A COMFORTABLE AND SOFT RIDE (TOO SOFT)

Behind the wheel of the new Optima it’s easy to point out several more faults – although there are certainly some positive aspects to the driving experience as well.

On the down-size, the car rides far too loosely on its suspension. It bobs and sways and when you put your foot into it and change lanes on the highway the steering becomes vague as the sedan rolls back on its suspension.

    See also:

    Tire specification and pressure label
    The tires supplied on your new vehicle are chosen to provide the best performance for normal driving. The tire label located on the driver's side center pillar gives the tire pressures recommend ...

    Efficient, Powerful Engine
    Available in two powerplants - a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 2.7-liter V6 engine - and two five-speed transmissions (manual with LX four-cylinder model only), the 2009 Kia Optima introduces a new ...

    Manual Transaxle
    Manual transaxle operation The manual transaxle has 6 forward gears. This shift pattern is imprinted on the shift knob. The transaxle is fully synchronized in all forward gears so shifting to e ...