Optima – Page 2 – Automobiles Review

2015 Kia Optima – Minor Facelift

Kia US has unveiled the 2015 Optima midsize sedan. It is built at Kia’s West Point, Ga., facility (KMMG) and features next-generation of UVO eServicesand a number of subtle interior refinements meant to improve ergonomics and offer a more premium experience.

As before, the new Optima is available in LX, EX, SX, SX Turbo and SX-Limited trims. The UVO eServices is available as an option on the EX, SX, SX Turbo and standard on the SX-Limited. The new feature include Geo Fencing, Driving Score, Speed Alerts and Curfew Alerts.

Other innovations include repositioning the wheel-mounted buttons, new brushed bezels for the D-shaped steering wheel coming with SX-Limited and also a new black cloth option for the LX.

Outside, the 2015 Optima is now available with a Smokey Blue (late availability) metallic paint, and Sparkling Silver and Platinum Graphite replace Bright Silver and Metal Bronze, respectively. The acoustic laminated windshield, found last year only on SX-Limited, is offered across the Optima lineup for 2015.

The engine range includes two powerful Theta II powerplants: a 2.4 liter GDI four-cylinder and a 2.0 liter GDI turbo.

The 2.4-liter GDI engine is available on LX, EX and SX models while the more robust 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine is offered exclusively in the SX and SX Limited.

Each engine choice is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission featuring Sportmatic shifting. Drive Mode Select (DMS), which offers owners a customizable driving experience by adjusting transmission shift points and steering weight, remains exclusive to the SX Turbo and SX Limited.

Source: Kia

May 16, 2014

2013 Kia Optima – US Price $21,350

Kia Motors America has become an industry leader in design, quality, safety and value, and as further evidence of the brand’s success. That’s why, one of the biggest automotive medias in the internet – Cars.com has named Kia Optima LX the most affordable midsize sedan.

The ranking recognizes the most affordable mid-size sedan currently available on the market. To qualify vehicles must include the following features:

Automatic transmission
Cruise control
USB
Bluetooth wireless technology
Power windows
Power driver’s seat
Backup camera²

“Providing an outstanding product with world-class design, quality, features and safety at an equally outstanding price is central to the Kia brand promise.The results of the Cars.com Most Affordable Midsize Sedan ranking clearly highlight Kia’s commitment to providing the best value to our customers.”, commented Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing and communications, KMA.

“The Optima topped the list because of its combination of great features, low price and impressive estimated five-year fuel cost,” said Patrick Olsen, Cars.com’s editor-in-chief.

The Optima Hybrid followed in 5^th place, and was deemed to be “more affordable after 5 years than 7 other non-hybrids” on the list.

2013 Kia Optima is priced from $21,350 and comes with a generous standard equipment including power windows and locks, cruise control, a USB port and satellite radio. There are also an air conditioning system, front beverage holders, daytime running lights, remote keyless entry and many more.

Source: Kia

July 31, 2013

2013 Kia Optima Hybrid Delivers Enhanced Efficiency

2013 Kia Optima Hybrid is the updated version of the popular vehicle and includes a more performance-driven and fuel-efficient powertrain as well as more cargo space and premium features.

To be more precise, the powertrain refinements are made to enhance smoothness and drivability, featuring a more robust 47 hp (35 kW) electric traction motor, stronger Hybrid Starter Generator (HSG) and more powerful 47 kW Lithium Polymer battery.

The car delivers 199 horsepower (147 kW) and has combined 318 Nm (235 lb-ft) of torque. The Optima Hybrid is now being offered in two trim levels – base and EX. The firs one achieves an EPA estimated 36 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 38 mpg combined, while the second trim model delivers an EPA estimated 35/39/371.

What also has been enhanced here is that the new Kia model has greater trunk space. Moreover, the EX model comes with additional equipment: navigation with back-up camera, an 8-speaker Infinity audio system, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats and 17-inch wheels to the already long list of amenities.

Furthermore, the model is lighter and aerodynamically enhanced. It runs on 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels, for the base and the EX respectively, and has reduced weight and drag. To be more precise, the enhanced aerodynamics is gained via the Optima Hybrid’s lowered ride height, full belly pan and rear spoiler.

In addition, what also differentiates the model are the satin finished front grille surround and trim on the lower front fascia and side sills, and unique front and rear lighting. In addition, the revised Kia name badge is applied to the hood, trunk lid, and steering wheel.

2013 Optima Hybrid includes an impressive array of standard safety equipment: driver and passenger advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, four-wheel Antilock Brake System (ABS), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Traction Control System (TCS) and Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) also come standard on all models.

Source: Kia

March 8, 2013

Kia Optima Hybrid Project Superman Shown in Chicago

Kia Optima Hybrid Project Superman is a result of the creative efforts of three companies: Kia, DC Entertainment and Super Streetmagazine. The head-turning Optima Hybrid was just unveiled and is created in order to signal the continuation of a 10-month, eight-vehicle-partnership between Kia and DC Entertainment. Those eight vehicles are going to be based on the iconic characters that make up the Justice League – Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg.

