2011 Kia Optima Priced Lower Than 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.
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The key to getting the best deal is to gather price or lease bids from as many local dealers as possible. Then shop that best price around until no one can beat it. Here are the steps:Step 1 Get Prices From My Trusted Network
Select the vehicle you're interested in to see if there are local dealers in my network who will provide you with their best upfront price. You will get direct access to an internet sales manager who you can further negotiate with online (no need to visit dealership).Step 2 Get Prices From TrueCar / CarsDirect
TrueCar, and CarsDirect are my top 2 online price quote recommendations. These services show you pre-negotiated prices from dealers closest to you - and the deals are usually pretty decent. But remember, you can still negotiate further.Step 3 Complete my Checklist
Follow this up with my checklist to make sure you squeeze out every last bit of savings.- Gregg Fidan

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