Leftlane’s bottom line

Kia is no longer content to be the butt of jokes or the car of last resort for those who may be fiscally challenged.

Although still very much a Hyundai rival, Kia finally has a design language and style of its own. The brand is making all the right moves, unlike a certain Japanese rival that seems to make all the wrong decisions these days.

This particular Korean firm is succeeding in their quest to become a tier-one import that won’t cause anyone to have to explain their purchases. Competing brands should do well to look over their shoulders for there is a new contender gaining on them.

    See also:

    Safety-Minded
    As with the rest of the Kia line-up, the 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with many safety features as standard equipment. This includes six airbags (dual advanced front and front-seat mounted side as ...

    In case of an emergency while driving
    If the engine stalls at a crossroad or crossing If the engine stalls at a crossroad or crossing, set the shift lever in the N (Neutral) position and then push the vehicle to a safe place. If you ...

    Lighting
    Battery saver function (if equipped) • The purpose of this feature is to prevent the battery from being discharged. The system automatically turns off the headlights and parking lights when th ...