Early Preview: 2011 Kia Optima Adds Flair And Style

Editor Jeff Fortson is posing with the soon-to-be-released 2011 Kia Optima, while in breezy San Francisco this summer.

Watch out Accord and Camry!  The exterior styling of the 2011 Optima was influenced by the German automaker, Audi.

The redesigned Kia will not offer a 6-cylinder engine. However, like its sibling, the Hyundai Sonata, the vehicle offers a 4-cylinder with and without a turbo-boost. And like the Sonata, pricing for the top of the line Optima will drive-in well-under $30,000. Look for this new-ride to hit dealerships in late fall or early winter. In our eyes, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata is one of the most exciting, affordable priced vehicles in the midsize market. We expect the same of the Optima once it arrives.