2009 Kia Optima 4dr Sdn I4 Man LX

Introduction

All the competition offer more powerful V6 engines.

Optima is less rounded than the average sedan so it has plenty of headroom and a light and airy cabin.

Other notable news includes a standard audio system with MP3 capability, iPod and USB inputs and Sirius satellite radio with three-month subscription.

The 2009 Optima is three inches longer than its predecessor and, with restyling front and rear, comes across as much sleeker.

The front-wheel-drive Optima offers a choice of four-cylinder or six-cylinder engine, each of which ranks near top of its class for fuel efficiency.

The Optima plays in a contested market that includes the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima, Mitsubishi Galant, Chevy Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Mazda6, Subaru Legacy, and sister-car Hyundai Sonata. Despite a thorough redesign just two years ago the 2009 Kia Optima receives significant updates: updated styling, new features and packaging, more powerful and more economical powertrains, and a new SX version. However, only the heavier Altima and Accord have a more powerful four-cylinder engine, only the Sonata can match Kia's long standard warranty, only the Altima can match Optima's EPA ratings, and the Optima is the least expensive. The 2.7-liter V6 is smoother and slightly more powerful with 194 hp and earns an EPA-estimated 20/28 mpg. The high-volume EX model won't leave you wanting for more features, and every Optima includes six airbags and stability control. The new SX model features 17-inch wheels, a recalibrated suspension, blacked-out front trim, aluminum interior trim and leather/cloth upholstery. The Subaru has all-wheel drive standard and it's optional on the Fusion and Avenger, while the Camry, Fusion, Altima and Malibu offer hybrid versions. Voice-recognition navigation is available. We like the standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder; rated at 175 horsepower, it's among the strongest in the class with and gets an EPA-rated 22/32 City/Highway miles per gallon.

Walkaround

A continuous curve marking the front bumper comes across as a smile and mimics the aerial-view curve of the leading edges of the hood and fenders.

Compared to the sedans in this segment the Optima has the shortest wheelbase and the shortest overall length, typically by just an inch or two, but has among the widest tracks (distance between left and right side wheels) in its class.

In keeping with that the tail is clean and uncluttered.

Optima's styling leans more to convention than cutting edge, with a near-level shoulder character line from front lights to rear and none of the elliptical window and roof lines becoming ever more popular.

Side mirrors are rectangular, the same general shape as most of the vehicles you will see in them.

SX models get the usual visual upgrades for sporty models with a black mesh grille and blacked-out headlight housings, and painted alloy wheels. A rib section below the doors to add style and deflect debris is cleanly integrated. And the flat trunk lid means an opening large enough to avoid contortions loading large suitcases or awkward cargo. Broad expanses of glass front and rear add spaciousness and improve outward visibility. By nature mid-size family sedans have conservative styling and in this respect the Kia Optima fits right in. It won't attract undue attention from law enforcement or thieves, nor will it attract any criticism regarding appearance or finish. Large door handles are easy to grab for anyone and chrome (EX) doesn't suffer ring and fingernail scratches quite like paint. Optima is also the lightest car in its class; less weight translates to better acceleration and fuel economy, all other factors being equal. Simple six-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels on our example match the mission ideally, easy to clean (no sand, salt, or snow buildup pockets) and don't stick out beyond the tire sidewall where they're prone to scuffing. Tail lights do what they should without looking to jet into the 22nd century; signals are red and to avoid confusion by following drivers they don't share a bulb with the brake lights. The black sections above the fog lamps in the lower outboard grilles don't look like bumpers but they do protrude very slightly and will take the brunt of any close-quarter scrapes and save some paint bills. The roof is relatively flat, yielding a decent-size sunroof, headroom all around, and rear side door openings you don't have to duck under to get in. The smooth wraparound lamp housings with projector low-beams remind us of earlier Acura TSX and TL models and Kia's newest design language seen on the Forte. The tailpipes on V6 models exit straight rearward in bumper cutouts. They fold narrower than the car and have signal repeaters on the outer edges; misjudge a garage or toll booth opening and that will be the most vulnerable point.

Driving Impression

An aggressive throttle tip-in is the only negative in the drive.

