Kia Optima

The midsized Optima is essentially a Hyundai Sonata with less-adventurous styling and a generous helping of exterior chrome. Like the Sonata, it is available in two trim levels and with a choice of two engines: a 2.4-liter, 149-hp Four or a 2.7-liter, 181-hp V6. V6 models are only available with an automatic transmission. Four-cylinder models come reasonably well equipped, though antilock brakes aren't offered. As in the Sonata, the interior is fairly spacious and quiet, and the V6 powertrain reasonably refined.