2011 Kia Optima Priced Lower Than Hyundai Sonata
The 2011 Kia Optima comes in for as little as $19,690, $225 cheaper than the entry-level Hyundai Sonata.
A great bargain, since the new Optima is essentially a Sonata with different skin, the same engine, and a marginally sportier driving experience.
The entry Optima LX has the same six-speed manual transmission and 2.4-liter engine as the base Sonata. Comes standard with: audio system with USB, auxiliary, Bluetooth connections, plus satellite radio; power windows and locks; dual, chrome-tipped exhaust finishers; a cooled glove box; 16-inch steel wheels; and six airbags.
Throwing in a six-speed automatic transmission costs $21,190, and adds 16-inch alloy wheels and cruise control to the equipment list.
The next step up is the $23,190 EX trim, yielding 17-inch wheels, fog lights, leather seats with eight-way power adjustments for the driver, climate control, and keyless ignition.
As well as its Sonata sibling, the Optima LX undercuts competitors from Japan and the U.S. The cheapest Honda Accord sedan (like the Optima, it has a four-cylinder engine and manual) requires $21,930, while the entry-level Chevrolet Malibu (six-speed automatic only) rings in at $22,695.
The Optima is another much-improved Kia product that just so happens to be the cheapest in its segment.
My Recommendation for Car Shoppers
TrueCar, Edmunds, and 1-800 Car Show are the quickest way to see the lowest car prices in your area. These sites show you no-haggle prices from dealers closest to you - and the deals are usually really good. This should be the first step you take when negotiating your car price. Follow this up with my checklist to make sure you squeeze out every last bit of savings.California Residents - Important:
There is a new online car buying service called Roadster, available only to California residents, which I highly recommend you try - especially if you hate the stress of haggling with a car salesman. They provide an expert concierge who negotiates the price of the car and delivers it to your home with zero hassle - you never have to interact with a dealership. Here is my in-depth review of Roadster and why I recommend it.- Gregg Fidan
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About: Gregg Fidan
Gregg Fidan + is the founder of RealCarTips. After being ripped off on his first car purchase, he devoted several years to figuring out the best ways to avoid scams and negotiate the best car deals. He has written hundreds of articles on the subject of car buying and taught thousands of car shoppers how to get the best deals.
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