Kia'S SX Limited Model Has Near-Luxury Image Without The Overhead

The Kia Optima is a long and lean midsize sedan that brought more affluent customers to the brand.

And of the 11 vehicles in the lineup, the Optima is now Kia's best-selling car, with the Sorento crossover close behind. That's a growth statement from this Korean carmaker that built a foundation on scrappy economy cars.

For 2013, Kia builds on Optima's popularity and adds a more luxurious trim level, the SX Limited (SXL). Based on the top-line SX, the Limited has a starting price of $27,575, including the $775 freight charge from Korea. And to make it a Limited requires the Touring package ($2,950), the Technology package ($1,400) and the Limited package ($3,350). All totaled, the final price comes to $35,275.

Unique features include 18-inch chrome wheels showcased by red brake calipers, LED daytime running lights, more chrome, a black cloth headliner and Nappa leather upholstery, an electric parking brake and a first aid kit.

The Touring package adds such extras as a panoramic sunroof, eight-speaker Infinity audio system, rearview camera, power front passenger seat (but still without height adjustment), heated and cooled front seats and heated rear seats (at the windows). The Tech package adds a navigation system.

The basic bones of the Optima SX are a 274-horsepower, 2.0-liter, direct-injection four-cylinder and six-speed Sportmatic transmission, which return fuel economy of 22 mpg city and 34 highway on regular unleaded.

The Optima is lively to drive with brisk acceleration and an athletic suspension, but not too hard. It is nimble in tight quarters with an equally tight 35.8-foot turning circle.

Nappa leather is softer and has a more "premium" feel, Kia says. And there have been notable other interior enhancements, including padding on the front door armrests. It is a comfortable long-distance cruiser with supportive seats and room to spread out, but at $35,000 it is an omission that the passenger seat does not have height adjustment.

The SXL has the look and feel of luxury without the price. And the buyer drives off in a contemporary sedan that looks special and overdelivers on features.

Courtesy of San Diego Union Tribune