Optima LX with the base 149-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine lists for a remarkable $14,899; that's less than last year. It comes complete with air conditioning, rear defroster, AM/FM stereo cassette, power windows, mirrors and locks and front-seat side airbags.

Specifying the 2.7-liter V6 adds 29 horsepower and a refined four-speed automatic transmission along with 15-inch alloy wheels with P205/60HR15 Michelin tires, four-wheel disc brakes, and cruise control. However the price for the Optima LX V6 goes to $17,499.

That's more than the Optima SE with the 4-cylinder, listing for $16,549 and coming complete with the larger alloy wheels and tires, heated mirrors, premium 120-watt audio system with cassette, CD and a power antenna, an upgraded center console, real wood trim accents, interior and exterior chrome door handles and chrome insert bodyside molding, and a moonroof.

Going whole hog with the SE V6 sets the buyer back $18,849 and includes everything in the SE and V6 packages. That price, incidentally, is more than $1,000 less than last year. Adding antilock brakes, offered only with the V6 costs $795, and the leather package, an SE-only option, is $995. Floor mats, for any models, cost an extra $80, and the destination charge is $495.

Kia's 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty and 5-year/60,000 mile basic warranty are included, as is a 5-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance plan.