MotorMouths

The 2011 Kia Optima is can stand against Asia and America’s best in the areas of styling, performance, and features. It’s certainly the best Kia sedan so far.

There are fleeter and more-fun cars than the Optima Hybrid. Other hybrid systems are more transparent. Some cars have more conveniences, only nowhere near this price. But no family sedan gathers up value, looks and efficiency quite like it.

The Optima was built to out-do its competitors when it comes to sensible family-sedan characteristics, making it a car you should buy. And by packaging it in dramatic sheetmetal it’s also something you’ll want to own.

Kia’s DNA has always been to surprise, to give customers far more car than they expected to get at a price far lower than they expected to pay. The Optima SX T-GDI, loaded with practically every amenity and technology available in more expensive sedans, it is doing that.

The exuberant and pretty 2012 Kia Optima SX is sure to give serious heartburn to its competitors. Why? Because it does things better than those cars, it’s less expensive and it’s much better-looking.

The 2013 Kia Optima is one of our top picks for a midsize sedan. With evocative styling, strong engine choices and a long list of features, it’s easy to see why.

The redesigned 2011 Kia Optima aims to deliver upscale accoutrements and a sporty, driver-oriented demeanor at bargain prices, and it mostly succeeds.

The Optima is a tremendous value, and a formidable mid-size competitor. The styling and execution of the 2011 Optima will help the Kia nameplate rise to a respected brand.

Kia has taken some cues from industry leaders, added some real innovation and ended up with something special. For now, at least, the 2011 Kia Optima Turbo might be — all things considered — the best high-powered family sedan you can buy.

The Kia Optima got all the space and practicality I expect from a mid-sizer, with good power, great fuel economy, attractive styling and an even more attractive price tag. All in all, this is a truly outstanding car.

Nobody remembers the 2010 Kia Optima, but just like that, the 2011 model may be the mainstream sedan to beat. While some consumers – the uninformed and brand-bigoted – might remain skeptical, the 2011 Kia Optima is the new benchmark.

With evocative styling, a long list of standard and optional features, all-around comfort and just enough performance to get the blood pumping, the new Optima Turbo rises to the top of our list of preferred family sedans.