Target Audience:
Value-conscious consumers seeking a comfortable, reliable, and well-equipped mid-size sedan.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu
Value Proposition:
Offers a compelling blend of features, comfort, and performance for its price point, often positioned as a strong value alternative to more established Japanese and American rivals.
Design Philosophy:
Designed with European styling influences, providing a more sophisticated and distinct appearance compared to some of its contemporaries.
Regions Covered:
Global (specific regional variations may exist within the manual)
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels (e.g., LX, EX, GT)
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for this model and year)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (2.0L I4, 2.5L V6, 2.7L V6), Transmission (Automatic), Fuel System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Fuses & Relays, Wiper/Washer System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors)
Body:
Exterior Features (Doors, Hood, Trunk), Interior Features (Seats, Upholstery, Controls), Climate Control System
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Fluid Checks & Top-offs, Filter Replacements (Air, Oil, Fuel), Spark Plug Replacement, Tire Rotation & Pressure Checks, Battery Maintenance
Troubleshooting:
Warning Light Explanations, Basic Diagnostics for Common Issues (e.g., starting problems, overheating)
Operation:
Dashboard Controls, Gauges & Indicators, Driving Techniques, Climate Control Operation, Audio System Operation, Safety Features Operation
Depth:
Comprehensive owner-level information, including operational guides, maintenance procedures, and basic troubleshooting. Does not typically include in-depth repair procedures or diagnostic schematics found in a service manual.
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.0L (1998 cc)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Engine 1 Valvetrain:
DOHC, 16 Valves
Engine 1 Horsepower:
138 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate)
Engine 1 Torque:
136 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approximate)
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.5L (2497 cc)
Engine 2 Configuration:
V6
Engine 2 Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 Valves
Engine 2 Horsepower:
168 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate)
Engine 2 Torque:
177 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)
Engine 3 Displacement:
2.7L (2656 cc)
Engine 3 Configuration:
V6
Engine 3 Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 Valves
Engine 3 Horsepower:
170 hp @ 5800 rpm (approximate)
Engine 3 Torque:
180 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
15.5 gallons (approximate)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual (primarily for 2.0L engine in some markets)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic (common for all engines)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, with modes for power/economy.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia/Hyundai SPIII ATF or equivalent (refer to specific manual for exact specification)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2006 model year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2006 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars (2006 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4 Stars (2006 model year)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good (2006 model year)
Ebd:
Standard (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Traction Control:
Optional (on some higher trims)
Airbags Front:
Dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional (front seat-mounted side airbags)
Airbags Curtain:
Optional (side curtain airbags)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, often with MP3 capability. Available premium audio systems on higher trims.
Speakers:
Typically 6-speaker system, with optional premium sound.
Display:
Digital clock display, potentially a small LCD screen for audio information.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Parking Assist:
Rear parking sensors available on some higher trims
Auxiliary Input:
Available on some models, typically in the center console or glove box
Bluetooth:
Not typically available from the factory for the 2006 model year.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used - refer to manual for exact recommendation)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (initial change at 60,000 miles for some coolants)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs: 60,000 - 100,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and interval)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable for the 2.0L DOHC engine (timing chain). For V6 engines, refer to manual for timing belt or chain maintenance intervals.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API SM or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 - 5.5 quarts (10W-30 for 2.0L, check manual for V6 capacity)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (Asian Red or equivalent - 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Power Steering Fluid:
Kia/Hyundai Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF
Common Complaints Powertrain:
Occasional oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan gaskets, potential for premature wear on certain engine components with high mileage if maintenance is neglected.
Common Complaints Chassis:
Front suspension components (e.g., sway bar links, ball joints) can experience wear over time, leading to clunking noises. Brake pad and rotor wear is typical for any vehicle.
Common Complaints Electrical:
Minor electrical gremlins like HVAC blower motor issues or sensor failures can occur on older vehicles. Window regulator failures have been reported.
Brand Origin:
South Korea
First Generation Introduction:
2000 (as Kia Optima/Lotze in some markets)
Second Generation Launch:
2005
Name Change Strategy:
Renamed Magentis in many markets to signify a more premium positioning compared to the previous Optima.
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (Hwaseong Plant)
Production Years:
2005-2010 (for this generation)
Value Awards:
KBB.com's 'Best Value' awards for its segment in previous years, highlighting its affordability and feature set.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Variable, with some model years showing average to above-average reliability, while others had specific reported issues. Comprehensive research on specific model year reliability is recommended.