New Cars: Review of the new midsize Kia Optima

With all the up to date conveniences available in this vehicle, it can comfortably seat 5 adults. The seats are cloth covered, are comfortable and give good support. The back rest of the rear seat with its 60/40 folding capacity gives the Optima more flexibility. This new vehicle gives two choices for engines which can either have a manual gearbox which has 5 speeds or an automatic 4 speed. The two engines have a specification of a 145 bhp with 189Nm generating 2 liter 4 cylinder and the V6, 2.7 liter a 188 hp with 250Nm for those who want more power.

The facilities provided on this vehicle

This vehicle is fitted with a lot of equipment for the comfort of the passengers as well as driving comfort for the driver. There is a lot of storage space with large cargo area which has a capacity of 14.8 cu. Ft. when the seats are in place and a glove compartment which is lockable. For the passengers and drivers seat there are door bins and pockets. The storage area for the cargo is well lit up. There is extra storage space on the back of the front seat and a hatch release which has an electric remote control.

The vehicle has air-conditioning and the ventilation has a setting for recirculation and a micro filter. The seats in the front have a lighter for cigars and an ashtray too. Cup holders are fitted for the rear and front seats. There is entertainment onboard with an audio system which is manufactured by the company itself along with a CD player and AM/Fm radio and 6 speakers. The controls for the audio system are mounted on the steering wheel.

The lighting is in place to give further comfort to the driver and the passengers with lights which are delayed and fade, reading lights in the front and a passenger and driver mirror which is illuminated. Added driving comfort is provided on the dashboard with an indicator which is automatic, cruise control, a warning gauge for fuel level in case it is low and a clock. The steering wheel is made of plastic and is multi functional with an adjustment for the tilt and a telescopic adjustment too.

Safety equipment on this vehicle

There are air bags placed strategically for the safety and the passengers on board. The airbag for the driver’s seat has a multi stage operational for deployment, and the passenger seat airbag in the front has occupant sensors also with multi stage operational deployment. Airbags are also fitted on the rear and front of the roof and a side airbag for the front seats. There is a warning for the door being ajar and for tire pressure which is low.

Interior comfort

The load areas are carpeted and there are floor mats in the front and rear. The driver and passenger seats are bucket seats with adjustable height. While the front seat has two adjustable height functions for the head restraints, the rear has three of them for the passengers. There is an armrest for the front seats in the middle.

Technical specification:

Engine:
2.0 liter 4 cyl.; 2.7 liter V6

Power:
145 Bhp / 188 Bhp

Torque:
189 Nm / 250 Nm

Transmission: Both automatic and manual

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