New 2010 Kia Optima

Offering excellent value, a spacious interior, and a choice of fuel-efficient, powerful engines, the 2010 Kia Optima is a well-rounded sedan with tons of features.

A less-expensive but not-as-well-equipped version of the Hyundai Sonata, the 2010 Kia Optima is available in LX, EX and SX trim levels and powered by either a 175-horsepower, 2.4-liter inline-4 or 194-horsepower, 2.7-liter V-6, the Optima is coupled to a standard five-speed manual transmission or optional five-speed automatic. EPA estimated fuel economy ratings are impressive, ranging between 20-22 mpg in the city and 28-32 mpg on the highway.

Fresh off a 2009 facelift and competing against the likes of Toyota Camry and Honda Accord in the midsize sedan segment, the 2010 Kia Optima sits on 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels and now offers standard push-button start with a smart key on the sporty SX trim with the V-6 engine. A sport-tuned suspension (standard on SX), dark headlights, power sunroof, side-mirror-mounted turn signals and fog lamps can be had as options.

The 2010 Kia Optima’s interior is adorned in standard cloth seats with optional leather upholstery and custom leather seating and trim on the SX. Sounds are provided by a six-speaker stereo system with a CD player, satellite radio and auxiliary and USB audio jacks or an upgraded system with a subwoofer and six-CD/MP3 changer. An overhead interior light is now standard on all trims and a navigation system and heated front seats are available as options. The EX adds automatic climate control, an eight-way power driver seat and a trip computer. A 60/40-split folding rear seat provides more cargo-carrying options and the trunk capacity is 15 cubic feet.

When it comes to safety, the 2010 Kia Optima is at the forefront in standard offerings that have helped it to earn a perfect five stars for side-impact protection in government crash tests and the highest rating in frontal offset crash tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. These features include traction control, an electronic stability system, antilock brakes, active head restraints, side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags for both rows.

Loaded with standard safety technology, numerous options and reassuring fuel economy, the 2010 Kia Optima provides varied levels of comfort with three well-equipped trim levels to choose from.