See all Motoring NewsThe Kia Optima, the Korean car maker's latest entry into the D-segment (or large family car to you and me) is set to arrive in Ireland over the next fortnight and will cost from €26,995 when it hits dealerships around the country.
For the Irish market all examples of the car Kia chief designer, Peter Schreyer, calls "a bold, athletic and visual sporting energy" will be powered by a 134hp 1.7-litre diesel engine that, thanks to low emissions, qualifies of road tax Band B of €204 per year.
"Having been largely absent in recent years from this important segment of the market we are delighted to be back with this very attractive sedan "commented Kia Motors Ireland MD, James Brooks. "We realise that this is an extremely competitive sector... but we are confident that we will soon emulate the success we have enjoyed... with our Picanto, Rio, cee'd and Sportage models."
Entry level EX trim, priced at €26,995, comes generously equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, voice activated Bluetooth, power lumbar support on the driver's seat, steering wheel audio controls and a full-size spare wheel. The €28,995 Platinum model adds 17-inch alloys, a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery with heated front seats, reversing camera, driver memory seat, UV-reducing glass, auto wipers and more. Larger wheels and an automatic transmission are also available and like all Kias the Optima comes complete with a full seven-year/150,000km Kia warranty, which is fully transferrable to subsequent owners.
The five-star Euro NCAP car also comes with safety technologies such as a four-wheel disc braking system supported by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and VSM (Vehicle Stability Management) systems as standard. To alert other motorists to emergency braking manoeuvres ESS (Emergency Stop System) is also fitted. Every Optima is also equipped with front, side and curtain airbags, plus front seat 'active' head restraints to minimise whiplash injuries.
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