The Kia Optima enters the new passenger car market with a completely redesigned face for 2011. Revised styling lifts the Optima out of its economy car roots and the vehicle's re-engineered platform is a mechanical twin of the previously mentioned Hyundai Sonata. Although not quite as generously equipped as the Hyundai, the Optima still provides more features than many of its competitors at a similar price point, with items such as keyless entry, air conditioning, a CD player and power windows and door locks all included free of charge in the base model. Kia has worked hard to give the passenger car a completely different look inside and out when compared against the Sonata, but the 2011 Optima still shares its drivetrain DNA with the Hyundai. This means that buyers must choose between a 200 horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 274 horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Highway fuel economy for each motor is rated at 35-mpg and 34-mpg, respectively, and transmission choices include a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.
.jpg)
