Wagner Kia of Shrewsbury

KIA 2011 Optima

Five years ago, the lowly Optima ranked fourth in sales popularity among KIA seven models. Competing family cars like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord were sales leaders for their brands. Then, KIA went to work, and the smashingly handsome Optima debuted in April. Nine months have passed, and we'll tender a verdict: The 2011 Optima should become KIA's top seller and give Camry and Accord shoppers a better choice. It wins Cars.com's highest award, Best of 2011.

The 2011 KIA Optima

A decade ago, a shape this clean and inspiring would have cost real money. The Optima is deceptively simple, yet classy enough that you never think to ask how much it costs. It is proof that in 2011 good design is egalitarian you can have damn nice things any time you want them, no matter what your business card says.