Efficient, Powerful Engine
Available in two powerplants - a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 2.7-liter V6 engine - and two five-speed transmissions (manual with LX four-cylinder model only), the 2009 Kia Optima introduces a new engine under its hood. When redesigned as a 2006.5 model, the peppy four-cylinder engine delivered 161 horsepower, a 15-percent increase from the previous generation. For 2009, a more powerful 2.4-liter engine takes its place, producing an additional 13 horsepower. Optima's four-cylinder output increases to 175 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque. The available 2.7-liter V6 engine remains a carryover but output has increased to 190 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The V6 is mated to a five-speed, gated automatic transmission. All automatics feature Sportmaticâ„¢ clutchless shifting.
The introductions of Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and a Variable Intake System (VIS) further enhance Optima's new under-the-hood excitement. These added systems improve the vehicle's fuel economy without sacrificing power.
Built on a unibody frame, the front-wheel-drive Optima utilizes independent front and rear suspension systems. MacPherson struts are used in the front with a multi-link layout in the rear and are joined with coil springs and anti-roll bars (standard equipment on all models) to engage drivers with responsive handling and provide utmost comfort whether the road is smooth or less than ideal.
See also:
Door locks
Operating door locks from outside
the vehicle
• Turn the key toward the front of the
vehicle to unlock and toward the rear of
the vehicle to lock.
• If you lock the driver’s door with a k ...
Transfer case (4WD)
Checking or changing transfer
case fluid
Have transfer case fluid checked or
changed by an Authorized Kia
Dealer according to the Maintenance
Schedule at the beginning of this
section.
Use only ...
Petrol engines blend power with economy
Now fitted with upgraded electronics and low-friction components, Kia's
revised 2.0-litre 'Theta II' petrol engine delivers more power, improved
durability, enhanced refinement and reduced fuel co ...