2007 Motor Trend Car of the Year: Testing and Finalists
Even against a more-than-competitive field, this player proved a standout from Day One of the program.
More than one of our editors asked if our four-cylinder-equipped Optima test unit was a V-6 model. This makes more sense when you look at the numbers. The Optima's standard 2.4-liter I-4 puts out 161 horsepower, competitive for the segment. Its optional 2.7-liter V-6 is good for 185, not as competitive among midsize V-6 sedans. That's two cylinders, just 0.3 liter, and a measly 24 horsepower separating the two engines. This four-banger offers nearly comparable power for less money and with much better fuel economy. It's not as smooth nor sweet as the Accord's I-4, but gets the job done with zing.
Both engines are mated to nicely geared five-speed automatics; a five-speed manual can be had only with the four. We also were impressed with the Optima's handling, delivered by a well-pinned chassis. There's a nice yin and yang balance between supple ride quality and sporty handling that doesn't fall all over itself when pushed.
The Optima drew compliments for a well-tailored exterior and an easy-to-live-with cabin. "Great interior," writes one staffer. "Kia can do black without making it too monotone." Says another, "A serious competitor to Camry at the low end of the market (four-cylinder), but not enough at the top [small V-6 and no Hybrid] to move past Toyota or to be our winner." Still, we were impressed with the Kia's long list of standard safety features, like ABS and a full complement of airbags, which help it achieve top scores from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety in front and rear impact testing. Don't forget Kia's outstanding warranty. This brand's products have come a long way in a short time, and its competitors need to pay attention.
| 2007 Kia Optima |
| Base price range | $15,955-$21,000 |
| Price as tested | $22,895 (EX) |
| Vehicle layout | Front engine, FWD, 5-pass, 4-door sedan |
| Engine | 2.4L/161-hp/163-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve 4-cyl I-4 |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Curb weight (f/r dist) | 3304 lb (61/39%) |
| Wheelbase | 107.1 in |
| Length x width x height | 186.4 x 71.1 x 58.3 in |
| 0-60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Quarter mile | 16.9 sec @ 82.4 mph |
| Braking, 60-0 mph | 123 ft |
| 600-foot slalom | 62.3 mph, avg |
| Lateral acceleration | 0.77 g, avg |
| MT Figure eight | 28.6 sec @ 0.56 g, avg |
| EPA city/hwy fuel econ | 24/34 mpg |
| Sum Up | No one on our staff will be surprised when Kia finally does grab the trophy. |
| Bet you didn't know | Hyundai-Kia is working on a hybrid powertrain for the Optima that may appear for the 2010 model year. |
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