2012 Kia Optima SX Turbo Review

Korea is quickly gaining prominence on the automotive map thanks to the high quality output of Seoul-based badges Kia and Hyundai. With the 2012 Optima SX Turbo, Kia continues to prove its place in the global auto market, showcasing an intuitive ability to meet the practical needs of drivers without sacrificing the fun, sporty ethos that has become the brand's hallmark.

Featuring a handsome exterior design, a luxuriously-equipped cabin and a fuel-efficient turbocharged engine, the new Kia Optima SX Turbo provides impressive value. While the Optima would work great for families or as a daily commuter, its sport-tuned suspension and quick inline-4 prove that the elegant midsize sedan isn't all about business. Boasting an athletic 274 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, the Optima SX Turbo produces V6-like performance with the fuel economy of a 4-cylinder thanks to the smart addition of a turbocharger. Back roads racers can further enhance their driving experience with the Optima's steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, which act as a nice complement to the smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.

Driving ease is further aided through a host of thoughtfully-designed amenities that grace the interior cabin of the Optima. Standard Bluetooth and satellite radio keep drivers connected on their morning commute, while the optional Technology package adds an easy-to-use navigation system with a rearview camera and Sirius traffic. And although the best seat in the Optima belongs to the driver, passengers are also kept content with spacious rear seating and a powerful six-speaker CD/MP3 audio system. It looks as though we have found one Korean export that we can all agree on in the 2012 Kia Optima SX Turbo.

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Watch a video of the 2012 Kia Optima SX Turbo