2011 Kia Optima Gets Five-Star NHTSA Rating

After receiving the “Top Safety Pick” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2011 Kia Optima continues to scoop similar recognitions. Most recently, the midsize sedan has received an overall five-star crash safety rating, after receiving top scores in each of the overall ratings categories in the latest crash tests conducted by the U.S. Department of Transportation's NHTSA.

The 2011 Optima comes equipped with various standard safety features, including six airbags (dual advanced front and front-seat mounted side as well as full-length side curtain), front active headrests, side-impact door beams, height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Four-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), ESC, a Traction Control System (TCS), a Brake Assist System (BAS) and Hill Assist Control (HAC) also are standard.

"As the most recent addition to Kia's lineup, the 2011 Optima incorporates some of Kia's most advanced safety technologies with head-turning style, performance and comfort to provide consumers with high value and peace-of-mind," said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of Kia Motors America (KMA) and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG).  "As the first Korean-built vehicle to be awarded a five-star crash safety rating under NHTSA's new, stricter guidelines, Optima creates a new benchmark in the segment and underscores Kia's commitment to offering consumers the highest levels of quality and safety in all of our vehicles."

Pricing for the 2011 Kia Optima midsize sedan begins at $18,995. The car is available in three trims levels (LX, EX and SX) and three engine variants (a 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter GDI turbo or a 2.4-liter hybrid).