2011 Kia Optima Review

Overview

Kia has redesigned its popular midsize sedan Optima for the 2011 model year with three new powertrains ? including the brand?s first-ever hybrid in the U.S. ? which deliver class-leading power and fuel economy while the latest technology features and luxury amenities available at the touch of a button or a simple voice command. The all-new 2011 Kia Optima is available in three trims - LX, EX and SX.

Power and performance

The Optima is powered by three all-new and fuel-efficient Theta II powerplants - a 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter GDI turbo engine or a 2.4-liter hybrid. The 2.4-liter GDI engine has been rated at 200 horsepower and upgrading to the available 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine (SX model) delivers V6-type power with a four-cylinder engine that produces 274 horsepower, while mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. This is Kia?s first application of GDI technology and a 2.4-liter hybrid Optima will also be introduced. All automatics feature Sportmatic clutchless shifting. A single six-speed manual transmission is available only with the LX four-cylinder model.

Body and styling

The base LX is equipped with chrome tips, solar glass, outside mirror turn signal indicators, 16-inch steel wheels, satellite radio, a USB audio input jack, Bluetooth, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, power accessories and an air-conditioned glove box. The EX comes with standard fog lights, heated outside mirrors, exterior chrome/body-color door handles along with 17-inch alloy wheels, Kia's UVO voice recognition system, a rearview camera, keyless entry/ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control and a power driver seat. The top of the line SX gets HID headlights with auto leveling, LED rear combination lights, unique front grille design, rear lip spoiler, sculpted side sills, aero wiper blades, red brake calipers and 18-inch black machined finish alloy wheels, leather upholstery and upgraded interior trim and gauges among other cosmetic improvements.

Safety Features

The 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with numerous standard safety features including six airbags, front active headrests, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Four-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS), a Brake Assist System (BAS) and Hill Assist Control (HAC) also are standard.