Somewhere along the automotive timeline traditional family wagons morphed into SUV’s and it seems we can’t get enough of them. With plenty of room for mum, kids and supplies through the week, they can be pressed into service for dad’s adventurous weekend plans – real or imagined. It looks like traditional car based wagons are fast becoming museum pieces. But for budget conscious families “real” 4wd’s can be a pricey step up from the family sized “soft-roaders”. Enter the Kia Sorento. First seen here in 2003, it offers a high-low range drivetrain, loads of space and equipment, all at an attractive price. For 2005 the big Kia gains a five speed “tiptronic” auto, replacing the previous model’s four speed unit.
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The Optima is Kia’s first run at the mid-size class, and while it might not be on the same level as the Honda Accord or
Toyota Camry, it has most of the right stuff to compete. For 2005, this Hyundai Sonata clone receives only minor updates,
including clear turn signals and updated leather seats. The standard engine is a 2.4-liter, DOHC four-cylinder unit making
138 hp. An optional 170-hp, 2.7-liter V-6 is also available. The four-cylinder is offered with a Sportmatic automatic
transmission. The Optima comes in two trim levels: LX and EX. LX’s get standard power windows, a CD player, cruise
control, and air conditioning. The EX adds alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather, climate control, and keyless entry. The Optima
is a sophisticated car-right on target for the mid-priced class and, as a bonus, it carries Kia’s killer 10-year/100,000-mile
warranty.
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The 2009 Optima is presented with new front, side and rear styling cues, which build upon
Kia Motors’ philosophy of creating dynamic vehicles that evoke passion. The fog lamps and
lower front grille have been enlarged and the headlamps narrowed to create an aggressively
sharper look. Wider side garnishes add sportiness while the acute front lines continue toward the
back, ending on a distinctly edged trunk lid. To complete the redesigned rear fascia, tail lights are
narrowed to enhance Optima’s sleeker cosmetic appearance.
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