EPA Estimates Put 2011 Kia Optima at Top of Mid-size MPG List
EPA estimates suggest the all-new 2011 Kia Optima delivers 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. These numbers place the Optima at the top of the list when it comes to fuel-efficient non-hybrid mid-size cars (note: the 2011 Hyundai Sonata ties for first with identical fuel ratings). Learn what's new on the 2011 Optima and review features, specifications and complete mileage ratings.
What's New - 2011 Kia Optima
A complete redesign delivers a Kia Optima that is considerably more style-oriented. Larger dimensions improve interior passenger comfort and major upgrades to interior design help make the vehicle more relevant in the competitive mid-size class. With most reviewers citing major improvements in virtually every category, many are now saying the Optima is a solid alternative to top class competitors.
New 2011 Kia Optima Styling
With its sloping roofline and crisp corners, the 2011 Optima is reminiscent of a four-door coupe. Unique front-end accents and angular rear headlights further cement the vehicle as one of the sportier-looking options in the mid-size class.
Inside, the Optima delivers competitive fit-and-finish. It also boasts a new dashboard that is designed to boost driving ergonomics (controls angle 10-degrees toward the driver). Both front and rear seating offer solid comfort and good real estate. A long list of standard safety features also helps boost the high-tech cred of this redesigned Kia sedan.
New 2011 Kia Optima Performance
Mechanically, the Kia Optima incorporates the same powertrains that are available in the 2011 Hyundai Sonata. The base engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that musters an even 200 horsepower. Outfitted with a manual transmission, this setup is good for 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway (28 mpg combined). Opt for the 6-speed automatic transmission, and city mileage drops to 22 mpg.
For the adrenaline junkies out there, the Optima also comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that zips along at 274 horsepower. Despite the boost in power, fuel efficiency isn't compromised all that much. Estimates suggest fuel ratings of 22 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
A hybrid version of the Kia Optima is also expected later in the year. Early estimates indicate that the electric-gas engine will deliver 37 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
Review full 2011 Kia Optima specifications.
New 2011 Kia Optima Safety
Standard safety features for the 2011 Optima include anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control and six airbags. Neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has yet performed crash tests on the new Optima.
New 2011 Kia Optima Prices and Features
Base price for the 2011 Kia Optima is set at $18,195. This makes it one of the most affordable mid-size sedans for the year. Despite this fact, the Optima comes standard with a solid mix of standard features that include full power accessories, Bluetooth, satellite radio, USB connectivity, auxiliary input, dual exhaust and side-mirror integrated turn signals. Upgrading to the Optima EX adds larger wheels, fog lights, chrome accents, push-button ignition, dual-zone climate control, rearview camera and Uvo voice-activated vehicle control system (similar to Ford's SYNC).
The top-of-the-line Kia Optima SX includes HID headlights, LED taillights, LCD info screen, leather seats and a number of sport-enhanced cosmetics. Asking price for SX models should come in around $23,000.
Find a 2011 Kia dealer near you.