The mid-size Kia Optima is slated to debut in December at the South Florida Auto Show in Miami.
The Kia Rio appeared in showrooms in August.
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Having already introduced the Spectra hatchback sedan to the U.S. in May and a new subcompact sedan - the Rio - in August, Kia Motors America is set to unveil a new mid-size sedan, the Optima, in December at the South Florida Auto Show in Miami.
Optima is the largest Kia yet to be marketed in the U.S. and will be available with either a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine or a 2.5-liter V6. The standard four-cylinder engine produces 111 kW (149 hp), while the optional V6 produces 127 kW (170 hp).
The front-wheel-drive, five-passenger Rio subcompact sedan features dual airbags, power-assisted front brakes, and an optional antilock braking system. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, but a four-speed electronically controlled automatic is available.
With a wheelbase of 2410 mm (95 in), the Rio is 4215 mm (166 in) long, 1675 mm (66 in) wide, and 1440 mm (57 in) high. Higher-than-normal seats give the driver and passengers improved road view, with front headroom of 1000 mm (39 in). Rear headroom is 955 mm (38 in). The driver's seat is height-adjustable and features an integral fold-down armrest.
The Rio's 5-speed drivetrain with overdrive is equipped with Kia's all-new MI-Tech (Millennium Innovation Technology) powerplant, which offers multi-port electronic fuel injection, DOHC, and tuned intake and exhaust manifolds. The 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine produces 72 kW (96 hp) at 5800 rpm and 133 N¥m (98 lb¥ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. Bore and stroke is 75.5 x 83.4 mm (2.97 x 3.28 in).
Independent front suspension is by MacPherson struts; rear suspension is by torsion beam with coil springs. Steering is by rack-and-pinion, with power assist part of an upgrade package that also includes a tilt steering wheel.
The Rio uses Kia's exclusive CIAS (Crush Impact Absorbing Structure) body design, which combines minimal weight with maximum strength. Brakes employ ventilated front disc and rear drum.
David Molter
AEI October 2000
