Car and Driver reports, “Perhaps lost in some of the hubbub of the New York Auto Show was the 2009 refresh of Kia’s mid-size Optima sedan.”  The 2009 Optima features “Honda Accord­–like styling in the front, with narrowed headlamps, a trapezoidal grille, and larger fog lamps. The side sills and rear fascias have also been revised to provide, Kia says, a sportier look for its four-door family hauler.” 

The Car Connection adds, “Inside, Optima gets an upgraded audio system, for 2009, including a new USB port, and standard Sirius Satellite Radio.”  Interior options will include “sports seats and alloy pedals.”

Motor Trend adds, “The four cylinder engine makes 175 horsepower, up 13 from last year's model and is actually in the same league as its competition.”  The optional V6 produces “just 190 horsepower, though,” so “the 2.4-liter four is probably the better option.”

Edmunds Inside Line comments that, even after the refresh, the Optima is “still one of the blander family sedans in the midsize segment.”

Research the Optima, and its competition, with U.S. News’ rankings and reviews of affordable midsize cars.

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