Showing posts with label Optima. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Optima. Show all posts
2011 Kia Optima Earns an Edmunds' InsideLine.com Editors' Most Wanted Award

Our friends over at Edmunds' InsideLine.com recently named the new 2011 Kia Optima as an "Editors' Most Wanted" Award winner. The Optima was one of six vehicles to receive the accolade and the only mid-size sedan to be honoured.
The 2011 Kia Optima has been receiving much adulation from the media since its unveiling and the editors of Inside Line were no different, praising the car for its "comfortable cabin, excellent mileage and plenty of features." In the review of the vehicle, Inside Line called the Optima "an affordable family car that looks, feels and drives a class higher."
The other five cars that received the recognition were the Cadillac CTS-V Wagon, Ford F-150 SVT Raptor, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Honda Odyssey, and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG (which also won the 'Instant Classic' award).
"The Edmunds' Inside Line 'Editors' Most Wanted(SM)' Award winners are chosen for one simple reason: They're the cars, trucks, and vans that we like the best," said Ed Hellwig, Editor of InsideLine.com. "'Editors' Most Wanted' winners are the cars that we remember the most even after hundreds of test drives. These are cars that we'd buy for ourselves and highly recommend to our friends and family."
The Edmunds' InsideLine.com "Editors' Most Wanted(SM)" Awards are awarded annually to six vehicles based on the votes of 11 Edmunds' Inside Line editors. Every car and truck for sale in the United States is eligible for the "Editors' Most Wanted" award if tested by Edmunds' Inside Line by December 1st.
[Source: Edmunds.com/Image Source: Edmunds-Inside Line]
Kia Goes Full Force with Marketing for 2011 Optima

The Times Square billboard is expected to be seen by more than 1 million people every day. According to Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing and communications, "The Optima has been turning heads since its unveiling earlier this year, and its striking good looks will be right at home under the bright lights of Times Square beginning on New Year's Eve and continuing well into 2011."
[Source: Kia]
2011 Kia Optima Hybrid Unveiled: LA 2010

Kia has unveiled the 2011 Optima Hybrid at the Los Angeles Auto Show recently.
Created specifically for the U.S. market, the car features a full parallel hybrid system which consists of a 168 PS (124 kW / 166 hp) 2.4-liter petrol engine and a 30 kW (41 PS / 40 hp) electric motor. All told, the two can work together to produce a combined 209 PS (154 kW / 206 hp) and 265 Nm (194 lb-ft) of torque.
This enables the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 9.2 seconds and hit a top speed of 121 mph (195 km/h). More importantly, fuel consumption is expected to be 36 mpg city / 40 mpg highway (US).
To get these impressive features, Kia engineers optimized the petrol engine and installed a 34 kW lithium-ion battery which enables the hybrid to operate in EV mode at speeds up to 100 km/h (62 mph).
On the styling front, the Hybrid is distinguished by a reduced ride height (lowered 5mm), a revised grille, and unique 16-inch alloy wheels with low-rolling resistance tires.
No word on pricing, but look for the Optima Hybrid to start arriving at U.S. dealerships early next year.











2011 Kia Optima: Hi-Res Image Gallery (New Images!)

CLICK HERE for our comprehensive post on the 2011 Kia Optima!
READ MORE for more hi-res images of the 2011 Kia Optima!









2011 Kia Optima Officially Launched in the US

PRESS RELEASE: ALL–NEW 2011 KIA OPTIMA CRUISES DOWN THE CALIFORNIA COAST
Midsize Sedan Offers High Level of Style and Performance Features
- Three all–new powertrains, including turbo and Kia's first–ever hybrid offer increase in power and fuel economy
- Long list of premium amenities and technology features
IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 21, 2010 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today officially launched the all–new 2011 Optima midsize sedan, first seen during the 2010 New York International Auto Show. Set to arrive in retail showrooms in early fall, the next generation Optima continues Kia's design–led transformation while revealing a completely new and stunning design language for Kia, highlighted by a dynamic and streamlined profile that conveys elegance and athletic confidence from every angle. Optima's groundbreaking spirit continues under the hood and inside the cabin with the introduction of three new powertrains – including the brand's first–ever hybrid in the U.S. (available in 2011) – which is expected to deliver an increase in power and fuel economy while offering the latest technology features and luxury amenities.

