All New Optima 2011

Kia has redesigned their mid-size Optima for 2011. The new Optima is a radical departure from the old Optima. Under the handsome styling, the Optima is similar to the Hyundai Sonata, also new for 2011, and it shares the Sonata's powertrain choices: 2.4-liter direct-injected four, 2.0 liter turbocharged four, and a gas-electric hybrid driveline.

“The 2011 Optima incorporates some of Kia’s most advanced safety technologies with head-turning style, performance and comfort to provide consumers with high value and peace-of-mind,” said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of Kia Motors America (KMA) and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG). 

“As the first Korean-built vehicle to be awarded a five-star crash safety rating under NHTSA’s new, stricter guidelines, Optima creates a new benchmark in the segment and underscores Kia’s commitment to offering consumers the highest levels of quality and safety in all of our vehicles.”



In all, 24 passenger cars, 20 sport utility vehicles, two vans, and nine 2011 model year pickups were rated under the new system that not only includes tougher crash tests, but, for the first time, provides consumers with a single overall safety score per vehicle. 

The new testing program also provides consumers with information about new advanced crash avoidance technologies, such as lane departure and forward collision warning systems.

The Optima is sold in the United States in three trims namely LX, EX and SX.

The 2011 Optima comes equipped with a high level of standard safety features, including: six airbags (dual advanced front and front-seat mounted side as well as full-length side curtain), front active headrests, side-impact door beams, height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. 

Four-wheel antilock brakes, ESC, a Traction Control System, a Brake Assist System and Hill Assist Control also are standard.