2006 Kia Optima Review

The often-overlooked Kia Optima probably will be noticed by far more buyers of low-priced mid-size sedans because the new 2006.5 version has slicker styling, more power and additional safety features.

Moreover, the slightly larger, more refined new Optima's prices are close to those of the 2001-2006 version it replaces.

The base Optima LX costs $16,355 with a four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual gearbox and an extra $1,295 with a five-speed automatic transmission. An LX V-6 is $19,345 and comes only with the automatic.

The more upscale EX trim level is sold only with the automatic and costs $19,395 with the four-cylinder and $20,400 with the V-6.

Kia expects that most Optima buyers will get the four-cylinder version with an automatic transmission. Most are expected to be in their 30s to mid-40s with a $60,000-$80,000 household income.

And why not the LX? Even that trim level is decently equipped, with such items as air conditioning, AM/FM/CD sound system, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, manually adjustable driver's seat, cruise control and power windows, locks and heated mirrors.

The EX adds automatic climate control, upgraded sound system and power driver's seat.

Options for all Optimas include $300 anti-lock brakes and a $300 package that contains stability control and traction control. Exclusive EX options are an $800 sunroof and $1,300 leather upholstery package with power front passenger seat and power-adjustable pedals.

Entry level rivals such as the Chevrolet Malibu and Pontiac G6 start with similar prices and come with a standard automatic transmission. But they lack the standard safety features of the Optima; it has six airbags, including front side airbags and newly standard curtain side airbags. There's also a tire pressure monitor and anti-whiplash front head restraints.

Kia is putting more marketing muscle behind the new Optima. Its predecessor had scant marketing support, and most folks wanting a Kia sedan brushed past it and headed for the automaker's Spectra.

Kia wants the redone Optima to help it reach its goal of 500,000 annual U.S. sales by 2010. Last year, the South Korean automaker sold 275,851 vehicles here. It's aiming for at least 50,000 annual U.S. sales of the Optima, compared with 41,349 last year.

While improved, the new Optima's mainstream styling won't turn heads, although that's no drawback because most mid-size Japanese sedan buyers don't want flashy styling. However, the Optima's quiet new interior is more upscale and will comfortably accommodate four tall adults, or five in a pinch. Front seats are supportive and the rear seat is impressively roomy, but has a hard center section. Oversized door handles help allow easy entry.

Some interior surfaces feel rough, but the instrument panel has a design that curves at the corners and flows on to the door panels. Gauges can be read quickly, climate controls are large and radio controls aren't a trial to use. There are a decent number of storage areas, and front cupholders are conveniently located on the front console. Sun visor vanity mirrors have ceiling lights.

The large trunk raises easily on gas struts and features a low, wide opening. Rear seatbacks flip forward for more cargo room. But they don't sit completely flat, and the pass-through area between the trunk and rear-seat area is only moderately large. The seatbacks have trunk releases, which were hard to use in my test car but prevent thieves from gaining access to the trunk from the rear seat.

The front-drive Optima has quick steering and a good ride, but the softness of an older Buick and average handling. However, the brake pedal has a nice linear action for smooth stops.

The 2.4-liter, 161-horsepower engine has gained 23 horsepower from the 2006 model and provides lively acceleration below 60 mph, but average 65-75 mph passing times. The 2.7-liter V-6 has 15 additional horsepower and more torque for stronger performance.

The four-cylinder delivers an estimated 24 mpg in the city and 34 on highways with both the manual and automatic transmissions. The quieter V-6 delivers an estimated 22 and 30.

Hyundai is Kia's corporate parent, so the Optima gets Hyundai's impressive warranty, which includes 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain protection and 5-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance.

Optima owners won't get Toyota or Honda resale values, but few cars do. 

2006.5 KIA OPTIMA 

PRICES: $16,355-$20,400

LIKES: New styling. More power. More safety items. Fairly roomy. Impressive warranty.

DISLIKES: Average handling. Average highway pep with four-cylinder engine.