Kia Prices Much-Anticipated Optima Under $20,000

The sexy looking 2011 Optima is available in three trims: LX, EX and SX. The Optima LX six-speed manual, with a starting MSRP of $18,995, offers a wide array of convenience and luxury features including an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system with SIRIUS^® Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service, power windows, power door locks, dual exhaust with chrome tips, a cooling glove box and auxiliary USB audio input jacks for connecting MP3 Players and Bluetooth^® wireless technology connectivity with steering-wheel mounted voice activation controls to enable hands-free operation for compatible mobile phones. Pricing for its upscale sibling, the Hyundai Sonata, starts at $19,125.

All Optima models feature an extensive list of standard safety equipment, including six airbags (dual advanced front and front-seat mounted side as well as full-length side curtain). Moving up to the LX six-speed A/T, starting at $20,495, adds alloy wheels, cruise control and an Active Eco System for fuel-efficient driving. Beginning at $22,495, the Optima EX offers upscale amenities in a mid-level trim, including 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, leather trimmed seats, eight-way power driver's seat, dual-zone automatic temperature control, push-button start and auto-dimming rear view mirror with Homelink^® and compass. Priced at $24,495, the Optima EX turbo is powered by Kia's first-ever turbo engine in the U.S., a 2.0-liter 274-horsepower Turbo engine that delivers up to 34 mpg, and adds larger front disc brakes, a unique front grille, and wood and metal interior accents

Positioned at the top of the Optima model range, the SX package (featured in the photos above) starts at $25,995. Kia's 2.0-liter turbo engine is standard and exclusive content includes 18-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, unique lower body trim, HID head lights, LED tail lights, black leather and woven seat trim, steering wheel paddle shifters, carbon fiber interior trim, metal pedals, and illuminated door scuff plates. We look forward to an extensive review of the vehicle in the first quarter of 2011.

Pricing for the 2010 Optima starts at $17,995. So far the dated design 2010 Kia  has sold 22,852 Optimas in the first 10 months of this year, down 33 percent from the same period last year. Optima sales account for only about 8 percent of the brand’s total U.S. sales over the same. The 2011 European influenced Kia is expected to put Kia in the midsize game, competing against Camry, Accord, Malibu and its sibling, the Hyundai Sonata.