Kia Optima (NEW FOR 2007!)

Impressions: Kia's philosophy, it seems, is to try just that much harder than the competition to introduce fresh product and avoid being considered stale and outdated. And results of this energetic effort are clearly visible in the 2007 Optima, a vehicle that goes the extra distance to earn the respect of its peers while increasing showroom traffic. Although the Optima aligns itself with the recently redone Hyundai Sonata (Hyundai owns Kia) on the mid-size sedan scale, it's more of a close cousin than a twin. In fact, the Optima is slightly smaller in most key dimensions than the Sonata although it's actually bigger than the car it replaces. It has also received a redesigned interior, which is more appealing than that of the previous model. The base engine is a 161-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 23 more ponies than last year's 2.4. The optional 2.7-liter V6 delivers 185 horses, a gain of 15. The four-cylinder comes with a five-speed manual transmission or optional five-speed automatic. Going with the V6 gets you the latter (in this case, no manual is offered). As a point of differentiation, the Sonata's optional and more muscular 3.3-liter V6 is nowhere to be found in the Optima lineup. Base LX four-cylinder cars equipped with the manual transmission arrive with air conditioning, power door locks and heated power outside mirrors. You'll have to spring for the automatic transmission to get keyless remote entry, cruise control and tilt/telescopic steering. Moving up to the EX adds more gauges and interior trim as well as climate control, a premium audio system and an eight-way power driver's seat. The EX is also the way to go if you're looking for a leather interior with heated front seats, manual rear-window sunshade and power-adjustable pedals, all of which are on the options list. All V6 Optimas can be had with a sporty appearance package that includes 17-inch wheels, blacked-out grille and aluminum-look interior trim. Factor in a reassuring five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage and Kia has every reason to be optimistic about the Optima's future.. Base price: $16,400 Type: Four-door sedan Base engine (hp): 2.4-liter DOHC I4 (161) Optional engine (hp): 2.7-liter DOHC V6 (185) Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive Transmissions: Five-speed manual (2.4 only); four-speed automatic (opt.) Mileage (city/hwy): 24/34 (2.4) Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; anti-lock brakes; traction control (opt.); stability control (opt.); tire-pressure monitoring. Weight (lb.): 3,240 Basic warranty: 5/60,000 Roadside assistance: Yes Web: kia.com