The final vehicle will be mixture of all seven Super Heroes in one. Justice League-inspired Kia vehicles serve as a force for good in the world by raising awareness of DC Entertainment’s “We Can Be Heroes” giving campaign. The latter is a relief effort to bring help and hope to people affected by drought and famine in the Horn of Africa.

This one-of-a-kind Superman inspired Kia represents the strength and fortitude of the world’s most iconic Super Hero. In order to do that, the car was widened with custom fenders, which makes it now even more muscular. In addition it includes an adjustable suspension system that can raise and lower the vehicle with the push of a button.

The exterior color-theme of the vehicle strikes immediately: a stylized color scheme on the hood spotlights Superman’s unmistakable chest emblem while an eye-catching red paint design extends to the trunk, evoking the look of his crimson cape. The beveled front grille is there to remind us of Superman’s belt, and the red headlights glow with the same intensity of his heat vision.

Next, the interior of this Optima is wrapped in custom materials chosen for their unique appearance and texture. Again they reflect Superman’s impenetrable battle armor. The iconic “S” shield is integrated into the seats and steering wheel to give it the right heroic touch.

As Kia’s sales have grown, so has the company’s role as a responsible corporate citizen, and the Superman-themed Optima furthers those efforts with two video screens in the front-seat headrests that will raise awareness about the worst hunger crisis in 60 years by featuring a custom “We Can Be Heroes” video that demonstrates how one small act can make anyone a hero.

Source: Kia

February 8, 2013

2012 Kia Optima Batmobile Revealed at DC Special Event [VIDEO]

2012 Kia Optima Batmobile is a product of the cooperation between Kia Motors America (KMA), DC Entertainment and RIDES magazine. The result is this one-of-a-kind brooding Batman-inspired Optima.

This special Kia was influenced by the artistry of the comic book icon, Jim Lee. In fact, this product is part of the giving campaign of DC Entertainment “We Can Be Heroes” which aims to fight hunger in the Horn of Africa.

The unique style is due to the base model of Optima SX Limited, which was transformed and turned into dark and mysterious vehicle. And as a true Batmobile it has the inherent cutting-edge technology and premium amenities in its sleek, aggressive design customized with several unique Batman elements.

The team – Kia, DC Entertainment and RIDES magazine, designed and built the Batman-themed Optima, starting first with the exterior. They have applied matte- and piano-black paint scheme. In addition, there’s also featured a dramatically lowered coilover suspension and muscular ground effects kit, huge Ksport performance brakes for extreme stopping power, custom-designed 20-inch black wheels and a performance exhaust system.

Some other modification highlights of the outer look of the Optima is the custom front grille (shaped like a batwing of course) which was created for over 40 hours, the yellow LED lighting accents throughout the vehicle and the iconic bat signal etched into the HID headlights.

What about the interior of this Batmobile. The first thing one sees of course is the Batman-emblem on the seats. In fact, the seating surfaces are costumed in custom black leather and suede with bold yellow accent stitching.

And is more than sure that the villains will be caught just in time due to the 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injected engine this Optima hides below its bonnet. To be more precise – it generates 274 horsepower (202 kW) and achieves up to 22/34 mpg3 (city/hwy).

httpv://youtu.be/OKp8S7PH8IU

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Kia

October 12, 2012

2012 Kia Optima Hybrid

Kia has a lot of experience producing alternate fuel vehicles. The manufacturer has produced its first electric vehicle (EV) – based on the Besta van – as long ago as 1986, and an electric version of the Sportage in 1999.

At the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show, Kia revealed a petrol-electric hybrid version of the new Optima saloon, which is now on sale in both the USA and Korea. It is powered by a a 2.4-litre petrol engine and a 30kW (48 PS) electric motor driving through a hybrid-specific six-speed automatic gearbox. The combined power is 206PS (151 kW) 263Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque.

Optima Hybrid has lithium-ion polymer battery which is 30% lighter than the nickel-metal hydride systems in rivals, but has a higher energy density. It can accelerate to more than 60mph (96 km/h) on battery power alone.

Kia Optima Hybrid returns up to 44mpg – 6.4 litres per 100 km in city and 47mpg – 6.0 litres per 100 km on the highway. There are no apparent features that differentiate it from the Kia Optima except for a badge, different wheel discs and special Light Platinum Graphite paint color.

Four-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist System (BAS) and Hill Assist Control (HAC) are also standard.

2012 Kia Optima Hybrid is priced at $26 500.

Source: Kia

October 28, 2011

2011 Kia Optima Sedan US sales start

Kia Motor America has officially launched the sales of the all–new 2011 Kia Optima midsize sedan. (more…)

September 22, 2010

Kia Motors has teased its next-generation 2011 Magentis

Kia is continuing its car market assault with the presentation of the next-generation 2011 Kia Magentis, which will celebrate its grand debut at the New York International Auto Show on Friday 2 April 2010. (more…)

February 22, 2010

Tag: Optima