What is it?
This is the third generation of Kia's midsize sedan that carries the South Korean company's ambitious goals of increased market share and greater cache among enthusiasts. It will launch with a four-cylinder engine making 200 hp, paired with either a six-speed automatic or manual transmission. A turbo four pumping out 274 hp will join later this year, followed by Kia's first U.S. hybrid in early 2011.
The 2011 model features dramatic new styling with a sweeping chrome arch, Kia's Tiger front grille design and a choice of four wheel sets, including two 18-inch options. It uses a MacPherson suspension in front and a multilink configuration in the rear. The interior is upgraded with leather and attractive stitching. The Optima is longer, lower and wider than its predecessor and looks more aggressive in appearance and stance.
How does it drive?
Quite fast. We did a brief test drive on the course at Road Atlanta. Great way to test a midsize car, no? And the Optima has a bit of get up in base four-banger guise. The revs are strong though a bit loud during aggressive acceleration, and the engine brings this family car up to speed quickly. The transmission offers smooth shifts, and the brakes have a nice feel with proficient bite after a little pedal travel.
The steering is light at first, in line with other cars in the class, but offers satisfying response further into maneuvers. The Optima responds well in turns and when pushed. If it can handle Road Atlanta, your local expressway should be a breeze. The interior is fairly quiet and comfortable, and there's plenty of legroom and headroom front and rear. Plus, you get a big trunk. The body is composed and sharp.
Do I want it?
Yes. The new Optima gives Kia more credibility in the ultracompetitive midsize segment than it's ever had. This car has the potential to do for Kia what the new Sonata has done for Hyundai--land it on the radars of mainstream car buyers. The Optima is not the best in the segment, but it's an impressive execution that will impress many.
This is the third generation of Kia's midsize sedan that carries the South Korean company's ambitious goals of increased market share and greater cache among enthusiasts. It will launch with a four-cylinder engine making 200 hp, paired with either a six-speed automatic or manual transmission. A turbo four pumping out 274 hp will join later this year, followed by Kia's first U.S. hybrid in early 2011.
The 2011 model features dramatic new styling with a sweeping chrome arch, Kia's Tiger front grille design and a choice of four wheel sets, including two 18-inch options. It uses a MacPherson suspension in front and a multilink configuration in the rear. The interior is upgraded with leather and attractive stitching. The Optima is longer, lower and wider than its predecessor and looks more aggressive in appearance and stance.
How does it drive?
Quite fast. We did a brief test drive on the course at Road Atlanta. Great way to test a midsize car, no? And the Optima has a bit of get up in base four-banger guise. The revs are strong though a bit loud during aggressive acceleration, and the engine brings this family car up to speed quickly. The transmission offers smooth shifts, and the brakes have a nice feel with proficient bite after a little pedal travel.
The steering is light at first, in line with other cars in the class, but offers satisfying response further into maneuvers. The Optima responds well in turns and when pushed. If it can handle Road Atlanta, your local expressway should be a breeze. The interior is fairly quiet and comfortable, and there's plenty of legroom and headroom front and rear. Plus, you get a big trunk. The body is composed and sharp.
Do I want it?
Yes. The new Optima gives Kia more credibility in the ultracompetitive midsize segment than it's ever had. This car has the potential to do for Kia what the new Sonata has done for Hyundai--land it on the radars of mainstream car buyers. The Optima is not the best in the segment, but it's an impressive execution that will impress many.
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