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2004 Kia Optima Mid-Size Sedan

New Car Review of the 2004 Kia Optima Mid-Size.

Description: Misize Sedan
Base MSRP Range: $15,500 - $19,495
Invoice Price Range: $14,370 - $17,755

A new horizontal-skewed grille marks the prow of Kia's mid-size sedan. This car appears stylish, stocks comfy seats in a cabin that's as spacious as best-selling mid-size sedans, then brings two engine choices including a V6 teamed to a select-shift automatic.

Optima's structural and mechanical elements -- platform, suspension system and engines -- come out of the Sonata sedan by Hyundai, Kia's parent. Although the two cars share these essential components, each appears distinctly different, with Optima draped in a conservative exterior design and the cabin containing equipment unique to Kia.

The SE trim designation changes in 2004 to EX in order to conform with trim levels for other Kia products. All editions contain standard equipment such as air conditioning, a stereo sound system with six speakers, and power controls for windows, locks and mirrors.

Optima LX gets a four-cylinder engine and a four-speed automatic with optional Sportmatic mode for clutch-less shift control. Optima LX V6 and EX V6 use a 2.7-liter aluminum V6 that makes 178 hp through the automatic with Sportmatic shifting. New 16-inch alloy wheels for LX V6 and EX V6 carry 205/55R16 Michelin tires.