(July 30, 2013) CHICAGO — Cars.com has named the 2013 Kia Optima to be the most affordable midsize sedan in the U.S. Contenders had to be equipped with equipment like automatic transmission, cruise control, a USB connection, Bluetooth, power windows, a power driver's seat and a rearview camera.

Taking into account these features and the five-year estimated fuel cost, Cars.com compiled a list of 10 midsize sedans, ranked from most to least affordable, with the Kia Optima taking the top spot.

"The Optima topped the list because of its combination of great features, low price and impressive estimated five-year fuel cost," said Patrick Olsen, Cars.com's editor-in-chief. "With an estimated $9,750 in fuel cost over five years, the Optima topped out at just $32,975, which is more than $3,000 lower than the average midsize sedan for the same period of time."

"The midsize sedan remains one of the most popular segments in the U.S.," said Olsen. "They serve as great cars for families, commuters, road trippers and more. Because of this, carmakers offer a dizzying amount of styles and options, but with differing content that can make it hard for shoppers to compare apples to apples. That's why we've put this list together, so that shoppers can understand where the most value is before they head to their dealer.