2008 Kia Optima: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Kia Optima is largely unchanged pending a freshening for model-year 2009. 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.