Kia Optima 2012 Kuwait Prices & Specs

Hyundai has upped its game considerably, and sister-company Kia benefits too. The new-for-2011 Kia Optima is based on the latest Sonata and therefore a larger car than its predecessor. Styled like a European sedan, the midsize Optima will receive two economy-biased engines in the GCC, mainly a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder, with some countries receiving a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder. Both are available with 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmissions, though some countries will only get a standard automatic with paddle-shifters. The base model comes with power steering, power windows, manual a/c with rear cooling ducts, automatic headlights, paddle shifters, power mirrors with indicators, fog lamps, leatherette-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, CD/MP3 stereo with 6 speakers, USB and AUX ports with iPod cable, steering wheel buttons, 16-inch steel wheels and a single airbag. The mid-range model gains a panoramic glass roof, with automatic rolling cloth roof-shades, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels and ABS. The fully-optioned model is loaded with intelligent keyless entry with start button, power-folding mirrors, HID headlights, chrome door handles, automatic a/c, rear parking sensors, overhead 'map' lights up front, excellent leather upholstery, driver's power-adjusted seat, trip computer, slightly-tinted glass, 6-CD changer, ventilated seats, 18-inch alloys, navigation, Bluetooth, six airbags, and stability control with hill-start assist and brake assist. Kia is offering proper safety features only in the top model.