Optima – Automobiles Review

2016 Kia Optima Continues To Prove Itself Worthy. Here is Why

2016 Kia Optima Kia Motors America’s best-selling vehicle, the 2016 Optima, has earned the highest prize possible: the Top Safety Pick Plus (TSP+) by the Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) when geared with the additional front crash prevention. As you might know, the ratings are given in each of the five crashworthiness tests, along with the integration of active safety technologies to aid the crash prevention. As expected, the trustworthy Optima received “good” crashworthiness ratings and excellent rates for the optional front-crash prevention system.

In order to be qualified for the TSP+ award, IIHS tests require from each vehicle to earn “good” ratings in five tests: small overflap front, moderate overflap front, side impact, roof strength and head restraints. All this with “advanced” and “superior” ratings for front crash preventions.

In fact, we have told you a lot about the Kia Optima. Constructed under the watchful eye of brand’s chief design officer, Peter Schreyer, the 2016 Optima maintains athletic spirit with muscular appearance, powerful and efficient drivetrain system and tons of optional and customizable features. Coming fresh from Kia’s plant in West Point, Georgia in five trim levels, LX, LX 1.6T, EX, SX and SXL, this sweetie surely deserves this prestigious prize.

So, what do you think? Did the 2016 Optima deserve it?

Source: Kia

March 31, 2016

2016 Kia Plug-In Hybrid Revealed Ahead of Global Debut: Here is All You Should Know

2016 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid Kia’s first Optima Plug-in Hybrid, brand’s first ever plug-in hybrid electric car, will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month, ahead of the car going on sale later in 2016. So, despite being the first “green” Kia vehicle, what else is special about this one?

The first and most important feature of the new Optima is the greater battery capacity and electric range that enable up to 33 miles (59km) in electric-only mode. After that the efficient and flexible 2.0-liter GI gasoline direct injection power unit is engaged and provides smooth and overall pleasurable drive.

Also, in terms of drivetrain system, the Hybrid is powered by a 9.8 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack with 50kW electric motor which allows the vehicle to operate in the range of 33 miles with a speed of up to 120km/h (66kW).

The gasoline unit offers the aid of four cylinders and generates a total of 156hp (114kW) and 189 Nm of torque. What is also special about the engine is that it allows the car to operate in change-sustain mode right after the battery runs out of charge. And when the force between electricity and gasoline is combined, the total output that is produced is 205hp (150kW) and 375 Nm of torque. Impressive, right?

And what about the performance? The combination of highly efficient powerplant and battery does not mean that the vehicle is slow or “lazy”. In fact, this model is a faster and more agile than the previous one. The vehicle goes from 0 to 100km/h in 9.4 seconds (this means with 0.6 seconds faster than the predecessor)

Exterior design

2016 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid

Optima Plug-in Hybrid can be instantly recognized as a Kia vehicle, thanks to the improved, but still well-known visuals. The restyled active air flap grille is not only a piece of beauty, but also, when activated, reduced drag coefficient and at the same time, the front and rear bumpers enable more efficient air-flow over the body, thanks to the more aerodynamic design.

Also special for this model is the exclusive chrome trim with smooth metallic blue finish for the rear bumper, grille surround and wheel arches.

Interior design

2016 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid

The inside of the vehicle features tons of enhancements and upgrades that reflect Kia’s innovative nature and desire to keep up with contemporary automobile trends. There is a new instrument cluster display, infotainment system and of course, overall enhanced ambience for even higher levels of comfort.

In terms of equipment, Optima Plug-in Hybrid comes with Kia’s latest audio-visual navigation with 8.0-inch touch screen, DAB digital radio, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

2016 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid

Also, the vehicle is equipped with two key technologies for saving and intelligently consuming energy: the Coasting Guide Control and regenerative braking. The braking system allows the vehicle to harvest kinetic energy while coasting or braking in a such way that the whole drivetrain system is able to regenerate energy and recharge the Plug-In Hybrid technology. How cool is that?

Additional equipment and safety features

Optima Plug-in Hybrid offers high levels of safety, thanks to its lightweight, but high-strength body and of course, by the numerous active and passive safety features. Also, the body benefits from the extensive use of Advanced High-Strength Steel that dominates more than 50% of the body.

