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2011 Kia Optima EX: dare we say the Camry-killer?

The larger, more powerful 2011 Kia Optima EX has grown into a serious challenger in the midsize sedan market with a high level of cabin appointments at a relatively low price.

Antuan Goodwin Reviews Editor / Cars
Antuan Goodwin gained his automotive knowledge the old fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. From drivetrain tech and electrification to car audio installs and cabin tech, if it's on wheels, Antuan is knowledgeable.
Expertise Reviewing cars and car technology since 2008 focusing on electrification, driver assistance and infotainment Credentials
  • North American Car, Truck and SUV of the Year (NACTOY) Awards Juror
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Antuan Goodwin
Josh Miller/CNET

Kia's Optima has grown substantially since its last generation, both physically and in terms of design.
Kia's Optima has grown substantially since its last generation, both physically and in terms of design. Josh Miller/CNET

It's no secret that Kia and its parent company, Hyundai, have been making almost quantum leaps in the quality of their vehicles in the last generation or two. Comparing, for example, the 2011 Kia Optima to its 2010 iteration is almost like comparing apples to oranges. The new model is larger in nearly every dimension, but thanks to its sportier proportions, it looks much more menacing than its pudgy predecessor. While both examples offer 2.4-liter engines, the 2011 Optima's gasoline direct-injection system gives it a 24-horsepower advantage while also gaining 2 mpg in both city and highway driving over the outgoing model.

USB connectivity is standard, but iPod connection requires a $35 cable.
USB connectivity and Bluetooth are standard, but iPod connection requires a $35 cable. Josh Miller/CNET

The 2011 Optima finds itself outgrowing its low-cost alternative category and into direct competition with the likes of the Toyota Camry. What's most interesting about this metamorphosis is that the upstart Optima is actually looking pretty good when compared with the best-selling midsize sedan in America (according to Forbes), with performance that matches or beats the standard set by the Japanese incumbents and standard features like Bluetooth calling and audio streaming and USB/iPod connectivity stretching all the way down to the entry level.

Check out the full review of the 2011 Kia Optima EX for more details, photos, and video.