If you're a regular visitor to our blog, you're probably used to reading about all the good news from Kia. Like, earlier this year, the very first American-made Kia Optima rolled off the production line at the Kia Motors America (KMA) plant in Georgia. Or, that Kia has broken their sales records month-over-month for this entire year. And most recently, the redesigned 2011 Kia Optima was named "Most Gorgeous Car Under $20K" by men's lifestyle magazine Esquire.

As a finalist in Esquire's "2011 Design and Technology Awards," the Optima has been recognized for its stylishly simple design, giving the consumer a luxury experience without a luxury price tag. They said of the sedan, "A decade ago, a shape this clean and inspiring would've cost real money."¹ But what's "real money," anyway? With the Optima coming it at just under $20,000, it definitely won't break the budget.

This isn't the first time the Kia Optima has been applauded for its design, comfort and safety. Other Optima accolades include:

-        2011 "Editor's Most Wanted" vehicle, Edmunds Inside Line
-        2011 "Best New Model," Kiplinger's Personal Finance
-        Ward's 10 Best Interiors
-        2011 "Top Safety Pick," Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
-        5-Star crash test safety rating, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA)

We're sure to see the good news continue to roll in from the Korean automaker. Michael Sprague, Vice President, Marketing and Communications, KMA, says of the continued transformation of the company and their lineup, "The stunning design and value of the Optima has significantly increased awareness, perception and consideration for the Kia brand."2

Does this mean we'll be seeing more stunning vehicle redesigns and new releases in the future? Most likely. So stayed tuned with Paul Cerame Kia, located at 11655 New Halls Ferry Florissant, MO for the latest news and updates from Kia. In the meantime, if you have any questions about this or any other new Kia model, don't hesitate to contact us via our website or give us a call at (888) 495-7176.