First Drive: 2011 Kia Optima
Rivalries are a fact of life. When they are in the family, they can be troublesome. On the other hand, they can help to raise the level of game for both family members.
That’s the case Kia finds itself in with the 2011 Kia Optima.
First seen at the New York International Auto Show back in April, the Optima looked a stunning, almost Teutonic counterpart to the stylized and swoopy Hyundai Sonata. This wouldn’t much matter if the two cars came from separate automakers, but the Optima and Sonata are direct rivals offered by the same parent company.
At that point, the gauntlet was thrown, and all bets were off. It looks like Kia is not content to just play second fiddle anymore.
See also:
Engine oil and oil filter
Checking the engine oil level
1. Be sure the vehicle is on level
ground.
2. Start the engine and allow it to
reach normal operating temperature.
3. Turn the engine off and wait for a
few min ...
Powertrains and Performance
Two engines are offered on the Sportage LX: a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder
(140 hp and 136 pound-feet of torque) and a 2.7-liter V6 (173 hp and 178 lb-ft).
The Sportage EX comes standard with th ...
Before driving
Before entering vehicle
• Be sure that all windows, outside mirror(s), and outside lights are clean.
• Check the condition of the tires.
• Check under the vehicle for any sign of
leaks.
• ...