Furthermore, the Hybrid is fitted with Vehicle Stability Management that ensures stability under braking and cornering by controlling vehicle’s Electronic Stability Control system that activates if loss of traction is detected. Also, the latest Kia family member comes with extended range of safety systems that include:

2016 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid

Advanced Smart Cruise Control; Autonomous Emergency Braking; Lane Keeping Assist System; High Beam Assist; Speed Limit Information Function; Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Also, there is a short-range “City” radar integrated that helps drivers avoid or mitigate the effects of front collision when driving with speed under 50km/h and there is also a long-range “Urban” radar that enables the vehicle to detect and respond to obstacles between 30 and 80 km/h.

So, what do you think about this one? We do look forward to vehicle’s unveiling and we are impatient to give you even more details! Stick with us!

Source: Kia

February 18, 2016

Christopher Walken Shows What’s Inside His Closet in the new Kia Super Bowl Ad

2016 Kia Optima: Walken Closet “Big Game” Ad “Walken Closet” is the name of the newest “Big Game” ad by Kia and if you haven’t watch it already here’s your chance! The advertisement is creative and is one of the most versatile and untraditional sports we have ever seen. And by the way it gives you the chance of looking inside Christopher Walken’s closet.

The Academy Award-winner makes the 60 seconds ad experience a true masterpiece. In it he uses a colorfully stylish sock, which he compares to the ordinary beige one. With this he demonstrates how the next gen 2016 Kia Optima stands out in a segment filled with entries that look and drive the same, namely the midsize sedan segment.

The “Walken Closet” is actually the centerpiece of company’s multiplatform campaign that will highlight the benefits of owning 2016 Optima. According to Kia (and Walken) these qualities are contrary to basic, boring and uninspired. Walken explains in the spot, “There are two kinds of people in this world. Those who are content to blend in … then there are those who expect more. They’re exciting.”

2016 Kia Optima

In other words, the new Optima will bring about more refinement and sophistication in comparison to any other midsize sedan. The car is passionately designed and crafted, features European styling inside and out, offers significant ride and handling improvements.

It is Kia’s best-selling model and is currently offered with three engine choices, including the brand new 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder mated to a seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). The car is roomier, more luxurious than ever and comes with abundant standard equipment.

Source: Kia

February 4, 2016

Kia Promises to Lauch Partially-Autonomous Vehicles By 2020

2015 Kia Soul EV Kia plans to introduce a full range of partially-autonomous driving vehicles and technologies by 2020 and by 2030 they have planned to reveal their first fully-autonomous car to the mass market. At the momentary stage Kia develops the first of its Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and numerous further-enhanced engines.

Kia Advanced Driver Assistance System

The system will basically enable all the vehicles in which it is installed to operate autonomously. How? By incorporating different technologies, some of which are:

“Recognition” – this term explains the new sensors that will detect other vehicles and hazards, along with the ability to read the road signs. And of course, this all means that the vehicle will be capable to identify poor road conditions. How cool is that?

“Judgment” – There will be also advanced computing systems that will allow making of decisions about the information gathered via ADAS sensors.

“Control”- Active electronics and mechanical systems will allow the vehicle to make numerous decisions in every given situations. Even though it still sounds too futuristic and brave, we tend to believe that Kia team will make its best to make these system adequate caretakers.

The partially-autonomous Kia vehicles

As said above, Kia plans to demonstrate the first almost-autonomous ADAS geared vehicles by 2020. But what about the details?

Along with the innovative ADAS technology, the independent cars will be geared with Highway Driving Assist, Lane Guidance System and Advanced Smart Cruise Control. HDA is made to maintain a safe distance from other cars, while it will keep the car in its lane. The system will also assist in cases of danger with the activation of numerous safety features.

Traffic Jam Assist, on the other hand, will help to make light work of heavy congestion by gathering information during highly congested traffic situations. The system will also employ wide range of sensors and will keep maintaining that safe distance from other vehicles within its line.