Direct comparisons between the Optima vs.

For 2009, the steering has been tightened to remove any feeling of top-heaviness, an improvement over pre-2009 models.

However, the Optima's V6 fuel mileage ranks above the others.

Optima's V6 is just 0.3 liters larger than the four-cylinder engine.

Outward visibility is excellent all around, thanks to the high seating position, low window line, and flat trunk lid.

The four-cylinder Optima has more than enough power for virtually any occasion and is quicker than most in its class.

The four-wheel disc brakes work well, with excellent pedal feel to creep smoothly in gridlock or stop quickly from speed without tossing heads about.

The least expensive Optima comes with a five-speed manual gearbox that's easy to use and gets the best out of the four-cylinder engine.

The suspension is independent all around and accommodates interstate expansion joints and speed humps with equal ease. After some winding roads, transition ramps and tire squealing we can tell you the Optima behaves as a family sedan should. Although the extra power may be useful the bigger advantage is in smoothness and refinement; if you drive hard or frequent mountain roads fully loaded, or the V6 adds notably to resale value we'd consider it, otherwise the standard four-cylinder engine is more than satisfactory. An Altima may be more sporting, an up-level Camry or Accord more refined, an all-wheel-drive Fusion, Avenger or Legacy better in the snow. Antilock and electronic stability control are both standard to give better control when you should have slowed down. As a result it adds 19 horsepower for a total of 194 horsepower. Body roll is well controlled. But they're all more expensive, more so than a set of winter tires. comparably priced and equipped competition are difficult because the Optima is typically less expensive or better equipped. Driving habits will vary fuel economy far more than the choice of transmission. Handling is predictable, the car generally going where you point it in a stable, controlled manner. If this happens, however, the electronic stability control steps in to mitigate. It applies significant power with just a light touch of the pedal, producing three characteristics: first, smooth takeoffs require some concentration that will become second nature over time; second, it is harder to modulate steady cruising speed and we used cruise control more than usual; and third, the sensitivity makes it downshift and upshift frequently on mild grades, where it is best to downshift one gear manually for the best smoothness. Its competitors range from 221 hp to 271 hp. Kia Optima's four-cylinder engine has essentially the same power vs. Like most sedans, it understeers at the limit: If you hit a corner too fast the car would tend to go straight. Optima posts better EPA ratings than anything else in class, the Altima one better in the city and one behind on the highway. Our mileage averaged 26-28 mpg. Steering is heavy at slow speeds and lightens comfortably at speed without becoming vague. The 17-inch wheel-and-tire package takes away little in ride quality, though the SX's sportier suspension setup likely feels firmer on marginal roads. The five-speed automatic does that too, though it is programmed like everything else to upshift as soon as possible to save fuel. the Honda Accord and nearly the same vs. The Kia Optima comes with a choice engines, a four-cylinder or a V6. the Nissan Altima, both larger, heavier cars. This is a complaint we have with a fair number of cars and reduces their attractiveness for grueling commutes in stop-and-go traffic. We found the accelerator very sensitive. Wind noise will start to creep in as you reach southwest speed limits (75-80 mph) but not enough to raise your voice in conversation.

Interior

Inset shaded luminescent gauges with white numerals and red needles are easily read and give speed, engine rpm and temperature, and fuel level.

Oft-used controls are on steering-column stalks, lights on the left and wash/wipe on the right.

Optima LX comes with cloth upholstery, Optima EX with perforated leather.

Overhead are lit visor vanity mirrors, map lights, sunglasses holder and sunroof controls with separate buttons for tilt and slide functions.

The front seats are thick and supportive, a few might say aggressive on lumbar support and offer a relatively high seating position even with the cushion as low as it goes.

The rear seat is nicely contoured in the outer positions.

The tilt and telescoping steering wheel on all Optima automatics has audio controls on the left and cruise on the right; on most it is covered in leather like the shift handle which makes the plastic handbrake stand out.

Trunk space and access are typical for the class.

