AWESOME or AWFUL: Does The Kia Optima Look Stylin' With Upgraded Rims?

Now when the Kia Optima made its first appearance, I don't think many people could really refute its styling. Hell, it was easily one of the top cars at last year's New York Auto Show. Sure you can always say "It's just a Kia," but we're willing to wager you will not find a better looking car in the low $20,000 price mark.

Although it hails from Korea, the all-new Optima has plenty of European design cues that presents an interesting mix. It definitely presents itself with some pizazz and looks more expensive than your run-of-the-mill Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and all-new Volkswagen Passat, which many critics find devoid of character.

When you look at this image with the rims, keep in mind we're not saying THESE particular rims fit the car; however, use your imagination a little bit. Think how the Optima would look with a thick, five-spoke 19-inch wheel OR another set of aftermarket wheels.

Are you seeing it or not?


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MBCLS07 - 3/9/2011 5:14:22 PM

+8 Boost

The Optima is an attractive car, but aftermarket wheels like these just cheapen the look. If too many Optima owners follow suit, it's reputation will suffer like that of the Chrysler 300—a car which could've been perceived as an affordable, classy luxury car, but is instead viewed as the official vehicle of low-rent wannabe ballers.

Agent00R - 3/9/2011 5:31:17 PM

-6 Boost

@MBCLS07

Good point, however, if this car was outfitted with a proper set of rims, I think you'd say otherwise.

richard112360 - 3/9/2011 6:03:15 PM

+6 Boost

"The Optima is an attractive car, but aftermarket wheels like these just cheapen the look."

Same could be said of all the other car makes, MB, BMW, Lexus, Jaguar, Infinity etc.

irishmike - 3/9/2011 6:14:27 PM

+1 Boost

A lot of cars are modified by owners with no taste. I don't have any problem recognizing what lies beneath.
I don't know that I would buy a Kia or a Hyundai, but I have a new found respect for each.

delan - 3/10/2011 2:22:35 AM

0 Boost

Detroit = ghetto?

bmwdrvr - 3/10/2011 9:55:57 AM

+2 Boost

I think it is detroit those palm trees prove that..................

internationalmanofmystery - 3/10/2011 9:17:25 AM

+6 Boost

On another note, Is Kia paying Lexus royalties for the use of the IS rear end? Just asking :)

2003TCSignature - 3/10/2011 9:59:35 AM

-2 Boost

Yech!

Whelan - 3/10/2011 10:18:06 AM

-1 Boost

I've never been an aftermarket wheel fan, they make a car look chinsy and ghetto. Very rarely can someone execute a good looking wheel combo.

The Optima looks just fine with the wheels they gave it originally so this is pure ****. Hey look, Kia can offer HID's and LED taillamps, yet VW is still trying to cut costs and give the people old-tech halogens and plain bulbs in the back for US consumers.

Hoorayforpeepee - 3/14/2011 8:13:41 PM

+1 Boost

Nice cars but I don't like companies that force you to buy vs lease, I wish the rates were lower