The all–new Optima also employs engine management systems like direct injection and turbocharging to help bring performance to the brand without sacrificing fuel efficiency. Its smooth–flowing lines speak of grace and style and offer a strong hint of European luxury...
READ MORE for the full official press release, complete with specs and equipment details!
[Source: Kia Motors America]
For hi-res images of the 2011 Kia Optima, CLICK HERE.
Sleek and Streamlined Exterior
The 2011 Optima projects a high–performance yet elegant image with its unique silhouette and sleek stance that builds upon Kia Motors' philosophy of creating high quality and dynamic vehicles that evoke passion. The striking face of Optima features Kia's signature bold tabbed grille that is surrounded by projector headlamps. Longer, wider and lower than before, Optima's coupe–like profile is enhanced by a sweeping chrome arc that flows from the A through C pillars, a distinctive design motif that visually lowers the car further and enhances its proportions. Optima's roofline connects with its high and pronounced shoulder line that leads to its sculpted flanks and extended wheelbase. Boldly flared wheel arches and a raked cabin create a sedan with a graceful muscular stance.
Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, the 2011 Optima offers numerous standard features. The LX includes dual exhaust with chrome tips, solar glass, outside mirror turn signal indicators and 16–inch steel wheels fitted with 205/65R16 tires. Upgrading to the EX offers standard fog lights, heated outside mirrors, exterior chrome/body–color door handles along with 17–inch alloy wheels with P215/55/R17 tires, while the EX Turbo adds a unique front grille design. Moving up to the athletic SX adds HID headlights with auto leveling, LED rear combination lights, unique front grille design, rear lip spoiler, sculpted side sills, aero wiper blades, black front brake calipers and 18–inch black machined finish alloy wheels furnished with P225/45R18 tires, achieving a true performance look.
For hi-res images of the 2011 Kia Optima, CLICK HERE.
Luxuriously Equipped Interior
From the moment the door opens, Optima presents an immediate sense of a driver's car. The instrument panel is contoured toward the driver to suggest a cockpit feel with precise gauges and controls for an overall sport performance experience without sacrificing comfort or roominess. Paddle shifters behind the steering wheel convey that Optima is built for people who are passionate about cars. A high console with a short shifter adds to the cockpit perception while an available panoramic sunroof provides an open–air feeling. Offering occupants both space and comfort with a number of standard convenience features, the sedan's chic cabin unifies with the exterior design by welcoming its passengers with lean and ergonomic seat design and effective storage throughout. Modern standard features such as a six–way adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support, illuminated vanity mirrors with a ticket holder and a trip computer further expand the cabin's luxurious qualities.
In addition to offering a comfortable cabin, impressive technology features also come standard throughout, including an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system with SIRIUS® Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service1 . Also standard on all trims are auxiliary and USB audio input jacks for connecting with MP3 players2 and Bluetooth®3 wireless technology connectivity with steering wheel–mounted voice activation controls to enable hands–free operation for compatible mobile phones.
Additional standard interior features include a tilt/telescopic steering column, power door locks, power windows, sun visor extension and a cooling glove box. Stylishly appointed cloth seats provide comfortable seating while a 60/40 split–folding rear seat offers multiple seating and cargo arrangements depending on driver and passenger needs. Optima LX with automatic transmission features cruise control and an active system for optimal fuel efficient driving.
Optima EX comes well–equipped and offers premium standard features, including the UVO powered by Microsoft®4 hands–free in–car entertainment and communication system (expected to be available in select Kia models in the U.S. later this year) with rear–view camera, push button–start ignition with smart key, dual–zone automatic air conditioning with rear vents, a leather–wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, auto–dimming rear view mirror with Homelink®5 and compass, auto light control, driver and front passenger automatic window up/down and an eight–way power driver's seat, illuminated glovebox, rear reading lamps, floor mats and chrome door handles. Moving to the EX Turbo also adds wood interior trim with metal accents for a more luxurious feel.
For consumers looking for even more sporty appeal, the Optima SX adds unique black leather woven seat trim, black interior trim with carbon insert film, Supervisionâ„¢ meter cluster with LCD display, center fascia and meter housing, soft trim with French seams, steering wheel paddle shifters, metal pedals and lighted metal door scuff plates.
For those who seek the latest superior quality technology and convenience features for a modern and comfortable driving experience, the 2011 Optima offers a multitude of packages for each trim. The Convenience Package (LX A/T only), offers an eight–way power–adjustable driver's seat and auto–dimming rear view mirror with Homelink®, while the LX Technology Package (with Convenience Package) adds the navigation system with back–up camera, an eight–speaker Infinity®6 premium audio system and dual–zone automatic temperature control with rear ventilation.
