New kid on the block? 2011 Kia Optima with DI, Turbo, Hybrid

[kh92]

Ive seen it in the flesh, the rear end is very pleasant but i wasn't so sure with the front. I would actually consider it if it wasn't a "KIA" ...

are these rwd fwd or awd?

[Caffeine Fiend]

I'd be interested to see the build quality and level of interior refinement. That's still where the Kia's are lacking IMO.

I see them where Hyundai was about ten-twelve years ago. Getting there, but still a little way off

the grille looks like a smiling pig

Bwahahahahahahahahah


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[andy b]

I'd be interested to see the build quality and level of interior refinement. That's still where the Kia's are lacking IMO.

I see them where Hyundai was about ten-twelve years ago. Getting there, but still a little way off

I've had a look in the showroom and the interior is very impressive in terms of quality, ergonomics and technology. Compared to the Magentis which had the very worst leather I have seen in a car.

I personally like the look and think they're on to a real winner. The only issue seems to be the handling which is still not up to the same standard as the Japanese.

I think Kia are starting to produce cars that are more appealing in terms of styling, value and drive experience than Hyundai (look at i45, while it shares the same platform it doesn't review as well).

[duglet]

I've had a look in the showroom and the interior is very impressive in terms of quality, ergonomics and technology. Compared to the Magentis which had the very worst leather I have seen in a car.

I personally like the look and think they're on to a real winner. The only issue seems to be the handling which is still not up to the same standard as the Japanese.

I think Kia are starting to produce cars that are more appealing in terms of styling, value and drive experience than Hyundai (look at i45, while it shares the same platform it doesn't review as well).

i45 looks good but lacks handling and this was from Hyundai salesman.

KIA have come a long way in so little time, think about it.

Japanese car makers have taken nearly 40 years to refine, where KIA has basically done it in 10.

Looks, interior and fit/finish can all be put down to KIA hiring Audi designer and also the VW main design chief as well.

They are trying to make KIA appealing in UK and Europe and actually taking it to the local brands with half the pricing.

Australians will judge the Korean cars on past achievements while in their infant stages.

But both KIA and Hyundai are giving factory warranties that other car makers aren't so are standing behind their products.

So I personally think great car and looks rather sweet and not boring like most Jap brands (Mazda, Subaru and Honda).

Need to refine the handling which will happen as they start releasing the new breed of sports cars and performance hatches.

P.S. Excels ain't bad cars as after 20 years you still see them on the road driving around, they were the cheapest new car back in the day.

Happy Motoring
duglet

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[mech81]

Just saw a vid on this
2011 Kia Optima Hybrid Review - Watch CNET's Video Review

[laser beam]

This is better, minus the horrible wheels:



Looks sweet!

Nice M3! Wheels/side indicators/black roof... all ideas from the kind folks at BMW (alas i know the wheels are 'shopped).



I'll be keen for a test drive!