/controls | Small trunk opening |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
The 4-cylinder matches the feel of the V6 in around-town driving, but it strains to provide highway passing power. In Consumer Guide testing, a 4-cylinder with automatic transmission did 8.6 seconds 0-60 mph. No opportunity to time the V6 version, which has stronger passing power. With either engine, the automatic transmission's upshifts are occasionally lazy and downshifts can be tardy.
| LX 4-cylinder, manual | LX 4-cylinder, automatic | EX V6 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 6 | 5.6 |
The 4-cylinder matches the feel of the V6 in around-town driving, but it strains to provide highway passing power. In Consumer Guide testing, a 4-cylinder with automatic transmission did 8.6 seconds 0-60 mph. No opportunity to time the V6 version, which has stronger passing power. With either engine, the automatic transmission's upshifts are occasionally lazy and downshifts can be tardy.
Fuel Economy
In Consumer Guide testing, 4-cylinder LXs averaged 19.5 mpg with either transmission, and an EX V6 averaged 19.7 mpg overall, 24.8 mpg in mostly highway driving. Optima uses regular-grade gas.
| LX 4-cylinder, manual | LX 4-cylinder, automatic | EX V6 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, 4-cylinder LXs averaged 19.5 mpg with either transmission, and an EX V6 averaged 19.7 mpg overall, 24.8 mpg in mostly highway driving. Optima uses regular-grade gas.
Ride Quality
Optima's suspension ably absorbs most road imperfections, though sharp bumps trigger some float and wallow. There is a very slight ride penalty with the 17-inch wheels in the optional Appearance Package.
| LX 4-cylinder, manual | LX 4-cylinder, automatic | EX V6 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
Optima's suspension ably absorbs most road imperfections, though sharp bumps trigger some float and wallow. There is a very slight ride penalty with the 17-inch wheels in the optional Appearance Package.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Optima is no sports sedan, but it is a bit more athletic than the similar Hyundai Sonata. It is mostly composed in quick direction changes, though there is some body roll. Steering is responsive, but it feels numb on-center and, to some testers, overboosted. The available 17-inch tires give slightly sharper moves than the standard 16s. The tight turning circle enhances parking-lot maneuverability.
| LX 4-cylinder, manual | LX 4-cylinder, automatic | EX V6 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 6 |
Optima is no sports sedan, but it is a bit more athletic than the similar Hyundai Sonata. It is mostly composed in quick direction changes, though there is some body roll. Steering is responsive, but it feels numb on-center and, to some testers, overboosted. The available 17-inch tires give slightly sharper moves than the standard 16s. The tight turning circle enhances parking-lot maneuverability.
Quietness
Wind rush is well-muffled, but there is intrusive rough-surface tire roar at highway speeds. The 4-cylinder emits a thrashy groan at full throttle. The V6 is noticeably quieter but is less refined than most rivals V6s. Both engines are subdued at cruise.
| LX 4-cylinder, manual | LX 4-cylinder, automatic | EX V6 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 6 |
Wind rush is well-muffled, but there is intrusive rough-surface tire roar at highway speeds. The 4-cylinder emits a thrashy groan at full throttle. The V6 is noticeably quieter but is less refined than most rivals V6s. Both engines are subdued at cruise.
Controls
Gauges are legible and unobstructed. The large, well-marked controls fall readily to hand.
| LX 4-cylinder, manual | LX 4-cylinder, automatic | EX V6 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.3 |
Gauges are legible and unobstructed. The large, well-marked controls fall readily to hand.
Details
The leather upholstery lacks richness, but it looks nicer than the standard cloth. Other interior materials are serviceable and attractive, but no more than that.
| LX 4-cylinder, manual | LX 4-cylinder, automatic | EX V6 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
The leather upholstery lacks richness, but it looks nicer than the standard cloth. Other interior materials are serviceable and attractive, but no more than that.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
There is sufficient legroom and adequate headroom for tall drivers. The seats are comfortable, but they offer little lateral support in turns. Optima has a pleasant and upright driving position. The available tilt and telescopic steering wheel is a comfort plus. Visibility is fine in all directions.
| LX 4-cylinder, manual | LX 4-cylinder, automatic | EX V6 | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
There is sufficient legroom and adequate headroom for tall drivers. The seats are comfortable, but they offer little lateral support in turns. Optima has a pleasant and upright driving position. The available tilt and telescopic steering wheel is a comfort plus. Visibility is fine in all directions.
