Impressive Warranty

Hyundai is Kia's corporate parent, so the Optima gets Hyundai's impressive warranty; it includes 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain protection and 5-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance.

Kia is putting more marketing muscle behind the new Optima. Its predecessor received little marketing support, and most folks wanting a Kia sedan brushed past it in showrooms and headed for the automaker's Spectra model.

The front-wheel-drive Optima has quick steering and a decent ride, but the softness of an older Buick and thus just average handling. The brake pedal has a linear action to help provide smooth stops.

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    Overloading
    CAUTION - Vehicle weight The gross axle weight rating (GAWR) and the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for your vehicle are on the manufacturer's label attached to the driver's door. Exceeding ...

    Engine oil
    Checking the engine oil level 1. Be sure the vehicle is on level ground. 2. Start the engine and allow it to reach normal operating temperature. 3. Turn the engine off and wait for a few minute ...

    Towing
    Towing service If emergency towing is necessary, we recommend having it done by an authorized KIA dealer or a commercial towtruck service. Proper lifting and towing procedures are necessary to ...