Kia's entry in the luxury mid-sized sedan segment, the 2008 Kia Optima LX is the base trim for this front-wheel drive car. Under the hood rests a 2.4-liter, 162-hp DOHC I4 that achieves aroudn 24/34 mpg. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard, with the option to add a 5-speed automatic with Sport Shift. 16-inch wheels with all-season tires provide road grip. Safety equipment includes 4-wheel disc brakes, dual-stage front, side impact, and side curtain airbags for both rows, head restraints for the front seat, and a tire monitor. ABS brakes, and traction and stability control cost extra.

Well appointed for an economy luxury car, the 2008 Optima LX comes standard with power windows, locks, and mirrors. Heated mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering, intermittent wipers, a tachometer, two front power outlets, front and rear cupholders, and a 6-speaker CD system are also included. New this year is an MP3 audio input jack. When equipped with the automatic transmission, the 2008 Optima LX features remote entry and wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls.  Rear seats split-fold 60/40 and feature a trunk pass-through. The trunk holds 14.8 cubic feet of cargo and comes with a net and tie-downs. Available options include a rear spoiler, and an appearance package that adds 17-inch alloy wheels, black headlamp housing and a black grile, leather trim, a trip computer, and foglights.