Room/Comfort (rear)
There is adequate room and comfort for two adults in the back seat. Knee space grows tight if the front seats are far back. Mediocre headroom is diminished further by the sunroof housing.
| LX 4-cylinder, manual | LX 4-cylinder, automatic | EX V6 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.2 |
There is adequate room and comfort for two adults in the back seat. Knee space grows tight if the front seats are far back. Mediocre headroom is diminished further by the sunroof housing.
Cargo Room
Optima's decent-size trunk has hinges that don't intrude into cargo space. The split folding rear seats release via trunk-mounted handles. There is sufficient cabin storage with an ample glovebox, door map pockets, and an armrest console.
| LX 4-cylinder, manual | LX 4-cylinder, automatic | EX V6 | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.1 |
Optima's decent-size trunk has hinges that don't intrude into cargo space. The split folding rear seats release via trunk-mounted handles. There is sufficient cabin storage with an ample glovebox, door map pockets, and an armrest console.
Value within Class
Like the related Hyundai Sonata, Optima delivers a high level of features per dollar, earning it our Recommended nod. Optima has a more sporting character and lower starting prices than Sonata, but ABS, traction control, and an antiskid system--important safety features we strongly recommend--cost extra.
| LX 4-cylinder, manual | LX 4-cylinder, automatic | EX V6 | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 8 | 6.2 |
Like the related Hyundai Sonata, Optima delivers a high level of features per dollar, earning it our Recommended nod. Optima has a more sporting character and lower starting prices than Sonata, but ABS, traction control, and an antiskid system--important safety features we strongly recommend--cost extra.
Total Score
| LX 4-cylinder, manual | LX 4-cylinder, automatic | EX V6 | Class Average |
| 63 | 64 | 66 | 63.2 |
Scores for all Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 48 | |
| Average Score | 63 | |
| High Score | 74 |
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2008 Kia Optima Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/29/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
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| LX 4-cylinder 4-door sedan, manual | $16,355 | $15,435 | $640 |
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| LX 4-cylinder 4-door sedan, automatic | $17,750 | $16,595 | $640 |
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| LX V6 4-door sedan, automatic | $19,445 | $18,090 | $640 |
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| EX 4-cylinder 4-door sedan, automatic | $19,495 | $18,140 | $640 |
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| EX V6 4-door sedan, automatic | $20,500 | $18,985 | $640 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
LX 4-cylinder manual
Powertrain
2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes, front-seat active head restraints, tire-pressure monitor, emergency inside trunklid release.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, split folding rear seat, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, AM/FM/CD player, digital-media player connection, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
205/60R16 tires, wheel covers.
LX 4-cylinder automatic adds to LX 4-cylinder manual:
Powertrain
5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Tilt/telescopic steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, remote keyless entry.
LX V6 adds to LX 4-cylinder automatic:
Powertrain
2.7-liter V6 engine.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Alloy wheels.
EX 4-cylinder adds to LX 4-cylinder automatic:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery, 8-way power driver seat, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage door opener, trip computer, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights, alloy wheels.
EX V6 adds to EX 4-cylinder:
Powertrain
2.7-liter V6 engine.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Appearance Pkg.
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||
|
EX
|
$700
|
$625
|
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Aluminum interior trim, luminescent instrument cluster, unique interior and exterior trim, 215/50VR17 tires.
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Premium Pkg.
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EX
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$1,300
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$1,160
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Power sunroof, Infinity AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer. Requires Convenience Pkg.
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Convenience Pkg.
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EX
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$700
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$625
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Heated front seats, power passenger seat, power-adjustable pedals, manual rear sunshade.
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Electronic Stability Pkg.
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EX 4-cylinder, EX V6, LX 4-cylinder automatic, LX V6
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$600
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$530
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Traction control, antilock brakes, antiskid system, brake assist. NA w/manual transmission.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Floormats
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LX
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$85
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$65
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Rear spoiler
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EX 4-cylinder, EX V6, LX 4-cylinder automatic, LX 4-cylinder manual, LX V6
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$200
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$160
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Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Kia Optima Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Kia Optima 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 107.1 |
| Overall Length, in. | 186.4 |
| Overall Width, in. | 71.1 |
| Overall Height, in. | 58.3 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3142 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 14.8 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.4 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.8 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.7 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.0 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.8 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I4 | dohc V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.4 /144 | 2.7 /163 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 162 @ 5800 | 185 @ 6000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 164 @ 4250 | 182 @ 4000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
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| 5-speed manual | 21/31 | --/-- |
| 5-speed automatic | 21/31 | 20/28 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Kia Optima 4-door sedan |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 10/100,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 5/60,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/100,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 5/60,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
South Korea
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2008 Kia Optima Review:
5.
6.
Kia Optima Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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