And in order to make the parking as easy as possible, Kia will also develop special technologies to enhance the low-speed maneuvers. This will be possible with the latest Smart Parking Assist System (SPAS) that can enable the vehicle to park itself in parallel or perpendicular spaces with minimal driver intervention. The brand will also offer the Remote Advanced Parking Assist System (RAPAS). It will allow Kia vehicles to park themselves when the driver presses the smart key button while within a certain range of the car. Sweet, right?

2015 Kia Soul EV

In fact, all these technologies will also be offered on latest production models, including Sorento and the soon-to-be-launched Optima and Sportage. The advanced systems are also created with enhanced safety and comfort in mind, in order to enable appropriate reaction in cases of road accidents.

By 2030 Kia promises to bring us a fully independent lineup of cars.

The fully-autonomous Kia vehicles will come with special R&D resources on vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication. And by enabling vehicles to effectively “communicate” with their surroundings, Kia automobiles will be able to make the ADAS technology even more effective and more efficient.

Source: Kia

November 16, 2015

2016 Kia Optima Is Recognized As Best Buy Of The Year

2016 Kia Optima Kia Motors America’s well-designed and passionately developed 2016 Optima received just what it deserves. Indeed, the Best Buy of the Year Prize. According to Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com, this is the best vehicle along all the midsize cars that deserves the special award. With extensive and comprehensive tests, the vehicle proved itself as a standout among all other 49 Best Buy Award finalists down to 12 winners.

Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Awards further provide significant maintenance and service to all customers by recognizing the 2016 best car. In fact, there are more than 300 modern vehicles that were tested to prove themselves worthy for the prestigious award.

2016 Kia Optima

So, what makes this vehicle so special? First of all, the vehicle catches the eye with its incredible and instantly recognizable design. Its athletic, yet stylish visuals and wider and stiffer proportions really make that difference on the road. Secondly, in terms of drivetrain system this sweetie has a lot to offer. With its redesigned 1,6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit, mated to a seven-speed Dual Clutch gearbox, the Optima is more confident and more versatile than ever. And at the end, Kia team offers incredible flexibility with the choice of a total five trim levels: LX, LX 1,6T, EX, SX and SXL.

Source: Kia Motors America

November 13, 2015

2016 Kia Optima GT Prototype Revealed in Frankfurt

Kia Optima GT Fron View Kia Optima GT is the high-powered version of the Frankfurt debuting 2016 Optima. The GT is currently in development and it is actually the first-ever high performance version of the model which will be introduced to the European market. Just like the basic variant, model’s sports prototype has also been presented at the car event in Germany. It is dedicated to those looking for more emotive and performance-oriented drive.

Athletic Design on the Inside and Out

As you can see from the images revealed by Kia, the Optima GT has more athletic and sportier appearance than the standard Optima. Although the car previewed in Frankfurt is only a prototype, it gives a clear understanding of what the production-ready variant will be like. For instance, the GT will feature a redesigned ‘tiger-nose’ grille, bold body styling, and a new wheel design.

The cabin of the Optima GT is the same as the standard Optima, but it will include more dynamic intent in its execution. There are currently no pictures confirming this statement.

Dynamic Performance & Drivetrain

Kia Optima GT Rear View

2016 Optima GT has ride, handling and performance specifically tuned for its athletic character. At the same time the driving experience would not compromise in terms of comfortability. By the way, this version of the vehicle will feature its own and unique suspension settings compared to standard models in the range. It will be also fitted with a new Electronically-Controlled Suspension system which will deliver damping force to each wheel.

In addition, the car will be equipped with larger disc brakes and a tailored version of Kia’s new rack-mounted motor-driven power steering (R-MDPS) will enhance Optima GT’s dynamic performance.

Higher power output is natural for the Optima GT. Powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged gasoline direct injection (T-GDI) engine, it will be capable of producing 245 PS (180 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 353 Nm (260 lb ft) at 1,350-4,000 rpm. The transmission is six-speed automatic.

Additional details on Optima GT will be announced closer to launch in 2016. The standard Kia Optima range is scheduled to go on sale across Europe in the forth quarter of 2015.

