In the passenger-car business, the vast gap in the level of quality between the leaders and followers can now be measured in mere inches instead of miles. One of the four-doors that fits within that miniscule gap is Kia's redesigned Optima sedan that arrives this fall.
From humble beginnings back in 2001, the Optima represented an attempt by Hyundai's offshoot division to compete with more established sedan major-leaguers such as the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Malibu plus a sprinkling of other players. Less than a decade later, the Korean-built car runs neck and neck with the pack, especially since the Optima has been restyled and upgraded less than three years after launching its previous-generation model.
Although the previous Optima used the same basic platform as its Hyundai Sonata counterpart, overall length was shorter by about 2.5 inches. That minor shortfall has been addressed, with both models (the Sonata has also been updated for 2009) now virtually equal in size. Most of the Optima's gain is due to a complete redesign of the front end, now displaying a more prominent grille and logo. Also more substantial is a new front bumper and available fog lights, while, conversely, the headlamp pods have been downsized and now blend in with the new grillework. Other physical changes include revised side trim, rear deck lid and taillamps.
The Optima now displays more character, a vital ingredient in getting prospective buyers to connect with the Optima on an emotional level instead of simply relying on its practical nature to generate new or conquest sales from competing sedan brands.
Interior changes include a new dashboard and control panel layout for easier identification and intuitive function. As well, a spot has been created for the navigation system, a first-time offering on the Optima.
The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder now delivers 175 horsepower, a gain of 15 ponies, while the optional 2.7-liter V6 gains five horsepower for a total of 190. Kia claims both engines produce improved economy, although exact figures have not been released.
Interestingly, among the significant platform and component sharing that exists between the Optima and the Hyundai Sonata, the 2.7 motor remains exclusive to the Kia. Meanwhile, the Sonata's upgraded-for-'09 249-horsepower 3.3-liter V6 is not available in the Optima.
A five-speed manual transmission, or optional five-speed automatic is offered with the four-cylinder, while V6 models come with the automatic.
For 2009, the Optima lineup has been increased to three versions: LX; EX; and SX. Base cars include air conditioning, power windows and door locks, six-speaker audio system, multi-adjustable (non-power) driver's and front passenger's seat and a comprehensive rundown of airbags and other safety gear. The EX adds climate control, leather-covered seats, power adjustable driver's seat, tilt and telescopic steering wheel and auto-dimming rearview mirror.
The new-for-2009 SX's exclusive features include a sport-tuned suspension, unique grille and headlight trim, outside-mirror-mounted turn-signal lights, aluminum interior trim with metal accelerator and brake pedals and 17-inch wheels (both LX and EX run on 16-inch rims).
Along with a new navigation package, Optima buyers can add a power sunroof, premium sound system and a wealth of other goodies.
Enough can't be said about Kia's five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage, which has yet to be matched by any of its major competitors, save for Hyundai. That level of protection is yet another reason why the Optima's hair's-breath distance from other mainstream sedans deserves serious consideration by sedan shoppers.
What you should know: 2009 Kia Optima
Type: Four-door, front-wheel-drive mid-size sedan
Engines: 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder (175 hp); 2.7-liter DOHC V6 (190 hp)
Transmissions: Five-speed manual (I4 only); five-speed automatic (opt. on I4, standard on V6).
Market position: As with the similar Hyundai Sonata, the Optima offers plenty and style and content for the money and should continue to attract new customers.
Points: * Slightly larger and more distinctive-looking than outgoing version. * Restyled interior should add customer appeal. * Surprising that Sonata's larger 3.3-liter V6 option not offered in the Optima. * Long warranty inspires buying confidence. * A challenger to Accord, Camry and Malibu sedans, but likely won't beat them in sales. * Definitely worth a look-see for sedan shoppers.
Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; anti-lock brakes;traction control; stability control.
The numbers: MPG (city/hwy), 22/32 (2.4, MT); Base price, $19,000 (est., incl. destination)
By Malcolm Gunn | Wheelbase Communications
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