An aggressive stance, chrome tipped dual exhausts and, on top trims, flashy chrome wheels complete the look.Performance-wise, the new KIA Optima does it all right, with a sweet, powerful-yet-economical engine, great steering, and a quick, nimble feel overall. The bright spot is that heated-and-cooled front seats as well as heated back seats are optional on the Optima EX and SX.
Features remain a strength throughout the Kia lineup, and the "KIA Optima" is no exception. Even mid EX trims get things like dual-zone climate control and a smart-key system.
Top SX trims will offer a more powerful 274-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while an even higher-mileage Hybrid model will join the lineup late in the model year.
After test driving the all-new 2011 Kia Optima, most car reviewers have one thing to say to the likes of Honda and Toyota: watch your backs. Reviewers have only driven KIA Optima models equipped with the base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. An Optima Hybrid is also slated for 2011. Like the KIA Optima, it has a comfortable cabin and good performance. Also like the KIA Optima, it has high-tech interior options and a hybrid option.
The KIA Optima is closely related to the Hyundai Sonata (Hyundai owns Kia). A few reviewers say the Sonata has a more comfortable rear seat than the KIA Optima and the Sonata matches the Optima’s long warranty coverage.
The 2011 Kia Optima comes in three trims: LX, EX and SX. Launched in November 2010, the KIA Optima will initially have a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Later in 2011 an Optima Hybrid will hit the market.
Under the skin, the KIA Optima uses the same platform as the 2010 Hyundai Sonata. The cars share nearly identical dimensions: they both have a 110-inch wheelbase, and the KIA Optima is just an inch longer overall than the Sonata. Compared to the 2010 Optima, however, the latest iteration is noticeably larger, with a 2.9-inch longer wheelbase.
The new Optima offers a choice of three powertrains, including a hybrid. The KIA Optima's standard dual exhaust accounts for the 2-hp advantage over the Sonata. Whether you choose manual or automatic, the Optima will return an impressive 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.
Before 2010 expires, the Optima will be offered with the 274-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that's an option in the Sonata. The hybrid Optima will debut in early 2011.
To offer a taste of the new Optima, Kia brought a half-dozen pre-production EX four-cylinder models to Road Atlanta, the renowned 2.54-mile course. The SX model's firmer ride—and meatier 225/45R18 tires—will match the sporty exterior.
The Optima feels roomy, with the dash angled slightly toward the driver.
The Optima offers a ton of standard features, including USB audio-input jacks, Bluetooth connectivity, tilt-and-telescope steering, and an air-conditioned glove box for cooling drinks. The options include luxury-level tech, such as a heated steering wheel and heated and ventilated seats, which our mid-level EX models had.
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