New 2006.5 Optima

Schnauzer · 01-17-2006, 01:13 PM

Kia is now showing the new redesigned "2006.5" Optima on their web site in a small pop up window. Looks like we lucked out with the name staying Optima for the U.S. market afterall. The new 2.4 engine gets 161 hp. There is no mention yet if the V6 2.7 is getting bumped to 200 as rumered or not on the site. Hyundai's bigger Sonata engine is not an option, yet. Peronally I am going to find it very hard not to like this new Optima!

ahfrederick · 01-17-2006, 10:09 PM

True dat.. DOUBLE TRUE! LMAO!

But seriously.. if it comes down to it.. just do an engine swap... since they ARE the same car..

Hkian · 01-17-2006, 11:30 PM

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The link is from a Bristish Mag I think. They praise the handling of the new Optima.

ahfrederick · 01-19-2006, 01:44 PM

Nice!

Lance · 01-19-2006, 02:10 PM

I may have to go Optima for my next car!

Daytonabob · 01-19-2006, 05:16 PM

Lance, there is no time like the present!!!!

Spec SX · 01-19-2006, 07:10 PM

The new Optima is going to be a nicer car than I originally thought it would be. At first I really didnt like the looks of it but now I like it more and more every time I see a picture of it. Once it comes out I will have to go take a look at it.

ahfrederick · 01-20-2006, 01:26 AM

Yup Yup.. same here Spec.. I'll definatly test drive one when enterprise picks a few up to rent!

Schnauzer · 02-17-2006, 02:23 PM

Recently I saw what appeared to be the new 2006.5 Optima at the local dealer in the back lot and it was. It was being driven by a Kia regional tech and man was it ever nice looking in person. I wasn't bold enough to bother the tech but was bold enough to check out the interior before leaving the lot. Very handsome inside and outside. I think Kia has a real winner in this new Optima.

Schnauzer · 02-19-2006, 09:14 PM

I came across these pictures of the 2006.5 Optima that I thought were very nice.