2011 Kia Optima combines style and performance

New Kia Optima is wider and lower than its predecessor and has a streamlined, coupe-like profile.

By Ron Beasley….

New Kia Optima is wider and lower than its predecessor and has a streamlined, coupe-like profile.

Kia has a winner with its new Optima four-door sedan. It’s stylish and comfortable with a long list of amenities and technology features, and there are three all-new powertrains to choose from, including a turbo and Kia’s first-ever hybrid.

This next generation Optima has Kia’s new design language highlighted by a streamlined profile. Based on an all-new midsize platform, it’s longer, wider and lower than its predecessor and has a coupe-like profile with a sweeping chrome arc that flows from the A through C pillars.

It has a high and pronounced shoulder line that leads to sculpted flanks, while the front has a striking face with Kia’s signature tabbed grille surrounded by projector headlights.

Under the hood, there’s a choice of three new Theta II powerplants — a 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter GDI turbo or a 2.4-liter hybrid engine. The 2.4-liter GDI engine produces 200 hp, while upgrading to the available 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine (EX Turbo and SX models) delivers V-6 power with a four-cylinder engine that produces 274 hp, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The 2011 Optima is available in the four trim levels — LX, EX, EX Turbo and SX:

LX — Includes dual exhaust with chrome tips, solar glass, outside mirror turn signal indicators and 16-inch steel wheels fitted with 205/65R16 tires.

EX — Has standard fog lights, heated outside mirrors, exterior chrome/body-color door handles along with 17-inch alloy wheels with P215/55/R17 tires.

EX Turbo — Adds a unique front grille design.

SX — Is the performance model; adds HID headlights with auto leveling, LED rear combination lights, unique front grille design, rear lip spoiler, sculpted side sills, aero wiper blades, black front brake calipers and 18-inch black machined finish alloy wheels with P225/45R18 tires.

On the inside, the Optima cabin is spacious and comfortable, with many standard convenience features such as a six-way adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, illuminated vanity mirrors with a ticket holder and a trip computer. An available panoramic sunroof provides an open-air feeling, while the seats are ergonomically designed and there is plenty of storage space available.

At the same time, the Optima is designed as a driver’s car, with the instrument panel contoured toward the driver for a cockpit feel, with precision gauges and controls contributing to an overall sport performance environment. A high console with a short shifter adds to the cockpit feel and paddle shifters behind the steering wheel allow alternative gear changing.

Additional standard interior features include a tilt/telescopic steering column, power door locks, power windows, sun visor extension and a cooling glove box.

Base price on the 2011 Kia Optima EX is $22,495.

Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to LetsTalkCars@aol.com.


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1 COMMENT

  1. Great post! Are you a personal fan of Kia? I communicate for project Advanced Technology and Design Korea and share info like yours on our multiple social media channels. Come by the blog (www.advancedtechnologykorea.com), facebook fan page (www.facebook.com/advancedtechKOR) and twitter (www.twitter.com/advancedtechkr) if you can. We always have up to date news about anything auto, IT and business. If you have any questions about the project that can't be found in the info on the blog or facebook fan page, feel free to contact me! Supporters and writers for the project are always welcomed. Have a good one and happy Thursday from Korea!

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