

10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
#2002 KIA MODELS DRIVER#
#2002 KIA MODELS ANDROID#
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.Got an open mind? Want to drive something a little different? Go test-drive an Optima. We could do without some of the Optima's body roll during cornering, but this behavior is to be expected from a non-sporting sedan with a softly tuned suspension.Ĭompany officials readily admit that the Optima isn't going to steal any sales records from the leaders in this class, but the Kia's solid build quality, exceptional fit-and-finish, excellent standard suspension system, jackpot of features and low price could make it a welcome addition to families on a budget. Its fuel economy is 19 mpg city and 25 highway.Īll Optimas are fitted with four-wheel independent suspension, front and rear anti-roll bars, and rack-and-pinion steering with power assist, which combine to provide a responsive, supple and comfortable ride, especially on the highway. The V6 model is offered only with an automatic transmission, but it does come with a Porsche-designed Tiptronic automanual shifter to allow up- and downshifts without a clutch.

The upgraded 2.7-liter DOHC V6 engine now delivers 178 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque this still isn't best in class but should be fully adequate for most buyers.
#2002 KIA MODELS MANUAL#
The Optima's standard 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine with five-speed manual transmission pumps out a credible 149 horsepower and boasts fuel economy of 21 mpg city and 28 highway (20/27 with the four-speed automatic). Four-wheel disc brakes are also exclusive to the six-cylinders, but at least you don't have to pay extra for them. One possible annoyance for buyers is the limited availability of ABS - if you want it, you have to get one of the V6 models and buy it as an option. Additionally, SE models are eligible for the optional Leather Package, which includes leather seating surfaces and a four-way power passenger seat. Should you opt for the LX V6, Kia will throw in the alloy wheels and cruise control the latter is available as an option for base LX models. The SE trim adds alloy wheels, heated exterior mirrors, a power antenna, auto-on/off headlights, foglamps, moonroof, remote keyless entry and alarm, cruise control, a 120-watt audio system with CD (optional for the LX), wood trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and an eight-way power driver seat. The base four-cylinder Optima LX starts at just over $15,000 (with destination charge) and includes front and side airbags air conditioning power windows, door locks and mirrors a first aid kit variable intermittent wipers a cassette player and 15-inch wheels - an impressive array of features in this price range. So how can an underdog like the Optima stick around until dessert is served? By finding buyers who would rather drive a generously equipped Kia than a stripped-down Toyota. And what's this? Nissan's Altima and Toyota's Camry are riding high on wildly successful 2002 redesigns. Unfortunately, the VIPs in this class - Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Ford and Chrysler - had already taken the best seats. But with the introduction of the midsize Optima in late 2000, it was clear that the Korean automaker desired a place at the ever-lucrative family sedan table.

Kia has the bottom of the car market cornered - its Rio sedan is the nation's cheapest car, and its competitively priced Spectra offers a fresh-smelling alternative to those who might otherwise settle for a used Japanese compact.