Two large vents frame the stereo controls; cars with navigation use this space and integrate the audio. A temporary spare tire is under the floor. As with many cars, if you wear polarized sunglasses wear them on a test drive to ensure they work with the various digital and map displays. Cargo nets and organizers are available. Despite its relatively small outside dimensions, the Kia Optima trails only the Nissan Altima in front legroom among eight popular sedans and is mid-pack or better for other measurements, the delta usually a fraction of an inch. EX trim such as door handles is a titanium color. Foot room under the front seats allows the Optima to accommodate four six-foot passengers with ease; the rear center seat position has sufficient padding but the raised profile makes it best for kids. Honda Accord (classified a Large Car by the EPA), the big Accord clearly leads the pack in front headroom and rear shoulder room, but the Optima measures more legroom front and rear. Instrument lighting is not adjustable without lights on, and all switchgear, including those on the steering wheel and audio inputs but not the mirror and power lock switch, are illuminated. Kia Optima is compact on the outside but large on the inside, suggesting an space-efficient design. Lower doors and trim pieces are hard plastic, easy to clean, not the nicest to touch, and wholly appropriate for the market and price. More stowage is found in the glovebox, door pockets, a CD wallet-size covered space below the climate controls, and a hook for a purse or grocery bag on the right side of the center console. Operation of the audio, navigation and automatic climate control is simple. Optima SX features woven inserts on black leather and aluminum trim around the shifter and center switch panel, metal pedals, and a revised instrument display (same data) called Supervision. Optima's 15-cubic-foot trunk betters that of the big Accord and the Galant, virtually matches the Camry and Malibu, and trails the Fusion by 0.8 cubic feet and the Mazda6 by twice that. Power-adjustable pedals and four-way power for the passenger seat are optional. Seatbelt buckles are mounted to short belts (rather than rigidly anchored) so they move aside and allow those with a waist larger than 28 inches to avoid sitting with the buckle wedged in their backside. The central display, handles odometer, gear, and trip computer data that includes outside temperature. The console houses a bin under the armrest, cupholders, gated shift lever, and a well ahead with aux/iPod/USB inputs. The driver's seat on the EX is eight-way power adjustable. The leather appears rugged and long wearing rather than supple and baby soft, and a similar material covers upper door panels and armrests. The moonroof shade stayed in position even during hard acceleration and braking which can't be said for many more expensive cars. The only thing a load might get caught on are the seatback releases at the top corners. The rear doors open with sufficient space to put a size 13 boot between seat and door post, so most will enter and exit the back seats easily. The split rear seat folds narrow-side behind the driver but does not make a full-length flat load floor. The substantial rear center armrest has cupholders and storage, with small bins in the doors for MP3 players or phones. The switch panel on the left dash has stability control, dash lights and the power adjustable pedals. The trunk can be opened by a key in case your remote battery dies and you don't want to open the door first. There are assist handles and seatback pockets on both sides, a coat hook on the driver side, optional rear sunshade, and the rear side windows roll all the way down. There's plenty of headroom for this arrangement, even with a moonroof, and an excellent view in all directions; those who like the armored-car cocoon sensation of a Chrysler 300 or Hummer will not feel quite so comfortable. Upper interior panels are black to minimize reflections. We found the air conditioning system dealt with triple digit heat quickly and without excessive fan speeds and noise. When comparing Kia Optima vs.

Summary

NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent drove the Optima in Los Angeles; Tom Lankard contributed to this report. It has the best warranty in the segment and, feature for feature it costs significantly less than all of them. Its available four-cylinder engine is among the class leaders in output and efficiency, the ride and handling more than capable, and the packaging shows smaller outside doesn't mean smaller inside. The Kia Optima is solid family sedan transport with comfortable space for four.

Liked Most

"There's nothing cheap or flimsy to be seen in the Optima. Tasteful titanium-hued accent plates lock together with the rest of the interior trim with aircraft accuracy, most of the seams carefully lap-jointed to hide fissures. All drawers and hand grips slide with spring-damped motion. It's a soft-touch, low-gloss, fine-grained home run."
By CAR AND DRIVER

"While the V6 won't inspire thrills, it's smooth and quiet, and offers decent acceleration and enough thrust for confident merging on the highway."
By EDMUNDS.COM

Liked Least

"Spongy suspension, styling has high yawn factor."
By CAR AND DRIVER

One-Liners " Surprisingly delightful for fewer dollars."