Moving to the already well–equipped EX trim consumers can opt for the Premium Package, which adds the panoramic sunroof with high–gloss B–pillar, four–way power–adjustable driver's seat with driver's seat memory, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, wood interior trim and center console and metal–finished shifter. The EX Technology Package (with Premium Package) adds the navigation system with back–up camera and eight–speaker Infinity premium audio system.
All–New Advanced Platform
The 2011 Optima is distinctive, right down to its all–new platform. Optima's low, lean and powerful stance is assisted through its overall length of 190.7 inches, an increase of 1.7 inches over the previous model. Optima is built on a platform with an overall width of 72.1 inches and wheelbase of 110 inches, an increase of 2.9 inches, and has a low ground clearance of 5.3 inches for enhanced aerodynamics. Optima's lightweight design uses high–tensile–strength steel to enhance structural strength while also achieving high torsional stiffness, benefiting handling, ride quality and refinement. Additional measures to help ensure good noise vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities are fitted throughout the Optima.
Built on a unibody frame, the front–wheel–drive Optima utilizes independent front and rear suspension systems. MacPherson struts are used in the front with a multi–link layout in the rear and are both joined with coil springs and front anti–roll bars to engage drivers with responsive handling and provide the utmost comfort whether the road is smooth or less than ideal.
Class–Leading Efficient and Powerful Engines
The 2011 Optima is available in three all–new and fuel–efficient Theta II powerplants, a 2.4–liter GDI four–cylinder, a 2.0–liter GDI turbo or a 2.4–liter hybrid engine. The 2.4–liter GDI engine produces 200 horsepower7 and upgrading to the available 2.0–liter turbo GDI engine (EX Turbo and SX models) delivers V6–type power with a four–cylinder engine that produces 274 horsepower, while mated to a six–speed automatic transmission. This represents Kia's first application of GDI technology, while a 2.4–liter hybrid Optima will be introduced in 2011. All automatics feature Sportmatic® clutchless shifting. A single six–speed manual transmission is available only with the LX four–cylinder model.
In addition to impressive performance, both engines also offer consumer–friendly fuel economy. The 2.4–liter four–cylinder posts 24/35 mpg (city/highway) when mated to the manual transmission and 24/34 mpg when coupled with the automatic transmission, while the 2.0–liter turbo GDI offers 22/34 mpg, only available with the automatic transmission.
Safety–Minded
The 2011 Optima is equipped with a high level of standard safety features, as is the rest of the Kia line–up. This includes six airbags (dual advanced front and front–seat mounted side as well as full–length side curtain), front active headrests, side–impact door beams, height–adjustable front seatbelts with pre–tensioners, 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.
Competitive Warranty
The 2011 Optima is covered by KMA's warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10–year/100,000–mile limited powertrain warranty, a five–year/60,000–mile limited basic warranty and a five–year/100,000–mile anti–perforation warranty. A five–year/60,000–mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the vehicle coverage.
Kia Motors America in 2010
Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design–led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. With three new vehicle introductions and several other key initiatives planned for 2010, Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and with new technology such as the UVO powered by Microsoft® advanced hands–free in–car communication and entertainment system (expected to be available in select Kia models in the U.S. later this year). The launches of the all–new 2011 Sorento CUV, the first vehicle to be assembled8 at Kia's first U.S.–based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, and all–new 2011 Sportage compact CUV, further enhance the lineup, and are both available in retail showrooms.
About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 700 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."
Kia Motors America is the “Official Automotive Partner of the NBA.” Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line–up is available at its Web site – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.
Kia Considering a Magentis Estate for Europe
Unveiled for the first time at the New York International Auto Show in April, the new mid-size sedan from Kia will drop the "Magentis" moniker for the European market, according to Kia. In South Korea, the car is called "K5" while in North America, it is known as "Optima".
A Kia source revealed that an estate version of the car will be built. When asked about this body style, chief designer Peter Schreyer said, “I would love to do station wagon and coupé versions of the car. The station wagon would only really work for Europe but the coupé would work in the US.”
[Source: Autocar.co.uk]
New York 2010: Kia Unveils All-New 2011 Optima
PRESS RELEASE: KIA MOTORS DEBUTS ALL-NEW 2011 OPTIMA AT NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
Midsize Sedan Offers a New Level of Style and Performance Features from Kia
NEW YORK, April 1, 2010 — Kia Motors America (KMA) today globally unveiled the all-new 2011 Optima midsize sedan at the New York International Auto Show. Arriving in showrooms in early fall, the next generation Optima continues Kia’s design-led transformation while revealing a completely new and stunning design language for Kia, highlighted by a dynamic and streamlined profile that conveys elegance and athletic confidence from every angle. Optima’s groundbreaking spirit continues under the hood and inside the cabin with the introduction of three new powertrains — including the brand’s first-ever hybrid in the U.S. (available in 2011) — which deliver class-leading power and fuel economy while the latest technology features and luxury amenities are available at the touch of a button or a simple voice command.

