Kia: K5/Optima News
#441
Senior Moderator
Time to call this thread!!
#442
Senior Moderator
Driving it as a rental right now and I gotta say, I like it.
![Nod](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/nod.gif)
#443
hail to the victors
You may not like the look of the Optima, but you should at least appreciate what it means to the segment. I believe Optima really is a breath of fresh air and the exterior design is what Accord was supposed to be.
First, I believe k5/Optima is one of the best designed midsize sedan in last 8-9 years among mainstream brands. Yes, the best. It is more adventurous and better executed than its borther k7(cadenza) and sis, Sonata IMO. Not only it stands out, but it brought some originality to the table. also gave the Kia a new corporate face.
but no kia/korean fans should ever claim Optima to be 100% original because it shares similar euro luxury proportion. Schreyer cannot hide his euro roots. from hoffmeister kink to trunk treatment, Optima is very euro in essence. There are some resemblance of lexus IS as well.
and of course there is some XF. no shame in aspiring to be as sexy as XF. looks like a brothers to me
![](http://www.caradvice.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Kia-Optima-Review-Australia27.jpg)
we see time to time mainstream brands trying to design something different yet totally fail. IMO, Kia and Schreyer designed a mainstream masterpiece that changed the midsize landscape. Optima's lines and athletic profile can only be found in cars that cost 40k+. Optima deserves all the praise not because it is 100% original, but it has done the unthinkable - 'let's style the damn midsize sedan'. Sonata did make the noise first, but Optima completed the new hyundai/kia philosophy with much better overall execution. not only k5/Optima stands out among its saturated segment, it can hold its own against entry level cars. yes, there are some design elements which is for decoration only(sidevents anyone?), but like Schreyer said, it keeps the proportion at bay.
I've tragically witnessed Optima and Accord parked side by side in many occasions. it really made me sad as a former honda fan who owned 6 hondas since 1999. but Optima is the reason why Honda/acura fans should not give up hope. It only takes 1 talented guy who believes in a culture change. it really spreads like a wildfire. I know exterior/interior design can only takes you so far, but it really is the critical missing piece from current honda line up.
2 cents
The following users liked this post:
jhumbo (02-02-2012)
#444
Team Owner
I have seen Optima SX parked next to a E60 5 series, and made the E60 look like it was from the 90s.
However, Optima without the SX/turbo package still look good for what it is but definitely not as sharp.
However, Optima without the SX/turbo package still look good for what it is but definitely not as sharp.
#445
I shoot people
I know white colored cars with black/matte wheels are getting played out, but I'd like to see one of these in that color scheme
#446
Back From The dead
Not flat black, but...
![](http://i1006.photobucket.com/albums/af183/08vistabluegt/DSC_0043pb.jpg)
These are my favorites...
![](http://i370.photobucket.com/albums/oo144/acse30/Optima%20SX/DSC_0837.jpg)
Now...for what you asked for
![](http://www.optimaforums.com/forum/attachments/optima-wheels-tires-suspension/764d1312102929-unofficial-aftermarket-optima-wheel-thread-img_1212.jpg)
![](http://www.optimaforums.com/forum/attachments/optima-wheels-tires-suspension/765d1312102929-unofficial-aftermarket-optima-wheel-thread-img_1201.jpg)
And now for something completely different...
![](http://www.optimaforums.com/forum/attachments/optima-wheels-tires-suspension/505d1307302849-unofficial-aftermarket-optima-wheel-thread-optima1.jpg)
![](http://i1006.photobucket.com/albums/af183/08vistabluegt/DSC_0043pb.jpg)
These are my favorites...
![](http://i370.photobucket.com/albums/oo144/acse30/Optima%20SX/DSC_0837.jpg)
Now...for what you asked for
![](http://www.optimaforums.com/forum/attachments/optima-wheels-tires-suspension/764d1312102929-unofficial-aftermarket-optima-wheel-thread-img_1212.jpg)
![](http://www.optimaforums.com/forum/attachments/optima-wheels-tires-suspension/765d1312102929-unofficial-aftermarket-optima-wheel-thread-img_1201.jpg)
And now for something completely different...
