The 2011 Kia Optima is finally a car that I would recommend if a friend asked me, "What's the best new mid-size car on the market?"  Scheduled to reach dealers in the fall, this is Kia's fourth home run after the Soul, Forte, and redesigned Sorento.

 

Kia is proud of three powertrains making their debut on the 2011 Optima. Interestingly, they seem to be the same ones from the Hyundai Sonata. Coming under the hoods of Optimas are a 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter GDI turbo engine, or a 2.4-liter hybrid. The 2.4-liter produces 200 horsepower and can be mated a six-speed manual on the LX, or a six-speed auto with manual shifting on LX or EX. The turbo goes into the SX, and pumps out an astonishing 274 horsepower and comes with a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters. Kia is planning to release the hybrid model and powertrain in 2011.

 

Up front, the 2011 Optima looks modern and cleanly designed with selective use of chrome and black plastic. Projector headlights continue from the current generation and flow back with the sheetmetal of the hood to create a sharp crease that flows with the cars beltline. Kia integrated "ports" or side vents into the redesigned sedan, which has a coupe-like profile and a flowing curve of chrome just above the windows. The fender flares are a bit obnoxious, but we like obnoxious, and it makes the 2011 Optima look even sportier.

 

We're in love with the back end. Sleek, modern, Jaguar XF-like but with a twist. The dual exhaust outlets finish it off nicely.

 

Kia says the redesigned 2011 Optima is available in three trim levels, LX, EX and SX. The LX comes with steel wheels and hub caps, which is definitely a step down from the 18-inch black machined finish alloys on the SX. The LX has all of the standard safety and convenience features expected of a car in this class, and the EX only adds fog-lights, 17-inch wheels, and more chrome on the outside. The SX demands attention with standard HID headlights, LED tailights, a unique grille, and red brake calipers.

 

Kia seemed to be benchmarking Audi inside, with a similar layout and high-quality materials throughout. We were actually surprised an automaker could make an interior with this much attention to detail, material texture, and style, at this price.

 

The 2011 Optima is supposed to make the driver feel as if they're in a "cockpit" thanks to the slightly driver-focused dash and meaty, fantastic-feeling steering wheel. Kia is offering paddle shifters, a panoramic sunroof, and standard features like a six-way seat with power lumbar, illuminated mirrors, and a trip computer. The steering column tilts and telescopes, the glovebox is air-conditioned, the rear seats fold 60/40, and there's an EcoMinder light on 2011 Kia Optima LX trims for "optimal" fuel efficient driving.

 

Infotainment and media technology are endless in the redesigned Optima thanks to the new Microsoft UVO system making its debut. It's standard on EX along with push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear vents, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, Homelink to replace a garage door opener, and an eight-way power seat for the driver.

 

The SX trim adds a better gauge cluster, carbon fiber looking inserts, French seams, metal pedals, and metal door scuff plates.

 

The big shocker is what's available on the EX and SX. Features like heated and cooled seats make us wonder what direction Kia is taking this car in since the Hyundai Sonata doesn't offer that. An available Infinity 5.1 sound system pushes out 500-watts of power and comes with HD radio as well. A navigation is available on both EX and SX too.

 

Source: Kia