Overall, against a comparably outfitted and priced Malibu, Fusion, Accord or Camry, the newest Optima is competitive in terms of ride and handling and comfort. Accord and Camry models at the higher end of those lines surpass the Optima in suppressing and filtering wind and road noise, but only barely, and, for the most part, in ride and handling as well

The first Optima made a statement: Kia wants to be a contender. The second-generation Optima, this one, delivers. Although its engines are not the most powerful in the segment, in other important ways, the Optima is every bit as good as any equally equipped, direct competitor. It's as solid, as comfortable, as quiet, as well built, and as economical. Especially that last one, the major measure: price. What a deal.

NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Tom Lankard filed this report from Yountville, California.

Model Line Overview

Model lineup:Kia Optima LX 5M ($16,355); LX 5A ($17,650); LX 5A V6 ($19,345); EX ($19,395); EX V6 ($20,400)

Engines:161-hp 2.4-liter inline-4; 185-hp 2.7-liter V6

Transmissions:5-speed manual; 5-speed automatic

Safety equipment (standard):front airbags; front seat-mounted, side airbags; full-coverage, side-curtain airbags; front-seat, active head restraints; rear-seat, child safety seat anchors (LATCH); tire pressure monitor

Safety equipment (optional):Electronic Stability Package with electronic stability control, traction control and brake assist; antilock brakes

Basic warranty:5 years/60,000 miles

Assembled in:Hwasung, South Korea