“The all-new Optima is a new strand in Kia’s growing design DNA with a blend of simple and fluid lines and elegant but uncomplicated shapes that draw the attention of the eye in much the same fashion as a perfectly-tailored fine Italian suit,” said Peter Schreyer, chief design officer, Kia Motors Corporation. “From the distinctive sweeping chrome accent that stretches through the C pillars to the sleek greenhouse and flared wheel arches, every inch of the Optima projects a distinguished and refined style and extreme attention to detail.”
Continue reading to view the full press release and more hi-res images.

Sleek and Streamlined Exterior



Luxuriously Equipped Interior

In addition to offering a comfortable cabin, impressive technology features also come standard throughout, including an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system with SIRIUS® Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service2. Also standard on all trims are auxiliary and USB audio input jacks for connecting with MP3 players and Bluetooth®3 wireless technology connectivity with steering wheel-mounted voice activation controls to enable hands-free operation for compatible mobile phones.

Optima EX comes well-equipped and offers premium standard features, including the UVO powered by Microsoft®4 infotainment system with rear-view camera, push button-start ignition with smart key, dual-zone automatic air conditioning with rear vents, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, auto-dimming rear view mirror with Homelink®5 and compass, auto light control, driver and front passenger automatic window up/down and eight-way power driver’s seat, lighted glovebox, rear reading lamps, floor mats and chrome door handles.
For consumers looking for even more sporty appeal, the Optima SX adds unique black leather woven seat trim, black interior trim with carbon insert film and metal accent, Supervision™ meter cluster with LCD display, center fascia and meter housing, soft trim with French seams, steering wheel paddle shifters, metal pedals and lighted metal door scuff plates.
Available upgrades for the Optima EX and SX trims include a power panoramic sunroof, leather seat trim, memory driver’s seat, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel for additional interior refinement. Luxuriously appointed features, including an Infinity®6 5.1 surround sound audio system with HD Radio®, and eight speakers delivering in excess of 500-watts of system power and voice-activated navigation system with a seven-inch screen enhance the cabin for audiophiles or those who seek the latest superior quality technology for a modern driving experience.
All-New Advanced Platform
The 2011 Optima is distinctive, right down to its all-new platform. Optima’s low, lean and powerful stance is assisted through its overall length of 190.7 inches, an increase of 1.7 inches over the previous model. Optima is built on a platform with an overall width of 72 inches and wheelbase of 110 inches, an increase of 2.9 inches, and has a low ground clearance of 5.3 inches for enhanced aerodynamics. Optima’s lightweight design uses high-tensile-strength steel to enhance structural strength while also achieving high torsional stiffness, benefiting handling, ride quality and refinement. Additional measures to help ensure good noise vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities are fitted throughout the Optima.
Built on a unibody frame, the front-wheel-drive Optima utilizes independent front and rear suspension systems. MacPherson struts are used in the front with a multi-link layout in the rear and are both joined with coil springs and front anti-roll bars to engage drivers with responsive handling and provide the utmost comfort whether the road is smooth or less than ideal.
Class-Leading Efficient and Powerful Engines

