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2008 Kia Optima Features Review

July 22, 2008

FEATURES | 7 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

high standard-feature content...lots of standard features
Car and Driver

can be equipped with some uncommon features for its class
Cars.com

well-equipped... above the basic transportation category
Kelley Blue Book

What the 2008 Kia Optima lacks in personality it makes up for in options.

Cars.com reports that the Kia Optima is "offered in LX and step-up EX trim levels." Car and Driver says the 2008 Kia Optima offers "high standard-feature content [and] lots of standard features." According to Cars.com, "air conditioning, power windows and locks, heated mirrors and a six-speaker CD stereo are standard." The base LX comes standard with cruise control, keyless entry and alarm, manual tilt and telescopic steering column, audio system controls on the steering wheel, and floor mats. The 2008 Kia Optima LX V-6 model adds dual exhaust outlets and alloy wheels.

Those who step up to the EX model will find that "leather upholstery is standard," says ConsumerGuide. Top-of-the-line 2008 Kia Optima EX models (four-cylinder and V-6 versions) feature alloy wheels, fog lights, solar glass, an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, automatic temperature control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a trip computer, metal door scuff plates, chrome-accent outside door handles, and an Infinity AM/FM/six-disc CD/MP3 premium audio system; the EX V-6 adds dual exhaust outlets. An iPod jack is new for the Optima's sound systems.

TheCarConnection.com notes that optional equipment for the 2008 Kia Optima is not in short supply. Options for this year's Kia Optima, according to ConsumerGuide, "include heated seats, sunroof, and power-adjustable pedals." Cars.com comments that the 2008 Kia Optima "can be equipped with some uncommon features for its class -- like a manual sunshade for the rear window...EX models add an eight-way power driver's seat, automatic climate control, a premium audio system and a leather-wrapped steering wheel."

The Optima lacks more modern options such as Bluetooth and a navigation system.

Conclusion

Buyers of the 2008 Kia Optima have many options available in terms of extras, but nothing to surprise shoppers or woo converts.

FEATURES | 7 out of 10Expert Quotes:high standard-feature content...lots of standard featuresCar and Drivercan be equipped with some uncommon features for its classCars.comwell-equipped... above the basic transportation categoryKelley Blue Book What the 2008 Kia Optima lacks in personality it makes up for in options. Cars.com reports that the Kia Optima is "offered in LX and step-up EX trim levels." Car and Driver says the 2008 Kia Optima offers "high standard-feature content [and] lots of standard features." According to Cars.com, "air conditioning, power windows and locks, heated mirrors and a six-speaker CD stereo are standard." The base LX comes standard with cruise control, keyless entry and alarm, manual tilt and telescopic steering column, audio system controls on the steering wheel, and floor mats. The 2008 Kia Optima LX V-6 model adds dual exhaust outlets and alloy wheels. Those who step up to the EX model will find that "leather upholstery is standard," says ConsumerGuide. Top-of-the-line 2008 Kia Optima EX models (four-cylinder and V-6 versions) feature alloy wheels, fog lights, solar glass, an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, automatic temperature control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a trip computer, metal door scuff plates, chrome-accent outside door handles, and an Infinity AM/FM/six-disc CD/MP3 premium audio system; the EX V-6 adds dual exhaust outlets. An iPod jack is new for the Optima's sound systems. TheCarConnection.com notes that optional equipment for the 2008 Kia Optima is not in short supply. Options for this year's Kia Optima, according to ConsumerGuide, "include heated seats, sunroof, and power-adjustable pedals." Cars.com comments that the 2008 Kia Optima "can be equipped with some uncommon features for its class -- like a manual sunshade for the rear window...EX models add an eight-way power driver's seat, automatic climate control, a premium audio system and a leather-wrapped steering wheel." The Optima lacks more modern options such as Bluetooth and a navigation system. ConclusionBuyers of the 2008 Kia Optima have many options available in terms of extras, but nothing to surprise shoppers or woo converts.  2008 KIA OPTIMA STYLING | [5 out of 10] Car and Driver: "John Doe looks? Check." Edmunds: "styling allows it to blend seamlessly into any automotive crowd" ConsumerGuide: "The leather upholstery lacks richness" Kelley Blue Book: "unobtrusively styled" The 2008 Kia Optima is a ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

With a base price that starts several thousands less than the (admittedly plusher and more refined) Camry and Accord, the 2008 Kia Optima appeals to a different sort of buyer, one who might be considering a smaller sedan or a slightly used mid-size sedan. However, the direct competition might include the Dodge Avenger, which offers a distinctly American design inside and out. The Avenger falls behind due to its coarse powertrain and chintzy interior materials. The Fusion also has standout styling but is much more fun to drive than the Optima, even as a base four-cylinder model, although its backseat is somewhat cramped. The new Malibu, though it costs only slightly more, feels in a class above, with a swoopy interior design, high-grade materials, and a very refined driving experience. But if price and features are the highest priority, the Optima wins.

Next Steps:

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See the Kia Optima in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001

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