Base price: $15,995; V-6, $18,390
Vehicle type: front-engine, front-drive, 4-door, 5-passenger sedan
Interior volume, F/R/cargo (cu ft) 56/44/14
Wheelbase 106.3 in
Length/width/height 185.8/71.5/55.5 in
Turning circle 34.1 ft
Curb weight 3100 lb
EPA city/hwy mpg 20–23/27–29
Fuel-tank capacity/range 17.2 gal/344–396 mi
Passive restraints driver and passenger front and side airbags
POWERTRAIN
2.4-liter DOHC 16 valve 4-in-line, 138 hp; 2.7-liter DOHC 24-valve V-6, 170 hp; 5-sp man, 4-sp auto
SUSPENSION
F ind, unequal length control arms, coil springs, anti-roll bar
R ind, multilink, coil springs, anti-roll bar
BRAKES
F/R vented disc/disc
ABS optional
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KIA OPTIMA
The Optima is Kia’s first run at the mid-size class and, while it might not be on the same level as the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, it has most of the right stuff to compete. For 2003 this Hyundai Sonata clone receives only minor updates including a freshened front end and some interior refinements. The standard engine is a four-cylinder 2.4-liter DOHC unit making 137 hp. An optional 170-hp, 2.7-liter V-6 is also available. The four-cylinder is now offered with a Sportmatic automatic transmission. The Optima comes in two trim levels: base LX and SE. LXs get standard power windows, a CD player, cruise control, air conditioning. The SE adds alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather, climate control, and keyless entry. The Optima is a sophisticated car—right on target for the mid-size class—and, as a bonus, it carries Kia’s killer 10-year/100,000-mile warranty.
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