Kia tends to cater to budget minded automotive consumers. Most of their vehicles are priced below the competition and are typically representative of a good value for your hard earned dollar. The 2008 Kia Optima sedan somewhat breaks the mold of typical economically equipped vehicles with increased feature content and sophisticated style, yet the base price remains under $17,000 and includes a 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty.

The 2008 Kia Optima is available in two levels. The LX midsize sedan comes standard with 16 inch steel wheels and the other basic amenities. The LX adds keyless, cruise, and a raft of steering wheel upgrades. The LX esthetics option package gives bigger alloy wheels, leather trim, and enhanced exterior packaging.

The Optima EX adds the HomeLink technology system, leather seats, and temperature-sensing climate control. The EX option packages can offer a sunroof and premium audio system.

The standard 2008 Kia Optima engine is a viable 162 horsepower, 2.4 liter 4 cylinder mated to a 5 speed manual gearbox. A 5 speed automatic transmission is optional for both the LX and EX. Also optional for both trims is an optional 2.7 liter V6 that delivers an uninspiring 185 horsepower paired with a 5 speed automatic transmission. Although neither engine is especially speedy, the V6 will go from 0 to 60 in just over 9 seconds. EPA estimates are average for a 5 passenger economy sedan equipped with a 4 cylinder engine at 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the V6 gets 20 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway.

The 2008 Kia Optima is a good overall value with many standard safety features, however ABS and traction control are optional- but well worth the investment.