2016 Kia Optima GT Technical Specifications:

Engine: 2.0-litre / 245 ps T-GDI Gasoline
Type Capacity Max power Max torque Valves Fuel system Emissions classTransmission	Four cylinder in-line, turbocharged 2.0-litres, 1,998 cc 245 ps (180 kW) @ 6,000 rpm 353 Nm (260 lb ft) @ 1,350-4,000 rpm 16 (four per cylinder) Direct injection Euro Stage 6bSix-speed automatic

Wheels & tyres:
Wheels Tyres	Alloy 18-inch 235/45 R18

Dimensions (mm):

Exterior
Exterior Overall height	4,855 1,465	Overall width Wheelbase	1,860 2,805

Performance:
Top speed (kph) 0-100 kph (secs)	240 7.4

Economy (litres / 100 km):
Combined Extra-urban Urban CO2 (g/km)	8.2 6.1 11.8 191

Source: Kia

September 16, 2015

Thoroughly Revised 2016 Kia Optima Debuts in Frankfurt

2016 Kia Optima Front View 2016 Kia Optima in its European Specification is going to be revealed at the Frankfurt International Motor Show on September 15. This is the fourth generation of the model and it is scheduled to go on sale in the Old Continent in the last quarter of the year. The car is characterized by contemporary forms, brand new exterior and interior design as well as more spacious cabin. Not to mention the array of technology features included as a standard or as an available options. Furthermore, Kia decided to introduce the 2016 Optima with a wide range of efficient powertrains. The great news here is that there will also be a hybrid one.

Cutting Edge Exterior Design

What can we say about the exterior styling of the latest Optima? First thing that grabs the attention is that it is harmonious and absolutely substituted to brand’s newest design philosophy. The car looks athletic with its detailed surface, sharp body lines and more elongated sedan silhouette. LEDs a featured both up frond and in the rear.

The next important thing to mention here, is that the 2016 Optima is way longer than the previous generation. Precisely, the wheelbase has been extended by 10 mm to 2,805 mm. Therefore the full vehicle length now measures 4,855 mm. what is more, the car is also 25 mm wider, at 1,860 mm, and 10 mm taller at 1,465 mm.

Better Interior

2016 Kia Optima Interior

These changes of course result in a more spacious and comfortable cabin. In general, the interior was thoroughly refined and now features high-quality materials. This in turn makes the experience of the passengers more luxurious than ever.

The cabin features a cleaner and more unified design than the previous model. For instance, the dashboard is spread along a more horizontal plane, wider central console and a new 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

Kia offers its Optima customers the option of choosing black only, black with stone beige or dark grey with light grey interior.

Petrol, Diesel and Hybrid in the Future

2016 Kia Optima Rear View

Kia is also offering its customers the choice to select their Optima with petrol and upgraded diesel engines. The good news is that brand representatives have ensured us there is a plug-in hybrid to follow in 2016. All engines will be driving the front wheels and will compliant with the latest Euro 6 emission standard.

The first diesel unit that will be offered in Europe and is expected to be the most sold one, is the updated 1.7-litre CRDi. Compared to the one featured in the previous generation model, it is more powerful but way more efficient.

To be more precise, it generates 141 PS/ 104 kW (up from 136 PS) and 340 Nm/ 251 lb-ft of torque (up from 325 Nm). The emissions have been reduced to 110 g/km.

2016 Kia Optima will be also available with the same 2.0-litre CVVL engine with continuously variable valve lift technology. It produces 163 PS.

Lower Emissions & the Seven-Speed DCT

Kia’s advanced new seven-speed double-clutch transmission (DCT) will be available with the 1.7-litre CRDi diesel. The DCT is engineered for a sportier driving experience with instant gear changes. It also contributes for lower CO2 emissions.

The 1.7-litre CRDi and the 2.0-litre CVVL engines are also available with a six-speed manual transmission, while latter can be specified with six-speed automatic transmissions, too.

2016 Kia Optima is going on sale in Europe by the end of the year. Kia also said that the model is currently being developed in a body style, inspired by the Kia SPORTSPACE concept car.

