2011 Kia Optima: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2011 Kia Optima is redesigned with freshened styling and a new gas/electric hybrid model. This midsize car shares elements of its basic design and powertrains with the 2011 Hyundai Sonata produced by Kia's corporate parent. Optima reprises its LX, EX, and SX trim levels, and adds a Hybrid model for 2011. LX and EX have a 200-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. That engine replaces a 175-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and a 194-horsepower 2.7-liter V6. Standard on SX and available on EX is a 274-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. A 6-speed manual transmission is available only on LX. A 6-speed automatic is optional for that model, and is standard otherwise. The Hybrid uses a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and a battery-powered electric motor for 206 horsepower total. It's connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Hybrid can run on one or both its sources to balance acceleration and fuel economy. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. Available features include heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, a wireless cell-phone link, air-conditioned glovebox, panoramic sunroof, and a navigation system.

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 the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, and Toyota Prius. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord Sedan, Honda Accord Coupe, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, Suzuki Kizashi, and Toyota Camry. New or significantly redesigned models include the Buick Regal, Chrysler 200, Hyundai Sonata, and Kia Optima.