Kia Optima road test
by Stephen Walker
24th April, 2015
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Kia's stylish mid-size sedan has been with us for a good few years now, so
it sure was well worth having another 'run' in this attractive car before the next generation model comes along later
this year.
The new model has a strong visual connection to the current model. And why wouldn't it? The Kia Optima has a very
dashing look - it's a long way from 'vanilla' in my opinion.
Test car particulars
Our Abyss Blue Kia Optima SLi is the mid-spec model in a three grade line-up. This version is priced from $36,490*.
Optima SLi features some leather trim, power operated driver's seat, satellite navigation, 18" alloy wheels and
automatic transmission as standard equipment.
Variants
Three grades are on offer - Si (from $31,490*), SLi (from $36,490*) and Platinum (from $40,990*).
Premium paint is optional on all models at $595*.
On the road in the Kia Optima
The first thing that I noticed with the Optima was the quite satisfying delivery of power. The medium sized Optima
gets along particularly well, yet it is powered by a four cylinder engine.
The driving dynamics, smoothness and quietness demonstrate that this car is bound to please many more folks than just
me. The comfort provided by the Optima SLi is particularly pleasing.
The cruise control is user friendly and you can 'fold' the exterior mirrors
inwards if neccessary.
Connectivity and infotainment
Standard: MP3 compatible CD player with AM/FM tuner; 6 speakers (front door, rear door & front tweeters); Premium
sound system (Infinity brand); Satellite navigation multimedia system with traffic information (SUNA™); 7" full touch
colour LCD screen; AUX/USB input with iPod compatibility (on selected iPod models); and Bluetooth functionality
(phone/media stream) for compatible devices.
Specifications
The Kia Optima is a 5-seater front-wheel drive sedan that has a 2.4 litre four cylinder engine which provides 148kW of
power at 6,300rpm and maximum torque of 250Nm at 4,250rpm. Transmission is a six-speed automatic.
Four-wheel disc brakes and power steering are standard. The steering wheel features fou-way manual adjustment.
Fuel
The factory indicate the fuel consumption rating for the petrol-engined Kia Optima is 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres on
the combined cycle.
As a matter of interest, the urban cycle is rated at 11.2 litres/100km and the extra urban cycle has a rating of 6.0
litres/100km.
The fuel tank capacity is 70 litres. Regular unleaded petrol is suitable for Optima and it's E10 compatible.
Safety
Optima comes with a five star ANCAP crash test rating. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD & BA; ESC (Electronic
Stability Control) with TCS are standard, as is a reversing camera. There are six airbags.
Dimensions
Length: 4,845 mm
Width: 1,830 mm
Height: 1,455 mm
Wheelbase: 2,795 mm
Luggage capacity: 437 litres
Kerb weight: 1,591 kg (approx).
After Sales
Have a close look at Kia's 'after sales' package. It is outstanding!
The warranty period is for seven years! That's right, seven years. And there is no mileage limit. Some vehicle uses
are excluded from this particular warranty feature - but vehicles used solely for private purposes are covered!
Conditions apply, of course. The warranty can be transferred to subsequent owners in the warranty period (again,
conditions apply).
Capped price servicing is part of the deal - for seven years too (conditions apply).
Roadside assistance is in the package for 1 year from the date of the car's first registration. It is renewed when
servicing is undertaken by a Kia dealer in compliance with the log book recommendations (conditions apply).
Conclusion
A larger mid-size car is a good option for many people.
With the Kia Optima SLi a very pleasing car is on offer. I found that the Optima SLi is a comfortable car with quite
good ride qualities and the driving dynamics are suitable for this type of car with the performance bordering on sporty.
There is good space available in both the cabin and luggage compartment.
Ahead of the release of the next generation Kia Optima, the current model demonstrates that this car is well worthy of
consideration by those not wanting the same car as everyone else.
NOTE: * Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) excludes dealer delivery
fees and the numerous statutory charges (commonly known as on-road costs). Additionally, please note that all prices,
fees and charges are subject to change without notice, as are the specifications.
E&OE
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