Source: Kia

August 26, 2015

Kia Premieres the Fresh New Looks and Styling of 2016 Optima

2016 Kia Optima

The redesigned Optima 2016 is definitely a symbol of the brand’s ever evolving successful model. The Optima is redesigned, yet recognizable and is geared with longer and wider chassis, three different engine models and the seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission. At the start of the sale, the 2016 Optima will be available with five trim levels – LX, LX Turbo, EX, SX Turbo and SLX. As the previous model, Kia will be built at West Point, Georgia.

We all know how successful the Optima line is. And now, with even more confidence, the brand releases the Optima 2016: a well-known sedan with new-age capabilities. The wheelbase is extended to 110.4 inches, and the overall width of the vehicle is increased with 1.0 inch to bring you overall of 73.2 inch. The redesigned model comes with the first bi-functional HID headlights – you get the Dynamic Bending Lambs and the High Beam Assist.

Optima’s interior is larger and comfortable and precisely built for the redesigned cabin. The team paid special attention to the seats. Their distinctive frame and style make them more comfortable and soft. Driver’s board is simple and stylish and contains a wide central console. This time the brand uses simpler aesthetics, mixed with smooth and firm feel. All the control buttons are precisely grouped, you will get the feeling of wide and spacious cabin. And of course, a wide variety of technology units is included. Get ready to deal with a car, geared with the next-gen techs and tweaks.

When it comes to performance, the top priority for the engineer team was the handling. The results of precise work and fine tuning are light-speed stability, lower reaction time and overall light handling. The 2016 Optima comes with three engine choices, that balance between fuel consumption economy or the sporty variation. Generally you will be choosing between 2.4-Liter GDI four-cylinder, capable of producing 185 hp (136 kW) at a 6,000 rpm and the 2.0-Liter GDI turbo, which brings you 247 hp (182 kW) at 1,350 rpm. Both of the engines are specifically built to fit perfectly the six-speed automatic gearbox. The third engine, the 1.6Liter four-cylinder turbo, will be offered on the LX trim. It brings you 178 hp (131 kW) at 5,5000 rpm. It mates with a seven-speed DCT.

There is a lot coming out for the Optima, so stay tuned and don’t miss any facts!

Source: Kia

April 2, 2015

Kia Reveals First Image of 2016 Optima Prior New York Premiere

2016 Kia Optima SX Front View So, this is the first image of the future 2016 Kia Optima that was just revealed. And I am a little bit disappointed. The car in the photograph above has little to do with what we have seen from the beautiful design studies previewed by the brand a week ago. The sketches showed an elongated vehicle with flowing forms, and close-to-the-ground stance. The wheel arches were more pronounced and the sides were more sculpted.

Judging by the photo, the fourth generation Optima has retained its classical forms, but has added some accents like the more flashy tiger nose grille, the new gills on the front bumper and the chrome accents all over the face of the car. Double multispoke wheels are not what this car needs when it comes to surprising the public, although they fit perfectly its mediocre stance.

Kia also officially announced that the new Optima will be powered by many powerplan options. Given the fact, that it will be based on Hyundai‘s Sonata platform, I do expect to see in the engine range the 2.0-liter and 1.6-liter turbocharged units as well as the 2.4-liter naturally aspirated one. And this is where I pray that Kia will somehow surprise me.

The other data announced by the company includes confirmation on a more spacious interior, additional luxury features and never-seen-before technologies, at least on a Kia … Unfortunately I do not anticipate to see anything surprisingly more different than the previous generation Optima. Whether this proves right or not, we’ll see on 1^st of April, when the car debuts at the New York Auto Show.

Source: Kia

March 26, 2015

This is the Next Generation Kia Optima

Next Generation Kia Optima Sketch We have exclusively received the first sketches previewing the future Optima and you should admit that this car is simply beautiful. Like its predecessor, the first generation Optima that has debuted at the New York auto show in 2010, this Kia will be revealed at the same event, so we do expect to see it revealed on 1^st of April.

This model has done so much for the brand. First, it is the reason why Kia Motors became so popular, and secondly it has been company’s best-selling vehicle in the United States for three years in a row.

