EDMUNDS.COM 2004 KIA OPTIMA
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
The Optima trails its Japanese competitors when it comes to overall polish, but those seeking a stylish, well-equipped family sedan for less than $20K will find this Kia appealing.
Pros
Excellent warranty, pleasant highway ride, lots of features for the price.
Cons
Noisy four-cylinder engine, some cheap interior bits, ABS isn''t available on four-cylinder models.
What''s New for 2004
The Kia Optima receives only minor revisions for the 2004 model year. The grille has been revised, 16-inch wheels are now standard on V6 models and the alloy wheels on the EX (last year''s SE) have been redesigned. Finally, an in-glass antenna replaces the old power mast style unit from last year, but only on the EX and the LX with the optional cassette/CD audio system.
Overview
Introduction:
Introduced late in the 2001 model year, the Optima is the first progeny of 1998''s Hyundai-Kia merger and shares its underpinnings with the Hyundai Sonata. Both are midsize sedans vying for space in the competitive family sedan segment. While unable to promise the legendary reliability and assured resale value associated with uber-family-haulers like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, the Optima appeals to those who frown at the idea of paying $20 grand for a four-cylinder Camry LE or Accord LX. For thousands less, you get an Optima fully equipped and with V6 power.Company officials readily admit that the Optima isn''t going to steal any sales records from the leaders in this class, but those with an open mind will be impressed by its solid build quality and comfortable ride. You won''t find the finest-quality interior materials or cutting-edge safety features like stability control or head curtain airbags, but this Kia is well suited for commuter or family duty thanks to a spacious cabin and a comfortable ride quality.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The midsize Optima sedan is sold in two trim levels -- LX and EX. The LX comes with 15-inch wheels (16s on V6 models); side airbags; a CD player; air conditioning; power windows, locks and mirrors; a 60/40-split folding rear seat; and cruise control. The EX comes with quite a bit more. On the outside, there are alloy wheels, foglights, heated side mirrors, a power antenna and a sunroof. Inside, you''ll find keyless entry, upgraded cloth upholstery, a power driver seat, wood grain trim, automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a 120-watt sound system with a CD and cassette player. Options include a sound system upgrade for LX models, a leather upholstery package (with a power front-passenger seat) for EX models and antilock brakes for vehicles equipped with the V6 engine (available on both trims).
Powertrains and Performance:
Optima buyers have two engine choices -- a base 138-horsepower, 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder or a 170-hp, 2.7-liter V6. In our experience, the four-cylinder comes up short in power and refinement. While the V6 won''t inspire thrills, it''s smooth and quiet, and offers decent acceleration and enough thrust for confident merging on the highway. The four-cylinder can be mated to a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic with a manual-shift mode; the V6 comes with the automatic only. Mileage ratings are 22 mpg city/30 highway with the four-cylinder and 20/27 with the V6.
Safety:
Vehicles equipped with the V6 get four-wheel disc brakes with ABS as an option. Side airbags for front occupants and three-point seatbelts for all five seating positions are standard in every Optima. In government crash tests, the Optima earned four stars for driver and front-passenger protection in a frontal impact. The IIHS gave the Optima a rating of "Acceptable" (the second highest of four) after conducting its frontal offset crash test.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Inside, the Optima offers attractive if not upscale accommodations -- the seats are plush and most drivers will be able to find a comfortable driving position. Interior materials are on the economy side, but they''re acceptable in a car that costs less than $20,000. Drivers will find logically arranged radio and climate controls, and in EX models, warm faux wood accents and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The 14-cubic-foot trunk offers a low lift-over height and closes with struts to avoid crushing cargo.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
The Optima will appeal to commuters who want comfortable transportation for the day-to-day grind. The ride is stable and smooth, though bumps and ruts are transmitted to the cabin a little more harshly than they should be. The steering, while light and somewhat flighty on the highway, is nonetheless linear and direct, and around-town maneuvers are accomplished with ease.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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