[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/44445908265/[/flickr]
The sedan is handsomely loaded with safety features
Safety and After Sales Service – In terms of safety, the Kia Optima gets 7 airbags, VSC, ESC, Hill Start Assist Control, electronic parking brake with auto hold function and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. Kia is yet to start production of its cars at its Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh facility and is expected to roll out its first car by 2019. Nonetheless, it remains to be seen how expansive will the company’s dealer network turn out to be.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/30420326697/[/flickr]
The Kia Optima will serve as a brand-builder to the company if launched in India
Verdict – The Kia Optima is an attractive-looking car, it’s comfortable, spacious and is also brimmed with features. However, the lackluster engine robs away the driving fun. There is also a 2.0-litre GDi petrol hybrid variant that could be launched in India but considering the shrinking market for D-segment sedans, Kia is most likely to think twice before evaluating the Optima for our market, however, if it does, the segment will get a fresh breath of air, no doubt.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/30420326997/[/flickr]
The petrol engine on the Optima fails to excite
What’s Cool
* Looks and styling
* Long list of features
* Spacious cabin
What’s Not So Cool
* Handling isn’t engaging
* Steering could’ve done with better feel
* Petrol engine isn’t very punchy
Alternatives: – Skoda Superb, Volkswagen Passat, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/44445907955/[/flickr]
Would you pick the Optima over the Germans? Let us know in the comments below
Kia Optima Specifications
* Engine: 1999cc, 4-cyl, NA Petrol
* Power: 163 PS @ 6500 RPM
* Torque: 196 Nm @ 4800 RPM
* Transmission: 6-Speed AT
* 0-100 km/hr: 9.8 Seconds
* Top Speed: 219 km/hr
* Fuel Consumption: 6-9 km/l
* Fuel Type: Petrol
* Suspension: McPherson Strut (Front), Multi-Link (Rear)
* Tyre Size: 215/55/18
* Brakes: Disc (Front), Disc (Rear), ABS
* Safety: 7-Airbags, ABS, VSC, Hill Start Assist
Kia Optima Dimensions
* Overall length x width x height: 4854 mm X 1859 mm X 1465 mm
* Boot Space: 450-litres
* Wheelbase: 2804 mm
* Fuel Tank Capacity: 70-litres
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/44445907745/[/flickr]
Kia will start launching cars in India 2019 onwards
[wp-review id=”224493″]
