2009 Kia Optima / Magentis

At first glance the redesigned 2009 Kia Optima (sold in Canada as the Magentis) looks like a marked improvement over the outgoing model.

The design itself, while not exactly breathtaking, is on par with Japanese and American competitors. In fact, one could even say it is handsome.

The car is just 2.5-inches longer than the ’08 model but due to the robust styling looks even larger. And combined with the bold new chrome grille and chrome trim around the windows it has an appearance that is both serious and just a little sophisticated. In short, it’s an immense upgrade and no longer looks like a wannabe in the family sedan segment.

See also:

Trunk
Outside the vehicle • To open the trunk, insert the key into the lock and turn it to the right (clockwise). • To close the trunk, use both hands to push the trunk lid down. Check to see if ...

Manual Transaxle
Manual transaxle operation The manual transaxle has 6 forward gears. This shift pattern is imprinted on the shift knob. The transaxle is fully synchronized in all forward gears so shifting to e ...

Automatic transaxle
Automatic transaxle operation The highly efficient automatic transaxle has 5 forward speeds and one reverse speed. The individual speeds are selected automatically, depending on the position of ...