Car Connection Review

2009 KIA OPTIMA STYLING | [5 out of 10]


Cars.com: "New face seems derivative of a lot of other cars"

Autoblog: "Though all the sheetmetal is new, the '09 Optima still looks as interesting as white bread"

ConsumerGuide: "Shares its basic design with the Hyundai Sonata"

J.D. Power: "Interior styling upgrades and added stereo features complete the makeover"

The Kia Optima lineup gets a makeover for 2009, but reviews read by TheCarConnection.com reveal that this mid-size sedan is still a styling disappointment.

The Kia Optima last underwent a major redesign in 2006, but in response to broad criticism of the Optima's style, Kia unleashed a mid-cycle update in the form of the 2009 Kia Optima. Unfortunately, the new looks have done little to increase the Kia Optima's visual appeal. Edmunds contends that the 2009 Kia Optima's "styling allows it to blend seamlessly into any automotive crowd," and Cars.com reports that the "new face seems derivative of a lot of other cars--the headlights look like a Toyota Camry's, while the interplay between the grille and lights recalls a similar pattern on the new Honda Accord." Autoblog reviewers are particularly blunt, claiming that although "all the sheetmetal is new, the '09 Optima still looks as interesting as white bread." Jalopnik does appreciate the upgrades, however, noting that the 2009 Kia Optima is "a definite improvement over the 'only as a rental car' original design." For those who don't value styling as much as the Kia Optima's more redeeming qualities and are still interested in buying one, Cars.com says "trim levels include the base LX, uplevel EX and sporty SX."

Although you can't always judge a book by its cover, you can judge the Kia Optima's cabin styling by its exterior sheetmetal. Edmunds says that the interior is "hardly a vibrant environment." Cars.com, meanwhile, informs that "Kia didn't alter the [Kia] Optima's interior as much as it did the exterior; the most notable change is probably the gauges, now framed inside three binnacles instead of a one-piece display." One surprising review of the Kia Optima's interior comes from Cars.com, where some reviewers make the following observation: "A relentlessly detailed and fastidiously executed interior that shames pricier cars here? Watch out, Kia has caught Toyota (and others) napping."

Conclusion: Despite Kia's best efforts to bring some style to the 2009 Kia Optima, the sedan is still as bland as ever.



2009 KIA OPTIMA PERFORMANCE | [6 out of 10]

Cars.com: "Optima's engines have been upgraded, and Kia says gas mileage stays about the same"

Autoblog: "Still underpowered in our book compared to other mid-sizers"

ConsumerGuide: "5-speed manual transmission is standard on the 4-cylinder LX"

Through the wonders of modern automotive technology, Kia has endowed both of the 2009 Kia Optima's engines with more power yet managed to keep fuel economy at about the same levels as last year's model. Sadly, the extra power isn't enough to make the Kia Optima even remotely exciting to drive.

According to Cars.com, the 2009 Kia Optima is available with a standard "2.4-liter four-cylinder [that] makes 175 horsepower, up from 162 hp last year," while the available "2.7-liter V-6 is up to 190 hp from 185 hp last year." Though the power boost is welcome, Autoblog says the Kia Optima is "still underpowered in our book compared to other mid-sizers that have been offering 3.5L+ V6 engines producing 250 horsepower for some time." Reviews read by TheCarConnection.com are hardly enthusiastic about the performance of either engine. Car and Driver reports that the 2009 Kia Optima has "Joe Average performance," and ConsumerGuide warns that the Kia Optima "strains to provide highway passing power." Overall, Edmunds advises that consumers "stick with the base four-cylinder engine, as it provides fully adequate performance while keeping the price tag and fuel consumption low."

The 2009 Kia Optima is available with a choice of two transmissions, and Cars.com notes that the automatic "has a manual-shift mode." Both transmissions are available with the four-cylinder engine, although the V-6 is mated exclusively to the five-speed automatic. Like the rest of the 2009 Kia Optima, nothing about the transmissions stands out as being much better than average. ConsumerGuide finds that "with either engine, the automatic transmission's upshifts are occasionally lazy and downshifts can be tardy." On the positive side, Edmunds remarks that while the Optima's "five-speed automatic is reluctant to downshift...there is a manual mode when you want some extra punch."

