The 2009 Kia Optima has been slightly redone in an effort to improve upon last year's model. The Optima is a mid-size sedan whose main competition includes the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The redesign was in an effort to keep up with these two wildly popular cars and only time will tell if Kia will be successful in that endeavor. Once again, the 2009 Optima is available in three different trim levels, the LX, EX, and SX, which is the sport model.

The biggest changes on the 2009 Optima are in the exterior design, especially the front end. If the tail was reworked, it was not enough to merit a mention. The grille and headlights have been the focus of the upgrade. However, for some reason, the face of this car is now slightly reminiscent of each of its chief competitors. The reshaped face also adds a few inches to the overall length. 16" wheels are standard on each of the first two trim levels. They jump up to 17" on the sporty SX model.

The 2009 Optima will be powered by either a 2.4L 4 cylinder, or a 2.7L V6, and both have been given more horsepower than they had during 2008. A five speed manual transmission is standard with the 4 cylinder, although you can upgrade to an automatic as an option. The V6 will be coupled with the five-speed automatic. Depending on which trim level you choose, fuel mileage should be between 21 and 30 mpg.

Kia didn't mess with the interior design as much as they did the outside. The only upgrades were added connectivity options for ease of MP3 players and such, and a slightly redesigned instrument panel. However, Kia now also offers a navigation system on the Optima as an option. Unfortunately, if you want more than just the most basic safety features, you'll have to upgrade to an option package that includes an electronic stability system and traction control. Several of the Optima's leading competitors already offer these things as standard equipment.

One thing that the 2009 Kia Optima has going for it is its relatively affordable price. The base model will start at $17,000 and go up as you add options. The Optima is a nice enough car that delivers quality and reliability, but it may be doomed to playing catch up simply because of the well established popularity of its competitors. The competition has been around a lot longer, and has established reputations that people have come to count on so Kia will have a long road ahead of them to establish a loyal client base.