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.

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Interior Features
Test drivers say the Rio and Rio5 have easy-to-read gauges and generally like the layout of the dash, but the praise ends there. The Rio’s barebones interior comes with a four-speaker audio syst ...

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 ...

Seats
Driver’s seat (1) Seat adjustment, forward / backward (2) Seatback recliner (3) Seat adjustment, height* (4) Seat heater switch* (5) Headrest adjustment Front passenger seat (6) Seat adjust ...