2004 Kia Optima
When Kia Automobiles first made their American debut, they were met with jeers and poor reviews. The first year’s models were known to have significant defects, not all of which were cosmetic. Things that people would expect to work, like windshield wipers, sometimes didn’t work on a new car. But times changed. Kia Automobiles refined their craft, and years later, they were able to put together some fine vehicles.
The 2004 Kia Optima is one of these vehicles, likely to surprise those who have never driven a Kia before, and completely shock those who had driven a Kia several years before. Not only is this sedan surprisingly stylish and powerful, but it seems to be relatively problem free.
In regards to the style, the Kia Optima rides the line between the old box style cars and the new bubble shaped cars that look more like a child’s toy than an automobile. It would be a stretch to compare the look to that of a Jaguar, but the pleasing aspects of those British luxury cars are the same aspects that are pleasing about the Kia Optima.
The power is probably the most surprising aspect of this car. The engine is a V6, which can be shocking to those who are expecting a V4, or are used to that less powerful engine type. It is not the type of power that is tough to control, but enough that it makes this car a lot of fun to drive. For those who prefer to drive automatics, this power is toned down a little, not so much by the engine, but by the transmission. There is not anything specifically wrong with it, and those who drive carefully and accelerate slowly will never notice the flaw. Those who like to accelerate quickly, particularly from a stopped position will notice a delay between the aggressive press of the gas pedal, and the actual acceleration.
This car also comes with all of the options one would hope to have available. This includes power locks, power windows, power steering, (that’s a given) CD player and more.
All in all, this is a nice car for one that is not terribly expensive. It is not in that lowest tier of automobile, and yet, it would be difficult to classify it as a luxury automobile.
