For 2007, the Kia Magentis is all-new, with new styling, longer wheelbase, wider track, increased horsepower, and better fuel economy than the model it replaces.
The Magentis, known as the Optima in the U.S., is a sister car to the Hyundai Sonata, which was updated for 2006; the Magentis moves up to that new platform for 2007.
The Magentis comes with a choice of two engines: a 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder, mated to a five-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic transmission with manual mode, and a 2.7-litre V6 that uses the automatic exclusively.
The LX uses the 2.4-litre, and includes 16-inch steel wheels, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, side and curtain airbags, heated mirrors, variable intermittent wipers, air conditioning, power windows with driver’s one-touch up/down, power locks with keyless entry, CD stereo with six speakers and wheel-mounted controls, tilt column, centre console with cell phone pass-through, rear centre armrest, heated cloth seats, and 60/40 split folding rear seats.
The LX-V6 adds 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, dual exhaust, and telescopic steering column.
The LX Premium adds electronic stability control, traction control, fog lamps, power sunroof, tilt and telescopic column, trip computer, automatic light control, and eight-way power driver’s seat.
The LX-V6 Luxury adds 17-inch alloy wheels, electronic stability control, traction control, leather seats with eight-way power driver’s adjustment, blacked-out sport front grille and headlamps, power sunroof, in-glass antenna, automatic climate control, trip computer, automatic light control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, garage door opener, leather-wrapped wheel, and aluminum interior trim.
The Magentis makes great strides with its updates: steering feel, power in both engines, seat comfort, build quality and safety features are now first-class, making this car a player in the midsize sedan market. The four-cylinder can be a bit anemic when you need passing power; the V6 is smooth and powerful, and makes this car a pleasure to drive. While it shares its platform with the Hyundai Sonata, there are key differences – including the front suspension, V6 engine and interior – so be sure to test-drive both before you choose.
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