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2012 Kia Optima

2012 Kia Optima SX

At a Glance

Pricing $19,500 - $31,050
Drive Types FWD
Engines 2.0l I4 T, 2.4l I4, 2.4l I4 HEV
Transmissions A6, M6
Fuel Economy 22-35 (city), 34-40 (highway)

Our Ratings

Velocity Index 64
Style 4 stars out of 5
Utility 3 stars out of 5
Livability 5 stars out of 5
Value 5 stars out of 5
Fun 3 stars out of 5

Overview Information

The Kia Optima is a five passenger mid-to-large size sedan that competes with cars like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and its sibling the Hyundai Sonata. A long-running nameplate for Kia, the Optima has steadily improved with each design. The latest Optima, introduced as a 2011 model wears such striking styling that buyers are sure to take notice. Like the Sonata, the Optima foregoes V6 power offering only fuel-efficient, four-cylinder engines in its 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 most models. The Optima comes in three trim levels: LX, EX, and SX. Most buyers will probably opt for the well-equipped EX trim level which includes alloy wheels, power equipment, dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery and a power driver's seat. The SX is the sport model and includes the more powerful engine, larger tires and unique upholstery. The Optima range also includes a gasoline/electric hybrid model, but it is not available in all parts of the country.

Official Word:

Since its launch in late 2010, Kia Motors America's (KMA) sleek sedan has stood apart from the crowd in the traditionally mundane midsize segment with its head-turning design, fun-to-drive performance, modern amenities and long list of standard safety features. In its first year on the market, the 2011 Kia Optima earned consumer and critical acclaim while sales increased nearly 150 percent and demand outpaced supply. The extraordinary growth is complemented by a slew of awards and...Read.

Model/Trim/Package EL Engine MPG VjI Base Price
Optima LX 1 2.4l I4 (200-bhp) M6 FWD 24/35/29 57 $19,500
Optima LX 2 2.4l I4 (200-bhp) A6 FWD 24/35/29 53 $21,000
Optima LX Conv 2 2.4l I4 (200-bhp) A6 FWD 24/35/29 53 $21,600
Optima LX Tech, Conv 2 2.4l I4 (200-bhp) A6 FWD 24/35/29 53 $24,300
Optima EX 3 2.4l I4 (200-bhp) A6 FWD 24/35/29 57 $23,200
Optima EX Premium 3 2.4l I4 (200-bhp) A6 FWD 24/35/29 57 $26,150
Optima EX Tech, Premium 4 2.4l I4 (200-bhp) A6 FWD 24/35/29 57 $27,550
Optima EX Turbo 3 2.0l I4 T (274-bhp) A6 FWD 22/34/27 63 $25,100
Optima EX Turbo Premium 3 2.0l I4 T (274-bhp) A6 FWD 22/34/27 63 $28,050
Optima EX Turbo Tech, Premium 4 2.0l I4 T (274-bhp) A6 FWD 22/34/27 63 $29,450
Optima SX 3 2.0l I4 T (274-bhp) A6 FWD 22/34/27 64 $26,500
Optima SX Premium 3 2.0l I4 T (274-bhp) A6 FWD 22/34/27 64 $29,450
Optima SX Tech, Premium 4 2.0l I4 T (274-bhp) A6 FWD 22/34/27 64 $30,650
Optima Limited 4 2.0l I4 T (274-bhp) A6 FWD 22/34/27 64 TBD
Optima Hybrid 2 2.4l I4 HEV (166-bhp) A6 FWD 35/40/37 45 $25,700
Optima Hybrid Premium and Technology 4 2.4l I4 HEV (166-bhp) A6 FWD 35/40/37 49 $31,050

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