The design sketches reveal passionate forms and somehow obsessive remake of the famous sedan. But, what we have forgotten so far is the Sportspace concept that we have seen in Geneva. It definitely links to these teasers, although they represent a more aggressive and sporty car. The question is whether the new Optima will be a production version of this concept.

Well, what is visible from these sketches is pretty much the same as the Sportspace with the exception of the wheel arches that are more pronounced and it looks like that the sides are more sculpted. At last, also known for sure is that the future midsize sedan will be based on Hyundai’s Sonata platform, so it is possible that it will be equipped with the same engine range, the 2.0-liter and 1.6-liter turbocharged units as well as the 2.4-liter naturally aspirated one.

Source: Kia

March 19, 2015

Kia’s New Geneva Concept is Optima Based Plug-in Hybrid?

Kia Optima Concept On 3rd of March Kia will reveal a mysterious stylish new concept vehicle at the 85th Salon International de l’Automobile or the so called Geneva Motor Show. The company announced that the car will be a D-segment model, which is actually the 11th concept car created by Kia’s European design studio in Frankfurt, Germany. As we can see it has a sporty “nose” and is painted in red color that suggests activity and dynamism.

The concept is definitely created for those looking for the perfect vehicle that complements their active lifestyle. Kia also said that the concept is spacious and filled with versatile accessories.

You can also see that the car has confident and powerful lines. They elegantly sweep from Kia’s hallmark ‘tiger-nose’ grille towards the rear of the vehicle.

And if you take a closer look at the teaser image, you’ll be definitely confused, whether you are seeing Kia’s new concept or the Optima model. This is probably a clear sign that the car will be based on it, but will carry with sharper looks and more sporting.

Some of the other details of the concept that need attention are the vents in the wings and sleek look of the side profile. The concept embodies modern design and dramatic energy. It is purposeful and style-conscious, and it seems as it can deliver a sanctuary from the stresses of the modern world.

It is rumored that there will also be a production version of this concept which is expected to be shown at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Kia will also offer several engine choices including a plug-in hybrid option.

Source: Kia

February 10, 2015

Kia is Premiering Diesel-Electric Optima T-Hybrid in Paris

Kia Optima T-Hybrid Concept is previewing new powertrain technology ahead of future mass production. The official reveal of the car will happen just in lees than two days at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. There, Kia will also make the first application and demonstration of the brand’s innovative hybrid powertrain.

T-Hybrid stands for turbo hybrid. In details, this Kia concept is driven by the model’s existing 1.7-litre CRDi turbo-diesel engine, coupled with a small electric motor. The latter is powered by a 48V lead-carbon battery. Optima T-Hybrid can be driven only in electric mode at low speeds and when cruising. The deceleration here serves in terms of recharging the battery pack.

Lead-carbon batteries were chosen for the powertrain. They do not require active cooling and are easier to recycle. Of course, being a Hybrid vehicle, it includes zero-emissions stop-start system. There is also a belt-driven starter generator that replaces the conventional alternator. Vehicle’s battery is smaller, thus enhancing weight distribution and handling.

The innovative electric supercharger for the CRDi engine delivers improved power and torque at all engine speeds. The electric supercharger in particular helps to boost torque and engine response at low engine speeds. Another interesting fact is that at the moment, Optima T-Hybrid’s 136 hp 1.7-litre engine produces CO2 emissions of 128 g/km. These figures will change over time, due to current development of the technology.

Kia has no plans to run Optima T-Hybrid Concept as a production model at the moment. T-Hybrid powertrain is still under consideration for new Kia models in the future.

Source: Kia

September 30, 2014

Tag: Optima

Exterior design

Interior design

Additional equipment and safety features

Kia Advanced Driver Assistance System

The partially-autonomous Kia vehicles

By 2030 Kia promises to bring us a fully independent lineup of cars.

2016 Kia Optima

Athletic Design on the Inside and Out

Dynamic Performance & Drivetrain

2016 Kia Optima GT Technical Specifications:

Cutting Edge Exterior Design

Better Interior

Petrol, Diesel and Hybrid in the Future

Lower Emissions & the Seven-Speed DCT