Kia’s redesign of the Optima for 2011 has turned the rather boring mid-size sedan into a car that is a leader in its class.

Joining the Kia line-up 10 years ago, the new Optima looks a bit more European with its sport sedan stance. The new sleek design is longer, wider and lower than the previous model. Fortunately, it’s not just the looks that have made the sedan sporty. The 2.4-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine offers 200 hp, which is equivalent to some turbocharged engines. And impressively, this powerful engine delivers a quick response economically – it comes with stellar EPA ratings of up to 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.

Inside, the Optima gets more of a sport-sedan look, with the instrument panel forming an easily visible and operational cockpit arranged toward the driver. Comfort of the seating is the only drawback I found in the vehicle. The front seats lack padding and contouring compared to other vehicles in this class. Optional heated and cooled front seats as well as heated back seats help make up for the rather hard seating surface. Interior space is ample for five adults to ride comfortably.

The front grille of the Optima is downright happy and how could you not like a car that smiles at you? The aggressive stance of the vehicle comes complete with chrome tipped dual exhausts and chrome wheels.

The 2011 Kia Optima is offered in three trims: LX, EX and SX. The long list of standard equipment offered is similar to that available on many luxury vehicles. A 2.0–liter turbocharged engine and an Optima Hybrid will also hit the market this year.

The Optima EX that I tested included the Technology Package with navigation system and the best back-up camera I have seen. The camera made visibility extremely clear, covering a wide range immediately behind the back bumper to at least 50 feet behind the vehicle. An audio system with eight speakers is also part of that package. The EX Premium Package contained the heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, panoramic sunroof, power front passenger seat, driver seat memory and a heated steering wheel. I especially enjoyed the heated steering wheel since spring forgot to come to the Northwest this year!

When you add in Kia’s long warranty coverage, the Optima is an incredible value for an extraordinary mid-size sedan.

Longtime Kirkland resident, Sally Hanson has been reviewing automobiles for 25 years. She is the scholarship chair of the Northwest Automotive Press Association.