![](http://www.optimaforums.com/forum/attachments/optima-wheels-tires-suspension/505d1307302849-unofficial-aftermarket-optima-wheel-thread-optima1.jpg)
![](http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l639/unreligion/rockstarsside1.jpg)
#448
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
^
it appears from your post, you are the new king of Honda fanboy in AZine.
![rofl](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/rofl.gif)
it appears from your post, you are the new king of Honda fanboy in AZine.
The following users liked this post:
PortlandRL (08-23-2011)
#449
אני עומד עם ישראל
SSFTSX replacement?
#452
![Werd](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/werd.gif)
I think someone in another thread came to the conclusion that he is SSFTSX's brother in law. He's like SSFTSX, except he's the uptight, tampon-should-have-been-changed-last-year and responds-to-you version.
#455
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
Agreed. The car looks so much better with some minor drop.
#456
IMHO the accord has turned into a pig..........fat sloppy and ugly
#457
It is established fact now. That Hyundai/Kia has suspension that deformed tires much earlier than any Honda/Acura. and it does not matter whether it is Sonata, Optima or Genesis. despite extensive freeway driving.
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/...ad_test_update
Over this 40K run, the Genesis required attention every 7500 miles, or five routine services that cost a not-so-routine $605 in total, plus $856 for a new set of tires after 35,000 miles. That’s luxury-car money. (Remember our long-term ’09 Jaguar XF [November 2009]? Its four services cost $667.)
Only Honda can achive this scale of improvement over long term.
http://www.caranddriver.com/var/ezfl...8b3a57b7f9.pdf
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/...ad_test_update
Over this 40K run, the Genesis required attention every 7500 miles, or five routine services that cost a not-so-routine $605 in total, plus $856 for a new set of tires after 35,000 miles. That’s luxury-car money. (Remember our long-term ’09 Jaguar XF [November 2009]? Its four services cost $667.)
Only Honda can achive this scale of improvement over long term.
http://www.caranddriver.com/var/ezfl...8b3a57b7f9.pdf
#458
08 MDX, 04 TL (sold)
iTrader: (1)
Unfortunately this is true. My wife drove her sister's Accord the other day and came home saying how surprised she was that she did not like driving the Accord. We used to own a 98 Accord Coupe and we currently have the 04 TL. She likes both. She assumed it would be similar. She described it as "jerky".
#459
אני עומד עם ישראל
#460
Unfortunately this is true. My wife drove her sister's Accord the other day and came home saying how surprised she was that she did not like driving the Accord. We used to own a 98 Accord Coupe and we currently have the 04 TL. She likes both. She assumed it would be similar. She described it as "jerky".
#461
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
2000 Accord EX was my first car... loved it so much, even though I had to change out the transmission once.
#462
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
Anyway, Optima looks so good in person.
![Big Grin](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif)
#463
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
The best super bowl commercial for me ![Blush](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/blush.gif)
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/QrtpdlPsdHE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
![Blush](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/blush.gif)
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/QrtpdlPsdHE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
#464
I shoot people
I LOVE LOVE LOVE the white with black accents/glass top
![Drool](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/drool.gif)
#465
![Mizouse](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/quagmire.gif)
5 hours of Adriana Lima
#466
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
![Drool](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/drool.gif)
#467
Team Owner
Interesting read regarding Motor Trend's long term Kia Optima. The dealer screwed up an oil change. First they said the filter wasn't put on correctly, then they said the filter was bad. Complete engine swap resulted!
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...a_sx_update_4/
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...a_sx_update_5/
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...a_sx_update_4/
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...a_sx_update_5/
#468
Safety Car
So, these commercials show the LED strips above fogs, but I haven't seen any USDM ones with them on. AFAIK, they weren't even optional in the beginning. Are they added on to option list now or did they just make the commercial with KDM K5?
#470
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
Interesting read regarding Motor Trend's long term Kia Optima. The dealer screwed up an oil change. First they said the filter wasn't put on correctly, then they said the filter was bad. Complete engine swap resulted!
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...a_sx_update_4/
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...a_sx_update_5/
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...a_sx_update_4/
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...a_sx_update_5/
Maybe I have to check out the dealership one more time, but my last experience at Kia/Hyundai dealership was pretty bad.
#471
I shoot people
#472
I shoot people
Kia is probably the last company comic book fans would expect to build a Batmobile, but that’s exactly what it has done, sort of. Kia and DC Entertainment will unveil a Batman-themed Optima SX Limited in New York this week, as part of a charity collaboration between the Korean carmaker and the legendary comics publisher.
