2011 Kia Optima EX
Wednesday, March 30th, 2011
Overview
The all-new new 2011 Optima is a cousin to the Hyundai Sonata, but it definitely has its own unique personality and styling. Mechanically it is a clone to its sibling the Hyundai Sonata, which the public has had rave reviews for. The Optima comes with Kia’s 100, 000 mile limited power train 10 year warranty. The 2011 Optima features an all-new exterior and interior design.
Safety
- Standard safety systems include
- Dual front advanced airbags,
- Front seat mounted side airbags
- Full-length side curtain airbags
- 3-point safety belts for all seats including front pretensioners/load limiters
- LATCH system for child seats
- Downhill brake/hill-start assist control
- Front/rear crumple zones
- Steel beams in each door
- Tire pressure-monitoring system.
Under the Hood
The Optima EX comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter direct-injection four-cylinder drive train, that produces 274 horsepower. The 2.0 drive train is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Kia has created a 4-cylinder engine that is capable of V6 power, that uses a twin- turbocharger integrated into a cast stainless-steel exhaust manifold, This motor produces enough power to propel the Optima in any road condition.
Driving Impression
The Optima steering and braking performed well in any driving situation I encountered. Acceleration was equal to any 6 cylinder and was responsive on the highway in passing vehicles with ease. The 6-speed automatic allows you to manually shift through the gears.
The 2011 Kia Optima features electric steering, which does allow you to feel engaged with the road. The Optima EX comes with 17-inch 215/55s, which make the ride quiet at high-speeds. The electric rack-and-pinion steering was responsive and the four-wheel antilock disc brakes have plenty of stopping power.
Inside
The interior of the Optima is modern and attractive .with contemporary flowing lines. The armrest controls are neatly laid out with easy access to the power mirror, window and door locks. The center stack has a unique design for the radio and climate controls and navigation system. USB and auxiliary ports are placed below the instrument panel.
The information/entertainment system is voice-activated and controls the audio system, Bluetooth-enabled phone, personal media devices, and vehicle settings.
The seats are comfortable and hug your body while making hairpin turns. The front seats are heated and cooled, while the rear seats are heated. The steering wheel is heated, leather-wrapped, has tilt and telescoping features. The rear seat was comfortable and has plenty of head, and legroom.
The trunk has 15.4 cubic-foot and with the rear seat folded down can accommodate larger items.
The Optima Ex came equipped with the optional panoramic sunroof and power sunshades, which was a nice finishing touch to this nicely equipped sedan.
Outside
The Optima EX has a sleek stance, signature front fascia and grille. The Optima has unique styled headlights and fog lights. The Optima has flared wheel arches, and the fastback styled rear glass meets the high-mount trunk lid. The large dual exhaust highlight this extremely well designed sedan The Optima definitely appears to be an upscale looking vehicle.
Summary
If you are in the market for a mid size sedan the Optima is definitely worth a trip to a Kia dealership. The Optima’s long list of options makes it a compelling choice for those who want a sedan.
Specifications
- · Engine: 2.4-liter 4cyl 200hp/186 ft-lbs torque
- · Drive: FWD
- · Wheelbase: 110in.
- · Total length: 190.7in.
- · Total width: 72.1in.
- · Total height: 57.3in.
- · Track: f/r-62.8/62.8in.
- · Turning circle: 35ft.
- · Headroom: f/r-40/37.8in.
- · Legroom: f/r-45.5/34.7in.
- · Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons
- · 0-60mph: 8.9 seconds
- · EPA cargo volume: 15.4cu.ft.
- · Curb weight: 3,206lbs.