2010 Kia Optima vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

Sheer value for the money is one of the leading reasons to opt for the 2010 Kia Optima.

In base form, it costs thousands less than comparably equipped Camry or Accord models.

But the Optima competes more readily with several vehicles that are either on the small side of mid-size or sold on value and affordability.

The all-new Suzuki Kizashi is a near-polar opposite of the Optima in driving feel, tuned to come across as very responsive with an emphasis on handling.

The Kizashi is slightly smaller, but like the Optima, the Kizashi comes very well equipped.

The Dodge Avenger flaunts a distinctly American design inside and out but fails to wow because of a coarse powertrain and chintzy interior (which has been slightly improved for 2010).

Ford’s Fusion is one of the better offerings in this class; it doesn’t provide the level of equipment featured in the Optima, but it’s fun to drive and well built, with an interior that doesn’t at all feel done on a tight budget.

Yet another model to consider is the Hyundai Sonata; from Kia’s sibling brand (the two are both from the same South Korean company) but unrelated mechanically, the Sonata feels more luxurious and comfort-oriented, and it boasts a stronger available V-6 that makes it a better pick if you’re opting for the larger engine.