 I purchased this new 2006 Kia Optima LX 2.4L three weeks ago and drove it to Alabama and back to Colorado. The drive was great. I averaged around 28 MPG. The car is much more comfortable than the 03 Kia Spectra I traded in for this new one. My wife was surprised when I drove up in this new Optima. She didn't know for two weeks that I had purchased this new car. She wanted something that was comfortable. This vehicle is very comfortable. I'm happy with this 06 Optima and I would recommend this car to anyone. 