The Bat-Kia is the first of several superhero-themed cars that will roll out over the next 10 months to raise awareness for DC’s “We Can Be Heroes” campaign, which raises money to fight hunger in the Horn of Africa.
With its bat-shaped grille and Bat Symbol graphics, it’s hard to miss whose car this is. This Optima actually looks a little like some of the original Batmobiles from the 1930s and 1940s, which were essentially regular cars with bat hood ornaments or winged fenders.
The Optima is also lowered, and features 20-inch wheels and a body kit that should give Batman plenty of street cred (not that he needs any more). It should also make maneuvering through Gotham City’s wrecked streets a tad difficult.
Inside, the seats are covered in black leather with yellow stitching and, of course, the ever-present Bat Symbol. Throwing stars are mounted in the center console for easy access, and the Batsuit, complete with cape and cowl, is stored in the trunk.
Kia chose the top-spec Optima SX Limited to turn into a Batmobile. That means it has a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four with 274 horsepower, coupled to a six-speed automtaic transmission. That may be a lot of power for a midsize sedan, but Kia may need to add a jet turbine to really impress the Dark Knight.
When it goes on display at New York’s Time Warner Center, the Batman Optima shouldn’t have a problem attracting attention to DC’s charity efforts. A video on the “We Can Be Heroes” campaign will play through monitors mounted in the car’s headrests.
As part of a global media conglomerate, DC isn’t new to cross promotions. For the release of Dark Knight Rises, the comics company teamed up with Chrysler to customize a 300 for the streets of Gotham City. However this time, the goal is charity, which is definitely more worthy of the Caped Crusader. It looks like the Batcave will need more parking spaces.
The Bat-Kia is the first of several superhero-themed cars that will roll out over the next 10 months to raise awareness for DC’s “We Can Be Heroes” campaign, which raises money to fight hunger in the Horn of Africa.
With its bat-shaped grille and Bat Symbol graphics, it’s hard to miss whose car this is. This Optima actually looks a little like some of the original Batmobiles from the 1930s and 1940s, which were essentially regular cars with bat hood ornaments or winged fenders.
The Optima is also lowered, and features 20-inch wheels and a body kit that should give Batman plenty of street cred (not that he needs any more). It should also make maneuvering through Gotham City’s wrecked streets a tad difficult.
Inside, the seats are covered in black leather with yellow stitching and, of course, the ever-present Bat Symbol. Throwing stars are mounted in the center console for easy access, and the Batsuit, complete with cape and cowl, is stored in the trunk.
Kia chose the top-spec Optima SX Limited to turn into a Batmobile. That means it has a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four with 274 horsepower, coupled to a six-speed automtaic transmission. That may be a lot of power for a midsize sedan, but Kia may need to add a jet turbine to really impress the Dark Knight.
When it goes on display at New York’s Time Warner Center, the Batman Optima shouldn’t have a problem attracting attention to DC’s charity efforts. A video on the “We Can Be Heroes” campaign will play through monitors mounted in the car’s headrests.
As part of a global media conglomerate, DC isn’t new to cross promotions. For the release of Dark Knight Rises, the comics company teamed up with Chrysler to customize a 300 for the streets of Gotham City. However this time, the goal is charity, which is definitely more worthy of the Caped Crusader. It looks like the Batcave will need more parking spaces.
#473
Race Director
Just turned in a '13 model that I had as a rental which I drove over 400 miles in no CA. Other than the good looking outside and comfy seats everything else is fairly pedestrian. The feel of it is pretty vague and the mileage was about 30MPG of mostly hwy miles. Nice car to rent but wouldn't buy it if it was my money.
#474
The Third Ball
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Los Angeles, Ca
Age: 45
Posts: 49,321
Received 4,973 Likes
on
2,648 Posts
The lease on my in laws 2010 Accord is up this month, so went looking for a replacement. As nice as the new Accords are, the lease deals aren't great.
So, they really liked the optima and ended up with one. They just got a base SX, but its REALLLLLY nice. pretty well equipped for a base model, steering is tight and sporty. exterior/interior design is really good. Dash is soft touch materials. some hard plastics. 6spd auto with sport shift.
huge trunk space, good rear seat space.
