2011 Kia Optima Review
Price
from: RM99,242
to: RM116,887
Installment
from: RM946/mth
to: RM1,115/mth
2011 Kia Optima at a glance
The formula of attractive pricing, roomy interior and good equipments has worked before, and will continue to tempt undemanding drivers. Know however that the 2011 Kia Optima is seriously behind times in more areas than one.
2011 Kia Optima quick specs
| Body Style | Sedan |
| Class | Large Family |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2011 Kia Optima ratings (overall rating : 3/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
Judging the styling of a car is more often than not subjective. But for the 2011 Kia Optima, one has to agree that it crosses into the category of boring, or bland, whichever you like. Kia seems to have copied rivals' styling, not the current ones, but designs from about a decade ago. The interior styling is similarly dated, but at least the neat dash arrangement aids ergonomics.
Handling
Like the styling, the 2011 Kia Optima's dynamics are brought onwards to today from a decade ago. From the low grip levels, the uncertain steering, to the poor body control, as can be seen in the great deal of body roll through corners, keen drivers will find little to like about the 2011 Kia Optima. This is a car purely for point A to point B travelling.
Comfort
The comfort-tuned suspension handles smooth roads well, delivering a settled ride; but deals poorly with rougher surfaces, allowing too much impact of the bumps into the cabin. Refinement does better with non-intrusive road, engine or wind noise at highway speeds. Drivers get manual tilt and telescopic steering adjustments. Driver's seat in the EX adjusts for height, while the EX NOVUS gets eight-way powered driver's seat. Controls are logically and neatly placed, providing for good cabin ergonomics.
Quality + Reliability
The 2011 Kia Optima shares the same undesirable characteristic as many previous-generation Kia and Hyundai models. While the dash items are solidly put together, plenty of unappealing, cheap-feeling materials fill the dashboard. However, the 2011 Kia Optima's switchgear and mechanics should also share the reliability of many Kia and Hyundai models. The two sister brands have proved themselves reliable thus far, and we do not expect things to change.
Performance
The 2.0-litre DOHC CVVT engine is paired to a four-speed automatic transmission, and together, the 2011 Kia Optima delivers a reasonable performance on the roads. To obtain real urge will require some high-revving action, though drivers will be put off by the resulting strained engine note. The dated four-speed automatic could shift smoother, too.
Roominess
The 2011 Kia Optima's strongest point lies in its roominess. Front and rear occupants enjoy ample head- and leg-room. The boot is similarly large, providing a generous 420 litres of loading capacity, which can be further increased with 60:40 split-folding rear seats. This is one area where the 2011 Kia Optima measures up to class standards.
Running Costs
The fuel economy is respectable by 2.0-litre engine capacity standards. Maintenance and repair costs should be competitive with large sedan rivals'. The biggest concern however is that the second-hand market values may take a potentially massive hit, no thanks to the lacklustre Kia brand and how the Optima feels absolutely dated by modern standards.
Value for Money
The 2011 Kia Optima competes in the large sedan segment with a significantly lower price tag. Through its pricing strategy, it is clear that Kia wants to lure buyers away from the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, and even the Honda Civic or Toyota Altis. Sure, many will be tempted by the room and equipment level on offer, but there is little else. For us, the 2011 Kia Optima is seriously behind times, and we see no reason in recommending it.
Equipment
EX gets Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, dual airbags, seatbelt pretensioner, active headrests, MP3-CD playing stereo, steering wheel mounted audio controls, trip computer, power windows, remote keyless entry, alarm, central door locking and 16-inch alloy wheels. EX NOVUS adds Infinity 6.1 audio system, perforated suede and leather upholstery, 8-way powered driver's seat, auto headlights, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Environment
The environment is not as high on Kia's list compared to Japanese or European automakers. A carbon dioxide emission level of 192 g/km for a 2.0-litre engine is not considered efficient. But at least the 2011 Kia Optima's fuel consumption is respectable by class standards.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Attractive pricing
Roomy interior
Equipment list
Bland styling
Dynamically inept
Unappealing cabin materials
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