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:

Automatic transaxle
Automatic transaxle operation All normal forward driving is done with the shift lever in the D (Drive) position. To move the shift lever from the P (Park) position, the brake pedal must be depr ...

Trailer towing
WARNING - Towing a trailer If you don't use the correct equipment and drive properly, you can lose control when you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not ...

Using four-wheel drive
Driving on snow- or Ice-covered roads (“4WD LOCK” for full-time 4WD operation) • Use snow tires. See “Tires” in this section for more information. • Keep an adequate distance between ...