FAST FACTS
1. The Optima makes 200-hp from a standard direct-injection 2.4L 4-cylinder, while achieving best-in-class 24/35-mpg (city/hwy) fuel economy.
2. Optional class exclusive features include a panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel and heated and cooled front seats.
3. After launch, Kia will introduce a turbocharged model with even more aggressive bodywork and a 274-hp engine.
What a difference a few years can make.
As part of a bold new product rollout that began with the Kia Soul, the Korean automaker is now delivering compelling vehicles with impressive fuel economy and much improved quality, all wrapped-up in a compelling package. In fact, Kia’s new design language works so well on the Optima, if we didn’t know better, we’d expect the starting price to be double.
That’s exactly what Kia wants you to think, showing media present at the launch a short video of the target Gen X customer followed by the cleverly crafted yet arguably true statement that, “Nobody ever dreamed of driving a mid-size sedan until now.”
Based on looks alone, the Optima will draw customers into showrooms, pulling decades-long Honda and Toyota supporters away from their brands with a flashy new look.
And while the Optima is unequivocally svelte, one could easily argue that the biggest drawback to previous generations of Kia’s family sedan wasn’t aesthetics. So… apart from the superficial reasons to purchase this handsome sedan, do the more practical aspects of the 2011 Optima represent a compelling alternative to the industry benchmarks?
See also:
Driving tips
Fuel requirements
Emission control system
Before driving
Suggestions for economical operation
Special driving conditions
Trailer towing
Overloading
Label information ...
Remote keyless entry
➀ Lock button
➁ Unlock button
➂ Panic button (if equipped)
➀ Lock ( )
All doors are locked if the lock button
is pressed.
➁ Unlock ( )
Driver’s door is un ...
Engine start/stop button
Illuminated ENGINE START/STOP
button
Whenever the front door is opened, the
ENGINE START/STOP button will illuminate
for your convenience. The light will
go off after about 30 seconds when the
...