2010 KIA OPTIMA

With sharp styling, power and impressive safety features, the 2010 Optima midsize sedan returns to the Kia Motors America line-up as a real contender within its segment.

For 2010, Optima brings a dynamic tabbed grille found on all new Kia models, as well as enlarged and narrowed headlamps that have a more forceful look. New for 2010, V6 models receive a blacked-out lower rear bumper to enhance the sedan’s refined persona, as well as a push button start feature, standard on all SX trims. The 2010 Kia Optima is available in the value-oriented LX, luxuriously appointed EX and energetic SX trims.

Optima LX presents a sleek profile with clear-lens halogen headlamps, a chrome grille, dual power heated body-color side mirrors with integrated turn signals, body-color door handles, bumpers, side moldings and garnish, a tinted windshield with sunshade band and chrome edging around the windows.

To those looking for additional refinements, the EX also comes equipped with standard front projection fog lamps, chrome door handles and adds solar glass to the tinted windshield with sunshade band.

For a more muscular variation, the Optima SX offers standard blacked-out halogen headlamps, a blacked-out front grille and uniquely designed alloy wheels with hyper-silver finish.

Optima is available in two powerplants, 2.4-liter four-cylinder or 2.7-liter V6 engine, and two five-speed transmissions (manual with LX four-cylinder model only). The 2.4-liter engine produces 175 horsepower. The 2.7-liter V6 engine delivers 194 horsepower.

Base model estimated mpg: 22/32

Estimated starting price: $17,995