2012 Kia Optima: The test vehicle was fitted with the new 2.4L GDI four-cylinder that makes 200 horsepower (up from 175 hp in the previous car), and a six-speed automatic transmission. The new engine offers up more power, and less thirst for fuel (Kia's early mileage numbers are 24 mpg [11.8 L/100 km] in the city; 35 [8.1 L/100 km] on the highway). The Optima's new 2.4L engine feels responsive and quickly gets the car up to 100 km/h on the proving ground's straightway.
Kia will also offer a 2.0L GDI Turbo that makes 274 hp; while a 2.4L hybrid, Kia's first electric-gas car in North America, will arrive next year. In the driver's seat, the design is easily laid out to reach dials and controls, and the look is clean and modern - a look Kia hopes will appeal to men in their 30s and 40s.
2012 Kia Optima Hybrid
2012 Kia Optima Hybrid
2012 Kia Optima Hybrid
2012 Kia Optima Hybrid
2012 Kia Optima Hybrid
