About Kia Optima
The Kia Optima was a modified version of the Hyundai Sonata. They differ only in appearance and minor equipment details. It was launched in South Korea in July 2000. It was the first product of the Kia-Hyundai platform integration program. In Australia, the Kia Optima was launched in May 2001. It was offered only with a V6 engine and manual or automatic transmission. The redesigned Kia Optima has a new engine and a four-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission is no longer offered. It comes with leather upholstery and alloy wheels as standard. Thanks to improved marketing, sales reached a record 41,289 units in 2005.
The Kia Optima was sold until 2006. It was replaced by the Magentis. The second-generation Kia Optima is known worldwide as Kia Magentis, except in the United States and Malaysia. In South Korea, it is known as Kia Lotze. It was launched in South Korea in November 2005. This generation is more different from the previous model. It spawned the Hyundai Sonata. Unlike the previous model, this car uses MG's global platform. The car is still manufactured in South Korea. It shares a four-cylinder engine with the Sonata and has either a five-speed Sportmatic automatic transmission or a five-speed manual transmission. The new Theta II I4 engine has a dual CVVT gearbox and a variable air intake system that provides more power.
Kia Optima parts online
Fuel consumption has been improved compared to the previous model. The I4 engine is available with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission in other markets. Production of the V6 engine and EX-L model was discontinued in 2008. And in 2009, only the base EX model was available. Although the updated 2010 model was never officially introduced, a very small number were imported for evaluation. And then they were sold to the public as show cars. Like the Hyundai Sonata, the Optima features a versatile GDI four-cylinder engine. It is mated to either a six-speed Eco-labeled automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission, standard only on the LX model. Sales begin in the fall of 2010.
The new model was introduced in South Korea on April 29, 2010. The new Optima will continue to be offered in the following trim levels: LX, EX, and SX. Safety features such as ESC stability control and ABS brakes are standard. Starting in October 2013, Kia will offer the Microsoft UVO infotainment system as part of the comfort package on LX models. EX models include features such as the new Microsoft UVO infotainment system, an integrated rearview camera, and remote keyless entry with push-button start. Some models have an on/off button on the steering column with a reverse key. Some configurations have a key compartment in the glove box and a start button on the instrument panel.