Safety-Minded
The 2011 Optima is equipped with a high level of standard safety features, as is the rest of the Kia line-up. This includes six airbags (dual advanced front and front-seat mounted side as well as full-length side curtain), front active headrests, side-impact door beams, height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, 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.
Competitive Warranty
The 2011 Optima is covered by Kia’s warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the vehicle coverage.
Kia Motors America in 2010
Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand’s continued gains in U.S. market share. With three new vehicle introductions and several other key initiatives planned for 2010, Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and with new technology such as the UVO powered by Microsoft® advanced hands-free in-car communication and entertainment system (to be available in select Kia models in the U.S. beginning in summer 2010). The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be assembled8 at Kia’s first U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, further enhances the lineup, and is now in dealerships.
About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline “The Power to Surprise.”
Kia Motors America is the “Official Automotive Partner of the NBA.” Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.



Kia releases first "K5" images ahead of New York debut - UPDATE

From the pictures we see the latest take on Kia's “tiger” front end complete with LED accent strip above the fog lights. Livening up things more is a coupe-like profile, higher and more pronounced shoulder lines, flared wheel arches and front fender vents.
In addition to a more-stylish wrapper, the new Optima will grow some from the current model with an extended wheelbase. Sales begin this fall.
[Source: Kia]
Continue reading to view more images.
Spied: 2011 Kia K5 (Magentis) Caught on Streets Undisguised!
Sent in by a reader named Sanghoon from Korea, we have the first images of the all-new Kia K5 mid-size sedan (Magentis/Optima in other markets) prowling the public roads sans camouflage. The particular model in these images appears to be the base model, as indicated by the 16-inch alloy wheels. Has a base model of any mid-size car looked this good? Feel free to tell us in the comments below.
Information Article on the K5 (Magentis/Optima) HERE.
Continue reading to view more images.
Spied: 2011 Kia Optima/K5 (TF)
Scheduled to make its Korean debut in April 2010, the upcoming Optima/K5 (code-named "TF") will be a complete redesign. As indicated by spy shots, Schreyer's latest work will also be substantially larger compared to the current model.
Stylistically, the K5 is a stunning departure from the mundane style of the generation it will replace. The front end will feature Kia's sleek corporate fascia(for reference, see the new Sorento and Forte) incarnated by Peter Schreyer. As evident in a close-up shot, the K5 will also be available with LED headlights in the Korean market. The side profile is highlighted by a sweeping chrome window sill that extends to the trunk lid. The rear-end will ostensibly resemble the K7/Cadenza.
As of now, we have no confirmed details on what engines will be available for the new K5. The 2.4L Theta II 4-cylinder will certainly be one offering, as well as the 2.4L GDI (gasoline direct injection) 4-cylinder with an output of 201 horsepower. In addition, we expect an array of diesel and LPI engines to be offered in various markets. The North American model will likely be available with a 3.5L Lambda II V6 as well.
Stay tuned for more information and spy shots in future posts.
Continue reading to view more spy shots of the K5.
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