CAR drove the Kia Optima at the international launch in Dubai in 2010. Now almost two years later, it’s finally available in the South African market.
When it comes to styling, the Optima turns heads with its handsome appearance caby virtue of its bold family tiger-nose grille outlined in chrome, the BMW-like fender vents and sweeping headlamps. The newcomer strikes a swoopy coupé pose courtesy of its sloping roofline. The rear end is equally appealing with design cues that hint at the Audi A4 with the crease in the boot lid, tail-lamps that resemble those of the Maserati GT and an overall shape that conjures up images of Honda’s Accord.
Kia Optima models, performance and power
It’s a “one size fits all” type of car with only a single model and engine available. The 2,4-litre petrol unit that does duty in the Optima has a maximum output of 131 kW at 6 000 r/min and 231 N.m of torque at 4 000 r/min. It’s mated with a six-speed automatic transmission that helps propel the car to 100 km/h in 9,5 seconds and onto a potential top speed of 210 km/h. Kia claims that fuel consumption and CO2 emission figures stand at 8,7 litres/100 km and 207 g/km respectively.
Specification and safety
The specification on the new Kia Optima is, to say the least, extensive. It includes 18-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps, xenon headlamps, rear parking sensors, rain sensing wipers, solar UV-reflective glass, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, dual-zone climate control, an MP3, USB, iPod, auxiliary-compatible audio system, electrically adjustable and heated driver and passenger seats, cooled glove box, electric window and electric mirrors. And that’s not even the whole specification list.
Safety is enhanced by ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill assist, an array of airbags, keyless entry, Isofix anchorages and central locking.
The only option you are able to tick is the factory-fitted sunroof. This will take the R305 995 asking price of the Kia Optima to R315 995. This includes a five-year/90 000km service plan and five-year/100 000 warranty.