The base Optima LX ($16,355) has a 162-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission. The Optima LX 5A ($17,650) upgrades to a five-speed automatic. The LX V6 ($19,345) upgrades to a 185-hp 2.7-liter V6.

LX models feature such niceties as a cabin air filter, power windows and locks, heated mirrors, tilt steering, and a 60/40 split, folding rear seat. The standard, steel wheels measure 16 inches in diameter. The LX automatic adds cruise control, keyless remote, floor mats and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel with audio controls. The LX V6 adds 16-inch alloy wheels. LX options are limited to a rear spoiler ($200) and an Appearance Package ($1000) that includes alloy wheels, blacked-out headlight backing and grille, aluminum interior trim, leather-wrapped steering wheel, trip computer, automatic headlights and fog lamps. The V6 Appearance Package ($800) adds 17-inch alloy wheels.

The Optima EX comes with either the four-cylinder ($19,395) or the V6 ($20,400), both with the five-speed automatic. Feature upgrades include automatic climate control, eight-way power driver seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, universal garage-door transmitter, an auto-dimming inside mirror and an Infinity stereo with external amplifier, subwoofer, MP3 and cassette functions and an in-dash, six-CD changer. EX options include an Appearance Package ($1500) that adds leather seats and a black interior trim. The Leather Package ($1300) includes the leather seats plus heated front seats, four-way power front passenger seat, power adjustable pedals and manual rear window shade. A power slide-and-tilt sunroof ($800) is available.

Safety features include dual front airbags, seat-mounted side-impact airbags for front occupants, curtain-style head protection airbags for all outboard seats and a tire pressure monitor. Electronic stability control, which can help the driver control the car in emergency maneuvers and bad weather, and antilock brakes, are optional.