What Changed
Kia's mid-sized sedan is all-new for 2011. The most obvious difference is the aggressive new styling. The exterior features a lower roofline with distinctively shaped windows. A strong line runs along the side from the headlamps to the tail lamps. The Optima has grown considerably in wheelbase (2.9 in) and track (1.5 in). The new styling has reduced the height of the car by 1.0 in. Like its corporate relative the Sonata, the Optima features an all four cylinder lineup. A 200-bhp 2.4l four powers most models, but a 274-bhp 2.0l turbo is available in upper trim levels. A six-speed automatic is standard on all models except the base model.
Comparison to Prior Model
| 2011 Kia Optima | 2010 Kia Optima | |
|---|---|---|
| 
| |
| Price Range ($) | $18,995 - $31,500 | $17,995 - $24,795 |
| Length (in) | 190.7 | 189.0 |
| Wheelbase (in) | 110.0 | 107.1 |
| Width (in) | 72.1 | 71.1 |
| Height (in) | 57.3 | 58.3 |
| Track (in) | 63.0 | 61.5 |
| Exterior Volume (cu. ft.) | 398.4 | 392.2 |
| Curb Weight (lbs.) | 3206-3490 | 3157-3294 |
| Legroom Total (in.) | 80.2 | 81.5 |
| Passenger Volume (cu. ft.) | 102.3 | 104.3 |
| Cargo Volume (cu. ft.) | 15.4 | 15.0 |
| Driven Wheels |
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| Engines |
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| Transmissions | A6, M6 | A5, M5 |
| City MPG | 22-34 | 20-22 |
| Highway MPG | 34-39 | 28-32 |
| more >> | more >> |