Refreshing doesn't begin to describe the 2011 Kia Optima. It goes above and beyond what anyone may have hoped for. Kia hasn't been exactly "creative" in the past, but this is a giant leap in the right direction. As one of the fastest growing car brands, they have to be doing something right; and vehicles like the new Optima is that something.
The exterior of the new Optima makes you do a double take; no matter what angle you might be looking from. The blacked out grille and lower front fascia give it a much sportier appearance. The HID headlamps add a sense of luxury to the already pleasing design. From the side, it looks muscular and almost has a coupe like appearance. You will immediately notice the 18 wheels from the sides also. While looking great, the wheels have their own downfall. Any harsh potholes or rocks flying about will easily scratch the surface, making them look worn a lot faster. The rear seems to be the most refined part of the exterior; with angular LED tail lamps (which look stunning, both day and night) and dual exhaust integrated into the bumper. Love at first sight? Maybe.
Moving to the interior, we also find unexpected niceties from Kia. Once in the driver seat, you will notice the cockpit design, which for this segment is different and inviting. Nicely appointed surfaces are all around, including a stitched dash, carbon fiber (look) trim, and comfortable yet sporty seats with a mix of black leather and white cloth stitching. A new gauge cluster in the SX adds a 4.3 color display that will show different vehicle settings and diagnostics. The steering wheel is loaded with buttons that make keeping your eyes on the road much easier. It also has paddle shifters for the 6 speed gear box when switched into manual mode. Adding to the ease of use are many high-tech features including navigation, iPod/Aux input, driver seat memory, keyless entry, push button start, and a premium Infinity sound system. Any driver should be happy with all of the technology available.
The passengers will also enjoy the ride along. The driver and front passenger get heated and cooled seats. The rear passengers will also be pleased to hear that their seats are also heated. The panoramic glass roof will wow many and is a welcome option to the segment.
Now, for the ride itself; its good, but could be better. Wind and road noise become noticeable when traveling at faster speeds. Also, with the SXs sport tuned suspension, you will get a ride that is a bit harsh when compared to the softer riding Camry, Accord, and even the Optima EX. The cabin is definitely a step up, but not completely on par with the competition.
Finally, we talk about whats under the hood. A 4-Cylinder, 2.0 liter turbo, direct injection engine is front and center on the SX. It offers 274 hp/269 ft. lbs. torque, which is enough to please almost any driver, including those longing for a V6. With this engine you will get an estimated 22/34 (city/highway) MPG. An available ECO mode will help keep you in that MPG range by managing the engine in a very ECOnomical way. Some SX drivers will see a decrease in fuel economy if they take advantage of the sport available to them.
All Optimas are FWD, and for many vehicles, this creates quite a bit of torque steer. Not here. The Optima is stout, even when pushing it to red-line. Another issue some consumers might have is with turbo lag. Like torque steer, turbo lag is not a problem with the SX. Kia has tuned the engine so you get power right when you need with minimal change. The SX offers great handling and its fun to drive.
Overall, the 2011 Optima is an excellent contender among the midsize segment. Setting it apart are its bold styling, interior quality, high-tech features, and a powerful, yet efficient engine. When youre in the market for a new vehicle, definitely give the new Optima a chance. You might be pleasantly surprised. Mixed reviews may come from all around, but this Optima is definitely a game changer.
...more
Styling, technology, and power. Most car for the money in this segment!
Wheel rims are easily abused. Ride quality could be better. Fuel efficiency will vary from estimates.
Refreshing doesn't begin to describe the 2011 Kia Optima. It goes above and beyond what anyone may have hoped for. Kia hasn't been exactly "creative" in the past, but this is a giant leap in the right direction. As one of the fastest growing car brands, they have to be doing something right; and vehicles like the new Optima is that something.
The exterior of the new Optima makes you do a double take; no matter what angle you might be looking from. The blacked out grille and lower front fascia give it a much sportier appearance. The HID headlamps add a sense of luxury to the already pleasing design. From the side, it looks muscular and almost has a coupe like appearance. You will immediately notice the 18 wheels from the sides also. While looking great, the wheels have their own downfall. Any harsh potholes or rocks flying about will easily scratch the surface, making them look worn a lot faster. The rear seems to be the most refined part of the exterior; with angular LED tail lamps (which look stunning, both day and night) and dual exhaust integrated into the bumper. Love at first sight? Maybe.
Moving to the interior, we also find unexpected niceties from Kia. Once in the driver seat, you will notice the cockpit design, which for this segment is different and inviting. Nicely appointed surfaces are all around, including a stitched dash, carbon fiber (look) trim, and comfortable yet sporty seats with a mix of black leather and white cloth stitching. A new gauge cluster in the SX adds a 4.3 color display that will show different vehicle settings and diagnostics. The steering wheel is loaded with buttons that make keeping your eyes on the road much easier. It also has paddle shifters for the 6 speed gear box when switched into manual mode. Adding to the ease of use is the optional navigation system. Its clean, simple, and very intuitive. An iPod and Aux jack is standard and integrates well with the navigation system. Any driver should be happy with all of the technology available.
The passengers will also enjoy the ride along with you. The driver and front passenger get heated and cooled seats. The rear passengers will also be pleased to hear that their seats are also heated. The panoramic glass roof will wow many and is a welcome option to the segment.
Now, for the ride itself; its good, but could be better. Wind and road noise become noticeable when traveling at faster speeds. Also, with the SXs sport tuned suspension, you will get a ride that is a bit harsh when compared to the softer riding Camry, Accord, and even the Optima EX. The cabin is definitely a step up, but not completely on par with the competition.
Finally, we talk about whats under the hood. A 4-Cylinder, 2.0 liter, direct injection engine is front and center on the SX. It offers 274 hp/269 ft. lbs. torque, which is enough to please almost any driver, including those longing for a V6. With this engine you will get an estimated 22/34 (city/highway) MPG. An available ECO mode will help keep you in that MPG range by managing the engine in a very ECOnomical way. Some SX drivers will see a decrease in fuel economy if they take advantage of the sport available to them.
All Optimas are FWD, and for many vehicles, this creates quite a bit of torque steer. Not here. The Optima is stout, even when pushing it to red-line. Another issue some consumers might have is with turbo lag. Like torque steer, turbo lag is not a problem with the SX. Kia has tuned the engine so you get power right when you need with minimal change. The SX offers great handling and its fun to drive.
Overall, the 2011 Optima is an excellent contender among the midsize segment. Setting it apart are its bold styling, interior quality, high-tech features, and a powerful, yet efficient engine. When youre in the market for a new vehicle, definitely give the new Optima a chance. You might be pleasantly surprised. Mixed reviews may come from all around, but this Optima is definitely a game changer.
...more
Styling, technology, and power. Most car for the money in this segment!
Wheel rims are easily abused. Ride quality could be better. MPG will vary from estimates.
Styling, technology, and power. Most car for the money in this segment!
Wheel rims are easily abused. Ride quality could be better. Fuel efficiency will vary from estimates.
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