Kia Optima

Bigger and better than ever before, the 2007 Kia Optima is finally good enough to compete on level ground against the likes of the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and other mid-sized sedans. The Optima’s standard engine is a 2.4-liter four-banger that produces 161 horsepower, mated to either a five-speed manual or an automatic transmission. There’s also a 2.8-liter V6, which generates 185 horsepower, but it’s outmatched by most of the competition. The new Optima looks great, inside and out, and offers a terrific blend of ride quality and handling. However, to be truly competitive with the best in the class, it needs a stronger V6 under the hood.