Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Kia Optima I 1.8 (134 Hp)
Overall Rating
Kia Optima:
The Kia K5 , formerly known as the Kia Optima , is a mid-size car manufactured by Kia since 2000 and marketed globally through various nameplates. First generation cars were mostly marketed as the Optima, although the Kia Magentis name was used in Europe and Canada when sales began there in 2002. For the second-generation models, Kia used the Kia Lotze and Kia K5 name for the South Korean market, and the Magentis name globally, except in the United States, Canada, Malaysia and the Middle East, where the Optima name was retained until the 2021 model year. The K5 name is used for all markets since the introduction of the fifth generation in 2019....(Read more on Wikipedia)
I Overview:
Kia Optima (I). With 169 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1320 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Kia Optima I (Magentis) generation was not tested by Euro NCAP. Safety features were standard for its time, including available ABS.
1.8 (134 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Provides basic performance, sufficient for city driving but may feel underpowered or strained during highway merges or at higher speeds.
Fuel Economy
Likely the most fuel-efficient option in the lineup, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers focused on running costs.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Excellent value for money in its segment
- • Spacious and comfortable interior for a mid-size sedan
- • Good range of engine options, including powerful V6s
- • Smooth and composed ride quality
- • Generous standard features for its price point
Cons:
- • Uninspired exterior styling compared to some rivals
- • Interior materials could feel less refined than competitors
- • Not as dynamically engaging as some Japanese or European sedans
- • Limited advanced safety features for its time
- • Resale value typically lower than segment leaders
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Kia |
| Model: | Optima |
| Generation: | I |
| Modification (Engine): | 1.8 (134 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2000 |
| End of production: | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 134 Hp @ 6000 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 73 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 169 Nm @ 4500 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 1836 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 81.5 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 88 mm mm |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.8 kg/Nm, 128 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1320 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 479 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 65 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4745 mm mm |
| Width: | 1815 mm mm |
| Height: | 1420 mm mm |
| Wheelbase: | 2700 mm mm |
| Front track: | 1540 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1530 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Kia Optima!