Only thing I'd say is Honda still has the smoothest 4 bangers. But while this engine is a tad more "buzzy" its got good pick up.
Very impressed.
So, they really liked the optima and ended up with one. They just got a base SX, but its REALLLLLY nice. pretty well equipped for a base model, steering is tight and sporty. exterior/interior design is really good. Dash is soft touch materials. some hard plastics. 6spd auto with sport shift.
huge trunk space, good rear seat space.
Only thing I'd say is Honda still has the smoothest 4 bangers. But while this engine is a tad more "buzzy" its got good pick up.
Very impressed.
The following users liked this post:
is300eater (02-13-2013)
#475
Burning Brakes
#476
Moderator
2019 Optima Sportwagon
https://www.netcarshow.com/kia/2019-...on_eu-version/
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_Sportswagon_EU-Version-2019-1600-01.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_Sportswagon_EU-Version-2019-1600-02.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_Sportswagon_EU-Version-2019-1600-04.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_Sportswagon_EU-Version-2019-1600-07.jpg)
Kia Motors Europe has introduced a range of design enhancements and new engines for the new Kia Optima. Sold in Europe as a saloon or Sportswagon, the car makes its debut at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show, and is due on sale across Europe in Q3 2018.
The Optima range benefits from two new powertrain options: Kia's all-new 'U3' 1.6-litre CRDi (Common-Rail Direct injection) diesel engine, and a 1.6-litre T-GDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct injection) engine. As well as refreshed exterior and interior design, the new Optima also features Kia's latest active safety and in-car connectivity technologies.
Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer of Kia Motors Europe, commented: "The Optima enjoyed a record year of sales in Europe in 2017, with sales growing from 9,600 to more than 16,800 units last year. It is a key contributor to Kia's sustainable growth in Europe, and the Optima's sales momentum has been maintained through the introduction of new variants in 2017. These include Sportswagon and high-performance GT variants, and an ultra-low emissions Plug-in Hybrid powertrain.
"With a model to meet every requirement, the Optima's refreshed design, new engines and expanded range of technologies will further broaden its appeal, for corporate and private buyers alike."
The Optima range benefits from two new powertrain options: Kia's all-new 'U3' 1.6-litre CRDi (Common-Rail Direct injection) diesel engine, and a 1.6-litre T-GDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct injection) engine. As well as refreshed exterior and interior design, the new Optima also features Kia's latest active safety and in-car connectivity technologies.
Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer of Kia Motors Europe, commented: "The Optima enjoyed a record year of sales in Europe in 2017, with sales growing from 9,600 to more than 16,800 units last year. It is a key contributor to Kia's sustainable growth in Europe, and the Optima's sales momentum has been maintained through the introduction of new variants in 2017. These include Sportswagon and high-performance GT variants, and an ultra-low emissions Plug-in Hybrid powertrain.
"With a model to meet every requirement, the Optima's refreshed design, new engines and expanded range of technologies will further broaden its appeal, for corporate and private buyers alike."
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_Sportswagon_EU-Version-2019-1600-01.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_Sportswagon_EU-Version-2019-1600-02.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_Sportswagon_EU-Version-2019-1600-04.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_Sportswagon_EU-Version-2019-1600-07.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_Sportswagon_EU-Version-2019-1600-06.jpg)
#477
Moderator
https://www.cars.com/articles/2019-k...1420699544024/
Competes with: Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry
Looks like: The Optima lineup gets some light cosmetic updates
Drivetrain: Engines include a 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder; a 178-hp, turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder; and a 245-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Transmission choices include six- and seven-speed automatics.
Hits dealership: Late 2018
Kia's Optima mid-size sedan returns for 2019 with updates that add style and substance. The refreshed 2019 Optima made its debut at the 2018 New York International Auto Show with mildly freshened styling, additional standard safety features that were previously optional and a restructured multimedia system.
For 2019, LX, S, EX and SX models return with updates to all trims.
Passion Red is a new exterior color choice.
On base models, the UVO Play system is standard; it features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Stepping up, the UVO Link system is standard on mid-level S and EX models and, aside from also being Apple Car Play and Android Auto compatible, Kia says it offers an extended suite of connected-car security and convenience features like on-demand diagnostics, maintenance alerts, vehicle alarm notifications, geofencing and speed alerts, as well as convenience features such as remote start with climate control, remote locking and unlocking, and remote activation of the horn and lights.
