Teresa’s View
The newly redesigned Kia Optima continues to improve on its promise of an affordable, feature-laden family sedan. When it was first introduced in 2001, the midsize Optima complemented Kia’s lineup of compact cars and SUVs. That was also the last time it was updated. The second-generation version is more powerful, luxurious and slightly larger than the 2006 unit it replaces.
Just one word of warning, the redesigned Optima is a 2006.5 version, so pay attention when shopping.
The new Optima’s sleek styling takes a pleasant, middle-of-the-road approach that should appeal to most. Deep creases in the hood and side panels give the sedan a slightly aggressive look, but truth be known, most people would be hard pressed to distinguish it from a Honda or Toyota. Don’t tell anyone I said that.
Big dogs Honda and Toyota dominate the family sedan segment, so Kia is forced to play the “We Are Better Than You” game. On the plus side, the Optima claims more passenger room. But if you’re going to dish it out, you’ve got to take it. In a head-to-head comparison, the Optima is less powerful than its main competitors. The Optima’s 2.7-liter V-6 engine delivers only 170 horsepower compared to the 244-hp Accord and 190-hp Camry. Even the Optima’s all-new inline-four-cylinder engine, offered on both the LX and EX trims, underperforms compared to similar power plants found in competitors’ sedans.
Unfortunately, the penalty for those extra 24 hp the V-6 adds over the inline-4 is poorer fuel economy. In these days of fluctuating gas prices, the four-cylinder engine is the best buy. Paired with the 5-speed manual transmission, it’s also the most fun.
Clearly Kia is paying more attention to the quality of the materials and fit and finish inside the cabin. Various shiny bits subtly highlight newly matching textures and grains. The dash is pleasing illuminated at night in a blue-and-white color scheme. If possible, upgrade to the optional leather seats over the oddly pattered cloth upholstery. They are notably sophisticated and plush.
What Is It?: The 2006.5 Optima is a midsize, four-door, five-passenger sedan; available in two trims — the entry-level LX and upscale EX. Each is offered with a choice of a four- or six-cylinder engine. The 4-cylinder LX runs about $17K including destination charges.
Gadget Rating: 7.5 out of 10. The feature-rich Optima comes with air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, door locks and heated mirrors. The standard audio setup can be upgraded to a lovely 360-watt Infiniti sound system. Demerits for the lack of an iPod jack. Front passengers get both front and side airbags and the full-length side curtain air bags are new this year, but anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, a traction control system and brake assist are only available as add-ons.
Cheat Sheet: Most, but not all, of Kia is owned by Hyundai.
Trivia: Outside of the U.S., the Optima is called the Magentis. Is it just me or do those names sound suspiciously similar to the Transformers Optimus Prime and Megatron? Hmm.