For an adequately powered mid-size sedan, the 2009 Kia Optima doesn't exactly excel in the fuel economy department. According to the official EPA estimates, the 2009 Kia Optima four-cylinder will get 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway with either transmission, while the V-6 returns ratings of 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

Unlike the styling and engine output, little has changed for the 2009 Kia Optima regarding ride quality and handling. Overall, the ride is pleasant, although larger bumps can unsettle the Kia Optima. Car and Driver appreciates the Kia Optima's "good road manners," but warns that the Optima's "sporting pretensions [are] still only pretensions...there is nothing in its persona to tempt enthusiasts." ConsumerGuide also claims that though the Kia Optima is "no sports sedan...it is a bit more athletic than the similar Hyundai Sonata." Kelley Blue Book adds that the Kia Optima's "body roll is minimal and the Optima enjoys a balanced feel." Edmunds reviewers sum up the Optima rather nicely, commenting it is "no hot rod, though its responsive suspension and steering make it reasonably fun to drive around town," but "driven aggressively on back roads, the Optima loses that sporting disposition."

Conclusion: The 2009 Kia Optima is a capable commuter, as long as you don't mind that fuel economy lags behind most competitors.



2009 KIA OPTIMA COMFORT AND QUALITY | [7 out of 10]



J.D. Power: "Optima LX comes with gray or beige cloth upholstery"

Car and Driver: "Posteriors in front sink into buckets with a cushy top layer"

ConsumerGuide: "Decent-size trunk has hinges that don't intrude into cargo space"

The addition of three inches to the 2009 Kia Optima's overall length brings it more in line with the mid-size sedan segment and adds to its already impressive interior room.

The Kia Optima offers seating for five within its comfortable interior, which is highlighted by a pair of well-executed front seats. Car and Driver says that "posteriors in front sink into buckets with a cushy top layer akin to a pillow-top mattress," although they add that "side support is wanting." ConsumerGuide agrees, finding that the seats "offer little lateral support in turns," but there is "sufficient legroom and adequate headroom for tall drivers" in the twin bucket seats up front.

The backseat isn't quite up to par with the front seats, but it's far from the worst in the mid-size segment, based on reviews read by TheCarConnection.com. ConsumerGuide points out that "knee space grows tight if the front seats are far back," while taller passengers will be disappointed to learn that the "mediocre headroom is diminished further by the sunroof housing." Edmunds simply states that, while the "Kia Optima's cabin is spacious," the rear "seat bottoms are a little short, offering less support for long-limbed occupants than many rivals' accommodations."

The practical 2009 Kia Optima excels in terms of storage space, both inside the cabin and the trunk. ConsumerGuide finds that the Kia Optima offers a "decent-size trunk [that] has hinges that don't intrude into cargo space," while Edmunds says that "trunk capacity is 14.8 cubic feet, and all Kia Optimas have a 60/40-split-folding rear seat." Moving inside the 2009 Kia Optima, ConsumerGuide notes "sufficient cabin storage with an ample glovebox, door map pockets, and an armrest console."

Interior materials are a pleasant surprise on the Kia Optima, with many reviewers raving about the quality of the pieces. Edmunds says that the 2009 Kia Optima's "interior materials as a whole give an impression of quality," while Cars.com mentions that the Kia Optima SX gets "electroluminescent gauges, custom leather seats and metallic trim." Kelley Blue Book also reports that "even in base LX form, the Optima's interior materials rate well above merely acceptable," and on "those cars with leather we were impressed by the leather's tone and its perforated texture."

While materials are a definite plus for the 2009 Kia Optima, noise levels are once again more in line with the class average. Although Car and Driver claims that the "2.4-liter GEMA engine...mostly hums quietly to itself and winds to high revs without major vibes," ConsumerGuide feels that the Optima's "four-cylinder emits a thrashy groan at full throttle...the V-6 is noticeably quieter but is less refined than most rivals V-6s."

