Kia Optima I LX 2.5 V6 (172 Hp) Automatic


Overall Rating

7.2 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.5 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 3.8 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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 229 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1495 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.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Kia Optima I (Magentis) generation was not tested by Euro NCAP. Safety features were standard for its time, including available ABS.

LX 2.5 V6 (172 Hp) Automatic Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

A refined V6 offering smooth and strong acceleration, ideal for comfortable long-distance travel and effortless cruising.

Fuel Economy

Similar to other V6 automatics, expect moderate to high fuel consumption, reflecting its larger engine and power output.

Best Use Case: Suited for drivers who prioritize V6 smoothness, power, and the convenience of an automatic transmission for a premium feel.

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):LX 2.5 V6 (172 Hp) Automatic
Start of production:2000
End of production:2001
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:172 Hp @ 6000 rpm.
Power per litre:69 Hp/l
Torque:229 Nm @ 4500 rpm.
Engine displacement:2494
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:84 mm mm
Piston Stroke:75 mm mm
Compression ratio:10:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Weight-to-power ratio:8.7 kg/Hp, 115.1 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:6.5 kg/Nm, 153.2 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1495
Max. weight:1855
Max load:360
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:368 l
Fuel tank capacity:65 l
Size:
Length:4722 mm mm
Width:1815 mm mm
Height:1410 mm mm
Wheelbase:2700 mm mm
Front track:1540 mm
Rear (Back) track:1530 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.4 m
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears4
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size195/70 R14; 205/60 R15
Wheel rims size14; 15
Front suspensionWishbone
Rear suspensionCoil spring

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