The mid-sized four door sedan model from Kia Motors was first introduced in the model year 2000 and it is marketed worldwide using different nameplates. The Optima in European market is called as Magentis, while it is called as Lotze in South Korean market.
Kia Optima
The base Kia Optima appears almost similar to the Hyundai Sonata, but later the exterior styling and finishing of the model were changed. It is one of the best selling four door sedans in American market.
First Generation (2000-2005)
The key features in the first generation model are its superior ride quality and instrument controls. On the other hand, rear seat room comfort and automatic transmission performance are considered as potential black marks. It is offered in front wheel drive.
2002 Kia Optima
The mid-sized sedan model has the seating capacity to accommodate up to 5-passengers. For 2000, it is offered in two trim versions, the base model LX and up-level SE. The standard engine to the model include 2.5 liter V6 version that comes mated with automatic transmission.
As far as the exterior dimensions of the Kia Optima model are concerned, it has the wheel base of 106.3 inches. The length, width and height of the model are 186.2 inches, 71.7 inches and 55.5 inches respectively. The curb weight of the model is around 3157 lbs. The fuel tank has the capacity to fill up to 17.2 gallons.
Second Generation (2005-present)
The Kia Optima is totally redesigned for 2005, gaining more powerful engine, new features and various trims. It is offered in three trim versions, LX, EX and SX.
The major competitors to the current generation model include Nissan Maxima, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 6, and Mitsubishi Galant. The exterior dimensions of the model have been increased, wheel base by one inch, length by 3 inches and height by 3.5 inches. Though the dimensions of the model have been extended, the overall weight of the model remained same. Apart from wider exteriors, the interior region also offers adequate room for both head and shoulder. It also offers sufficient room for leg too.
2009 Kia Optima
The standard engine to the model include 2.4 liter DOHC I4 version that delivers 175 hp at 6000 rpm and torque of 169 lb ft at 4000 rpm. The other engine available include 2.7 liter V6 that produces 194 hp of power at 6000 rpm and torque of 184 lb ft at 4500 rpm. Both the engines can be mated to either 5-speed manual or automatic transmissions. With the V6 engine, the sedan model can achieve fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city premises and 32 mpg on the highway roads.