Conclusion: The 2009 Kia Optima excels in terms of materials and utility but loses points for its noisy, unrefined engines.



2009 KIA OPTIMA SAFETY | [7 out of 10]

Cars.com: "Unfortunately, antilock brakes, an electronic stability system and traction control are grouped together in an option package"

NHTSA: Five stars, front impact; five stars, side impact

IIHS: "Good," frontal offset impact; "acceptable," side impact

The 2009 Kia Optima earns some of the best safety ratings of any vehicle on the road, but TheCarConnection.com's research reveals a few flaws with the Kia Optima's safety features.

When it comes to crash-test ratings, you won't find many better than the 2009 Kia Optima's. NHTSA awards the Kia Optima perfect five-star ratings in both the front impact and side impact categories, while the Optima also scores four stars for rollover resistance. The IIHS results are comforting as well, with the Kia Optima garnering the highest possible rating of "good" for the frontal offset impact test and a second-best rating of "acceptable" for side impacts. Edmunds reviewers note that these are "excellent crash scores" from both agencies and should boost the Kia Optima's standing with the safety-conscious.

The refreshed Kia Optima offers a mixed bag of safety features. On the positive side, ConsumerGuide points out that "available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags." Cars.com adds that "active head restraints" are standard, but "unfortunately, antilock brakes, an electronic stability system and traction control are grouped together in an option package; the Accord and Sonata include those features standard."

In terms of driver visibility, which is one oft-overlooked element of overall safety, the 2009 Kia Optima offers a better-than-average view. Kelley Blue Book feels that the 2009 Kia Optima provides a "nice balance between outward visibility and efficient aerodynamics," while ConsumerGuide reports that "visibility is fine in all directions."

Conclusion: The 2009 Kia Optima has reassuring crash-test scores, but safety-concerned shoppers will have to check some option boxes.



2009 KIA OPTIMA FEATURES | [7 out of 10]

Cars.com: "SX trims have electroluminescent gauges, custom leather seats and metallic trim"

Autoblog: "Way more ways to plug into your consumer electronics"

ConsumerGuide: "Among the available features on the EX and SX are heated front seats, remote engine start, and a sunroof"

It's surprising what you can get for a relatively low base price these days, and in this world of surprises, the 2009 Kia Optima offers some big ones.

The 2009 Kia Optima is available in three trims: LX, EX, and new-for-2009 SX, with minor visual differences between the three. According to Cars.com, "sixteen-inch steel wheels come on the four-cylinder Optima LX, while other trims have 16-inch alloys" and the Kia Optima "SX has 17-inchers." Otherwise, the trims are nearly identical.

Reviews read by TheCarConnection.com report an impressive number of standard features inside the 2009 Kia Optima. Car and Driver finds that the 2009 Kia Optima delivers "high standard-feature content [and] lots of standard features," as Cars.com adds that "air conditioning, power windows and locks, heated mirrors and a six-speaker CD stereo are standard." While the LX comes with standard cloth seats, ConsumerGuide notes that "leather upholstery is standard" on the EX, and Cars.com states that "SX trims have electroluminescent gauges, custom leather seats and metallic trim." Kia Optima V-6 versions come with dual exhaust outlets, while J.D. Power reports that "a new audio system in the 2009 Kia Optima is MP3 compatible and Sirius satellite radio capable, and features a USB port and an auxiliary jack."

For those who crave customization for their 2009 Kia Optima, the optional features list won't disappoint. J.D. Power says that "an optional navigation system is a first" for the Kia Optima, while ConsumerGuide lists "heated seats, sunroof, and power-adjustable pedals" among the other options. Kelley Blue Book calls the 2009 Kia Optima "well-equipped...above the basic transportation category," and Autoblog reviewers note that you have "way more ways to plug into your consumer electronics (USB, MP3 player plug, etc.)" with the new 2009 Kia Optima. The one major feature lacking from the 2009 Kia Optima is a Bluetooth connection for your cell phone.

Conclusion: A new navigation system for the 2009 Kia Optima rounds out what was already an impressive list of optional features for the Optima lineup.