Kia Introduces 2014 Optima to New Zealand

November, 2013

Kia Introduces 2014 Optima to New Zealand

The 2014 Kia Optima has gone on sale in New Zealand, showcasing refined styling inside and out, together with new technology to keep drivers and their occupants safer……… all at similar, and in some cases lower, list prices to the outgoing model.

In a mid/upper-size sedan segment long dominated by function over desirability, the 2014 Optima cements the model’s status as a trailblazer of combining style and substance in an affordably priced vehicle, now starting from just $42,490.

Refining the Optima’s sculpted, high-end appearance, Kia’s Frankfurt-based design team has improved the vehicle’s front and rear styling. The new grille is bolder and classier, with the LED daytime running lights lifted from the lower bumper to a position just above the headlights.

The vehicle’s bold stance and aerodynamic shape are further accentuated by new rear diffusers and a sweeping trunk lid that replaces the previous rear boot lid spoiler. Lighting up the European-inspired design are striking front LED quad-lamp fog lights (on EX & Limited models), along with newly designed LED rear lamps.

The overall effect of these exterior changes is a smoother and more sophisticated road presence.

The improvements continue inside the 2014 Optima, as occupants are greeted with more upscale and high-tech amenities. Activating the Optima’s push-button ignition brings two new displays to life: a 4.3-inch touch-screen TFT LCD instrument cluster, featuring an 8-speaker Infinity sound system, on the LX and EX models; and a high-resolution 8-inch navigation and telematics screen incorporating the sound system. The SatNav system will be standard on Limited models from February 2014 and will include SUNA Live Traffic Update technology, which provides real-time traffic information for drivers in the Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington and Christchurch regions. The SUNA function is a lifetime component of the Kia SatNav system, whilst the navigation maps are updated and supported by Kia Motors NZ free of charge for the first three years of ownership through the annual service visit to the dealer, thus making it hassle-free for the owner.

The Optima Limited also becomes the first Kia sold in New Zealand to feature the all-new Blind Spot Detection(BSD) and Lane Change Assist system that detects other vehicles out of the driver’s sight, flashing a warning in the door mirror and sounding an audible warning if the driver uses the indicators. There’s also Rear Cross-traffic Alert built into the rear parking sensors, which is useful when backing out of a car park, where it senses laterally to warn the driver of approaching vehicles. Front parking sensors are also standard.

There’s a brand new leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel and new, more ergonomic gear shift lever. The dashboard is also redesigned and the layout and controls are much easier to locate and use.

Comfort is significantly improved with the all-new front seating design incorporating better side support in the cushion and backrest, plus more padding under the leading edge of the cushion, together with softer leather upholstery for the EX and Limited. Also new is the cooling/heated function for the passenger seat, as well as driver’s seat, on the Limited model.

Largely unchanged, the ANZAC suspension system has received some tuning to improve ride and handling feel and reduce noise. The changes include:

• Rear cross member dampers added to reduce road noise

• More insulation to deaden road noise

• Rear wheel guard to further deaden sound transmission

• Upgraded tyres to further reduce road noise

As a result, the 2014 Kia Optima is now quieter than key competitors.

The 2014 Optima is powered by the responsive Theta II 2.4-litre engine, which benefits from gasoline direct injection (GDI) technology. This engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission featuring Sportmatic clutchless shifting as standard. 

To enhance the sporty concept of the Optima there is a Drive-Mode-Select, which allows a customer to select the driving mode from the ECO to Sports Mode. This adjusts settings in the throttle and gear change points to enable the driver to make the selection, via the ECO button on the lower right of the steering wheel.

Every 2014 Optima comes well equipped with a generous roster of standard features. The LX trim offers dual exhaust with chrome tips, solar glass, exterior mirror turn signal indicators, front fog lights, exterior heated mirrors, chrome accented exterior door handles, new 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with 225/55R17 tyres and Infinity sound system with reversing camera on the touch-screen, priced at $42,490, a rise of $500. 

The volume-selling EX model now offers larger 18-inch alloy wheels fitted with 225/45R18 tyres, leather seats, 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat, automatic folding mirrors LED fog lights and illuminated front cup holders and has reduced by $1,000 in price to now sit at $45,990. 

The Limited includes a sports styling package with 18-inch sports alloys, HID headlights, smart cornering lamps, red brake calipers, chrome accented side sills, 10-way power adjustable passenger’s seat, twin sunroofs and dark woodgrain interior trim for $50,490, a reduction of $500 on the previous model.

ENDS

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