Offered as standard on SX models and sedans with the SXL package, and optional on EX-trim cars with the Premium Package, is the top-tier UVO Link with navigation system. It includes all the features of the first two UVO tiers plus navigation functionality.
Other interior updates are minor, and the SX model sees all the upgrades, including new two-tone red-and-black, leather-trimmed sport seats, a Harman Kardon premium audio system and, on SXL models, an available new two-tone bronze-and-black interior with Nappa leather seating surfaces.
The 2019 Optima goes on sale later this year; Kia said it will announce pricing closer to the vehicle's on-sale date.
Looks like: The Optima lineup gets some light cosmetic updates
Drivetrain: Engines include a 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder; a 178-hp, turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder; and a 245-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Transmission choices include six- and seven-speed automatics.
Hits dealership: Late 2018
Kia's Optima mid-size sedan returns for 2019 with updates that add style and substance. The refreshed 2019 Optima made its debut at the 2018 New York International Auto Show with mildly freshened styling, additional standard safety features that were previously optional and a restructured multimedia system.
For 2019, LX, S, EX and SX models return with updates to all trims.
Exterior
Outside, the updates are mild and include standard upgrades across the lineup, such as Stinger-inspired LED daytime running lights, a new 16-inch alloy wheel design and matte-gray grille. The S model adds new projection-beam foglamps, LED taillights, dual exhaust, sport side sills with gloss-black trim, a gloss-black grille and 18-inch alloy wheels. The SX model gets sportier trim like gloss-black door pillars and side moldings, and a sport bumper with LED foglamps.Passion Red is a new exterior color choice.
Interior
For 2019, Kia restructured the availability of its UVO multimedia system into what it says is an easy-to-understand tiered system. The 2019 Optima is the first Kia to launch with this approach; others will follow.On base models, the UVO Play system is standard; it features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Stepping up, the UVO Link system is standard on mid-level S and EX models and, aside from also being Apple Car Play and Android Auto compatible, Kia says it offers an extended suite of connected-car security and convenience features like on-demand diagnostics, maintenance alerts, vehicle alarm notifications, geofencing and speed alerts, as well as convenience features such as remote start with climate control, remote locking and unlocking, and remote activation of the horn and lights.
Offered as standard on SX models and sedans with the SXL package, and optional on EX-trim cars with the Premium Package, is the top-tier UVO Link with navigation system. It includes all the features of the first two UVO tiers plus navigation functionality.
Other interior updates are minor, and the SX model sees all the upgrades, including new two-tone red-and-black, leather-trimmed sport seats, a Harman Kardon premium audio system and, on SXL models, an available new two-tone bronze-and-black interior with Nappa leather seating surfaces.
Under the Hood
The Optima's powertrains carry over for 2019 and include a 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder; a 178-hp, turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder; and a 245-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Six- and seven-speed automatic transmissions also return.Safety
For 2019, Kia has made a number of safety features standard on the Optima, including forward collision avoidance assist, which can automatically apply the brakes to reduce speed if a collision is imminent. It works with forward collision warning, which sounds an alert chime if it senses a collision is imminent. Also standard, the driver attention warning system monitors the driver's behavior and will alert the driver with visual and audible cues if it senses the driver's attention level has been reduced. Lastly, lane departure warning with lane keep assist alerts the driver if the car shifts out of the lane and then automatically corrects the steering to get it back into the lane.The 2019 Optima goes on sale later this year; Kia said it will announce pricing closer to the vehicle's on-sale date.
#478
Moderator
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_US-Version-2019-1600-12.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_US-Version-2019-1600-01.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_US-Version-2019-1600-10.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_US-Version-2019-1600-0f.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_US-Version-2019-1600-11.jpg)
#479
Moderator
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_US-Version-2019-1600-13.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_US-Version-2019-1600-16.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_US-Version-2019-1600-17.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_US-Version-2019-1600-14.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_US-Version-2019-1600-15.jpg)
![](https://www.netcarshow.com/Kia-Optima_US-Version-2019-1600-1e.jpg)
#480
![Yawn](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/yawn.gif)
![ugh](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/ugh.gif)