Market Position:
The 2011 Kia Optima (TF) was Kia's entry into the mid-size sedan segment, competing against established players like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Ford Fusion. It aimed to offer stylish design, good value, and modern features.
Competitive Analysis:
The TF Optima was praised for its European-influenced design, a significant departure from previous Kia models. Its available turbocharged engine and strong feature set, including the navigation system covered by this manual, helped it stand out.
Key Features:
• Distinctive 'Tiger Nose' grille
• Sleek, coupe-like profile
• Available turbocharged 2.0L GDI engine
• User-friendly infotainment system with navigation
• Good fuel economy for its class
• Impressive warranty coverage
Key Features Navigation:
Integrated navigation, Bluetooth, rearview camera display, and other infotainment functions.
Coverage Areas:
• Introduction
• Instrumentation
• Controls and Features
• Starting and Driving
• Maintenance and Care
• Specifications
Page Count:
Estimated 150-250 pages (typical for a factory navigation manual of this era)
Manual Type:
Navigation System Owner's Manual
Device Compatibility:
Compatible with any device capable of reading PDF files (desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones).
Systems Covered:
• Navigation System Operation
• Infotainment System Interface
• Audio System Integration
• Bluetooth Connectivity
• Voice Recognition System
• Display and Control Unit
• Map Data and POIs
• Route Planning and Guidance
• System Settings and Customization
• Troubleshooting Basic Navigation Issues
Audio System Integration:
How the navigation system interfaces with the car's audio system, including volume control, source selection, and audio settings.
Procedures Included:
• Powering the system on/off
• Basic navigation input (address, POI)
• Understanding the display icons and indicators
• Adjusting volume and audio settings
• Pairing a Bluetooth device
• Making and receiving calls via Bluetooth
• Using voice commands
• Setting up and customizing navigation preferences
• Interpreting route guidance
• Performing basic system resets
• Understanding safety warnings related to navigation use
Route Planning Guidance:
Detailed steps on how to plan a route, add waypoints, select route preferences (fastest, shortest), and follow turn-by-turn directions.
Technical Depth:
Operational guide for users, focusing on functionality and everyday use of the navigation system. Does not include in-depth electronic diagnostics or repair procedures for the navigation unit itself.
Technical Depth Detail:
Focuses on 'how-to' for the end-user, covering system menus, options, and common interactions. Information is presented visually with diagrams and step-by-step instructions.
Primary Engine:
2.4L Inline-4 GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection)
Horsepower:
Approx. 200 hp @ 6,300 rpm (for the 2.4L engine)
Torque:
Approx. 186 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm (for the 2.4L engine)
Fuel System:
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Optional Engine:
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 GDI
Turbo Horsepower:
Approx. 274 hp @ 6,000 rpm (for the 2.0T engine)
Turbo Torque:
Approx. 269 lb-ft @ 1,750-4,500 rpm (for the 2.0T engine)
Emissions Standard:
EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 / California LEV-II
Standard Transmission:
6-speed automatic with Sportmatic (available on most trims)
Optional Transmission:
6-speed manual (available on select trims, typically base models)
Transmission Features:
Sportmatic sequential shift control, electronically controlled
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.7 quarts (7.3 liters) (check manual for exact capacity)
Length:
Approx. 190.7 inches (4,844 mm)
Width:
Approx. 72.1 inches (1,831 mm)
Height:
Approx. 57.3 inches (1,455 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 110.0 inches (2,794 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 62.0 inches (1,575 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 61.8 inches (1,570 mm)
Front Headroom:
Approx. 40.0 inches (1,016 mm)
Rear Legroom:
Approx. 37.7 inches (958 mm)
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 15.4 cubic feet (436 liters)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,290 - 3,540 lbs (1,492 - 1,606 kg) (depending on trim and engine)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,477 lbs (2,031 kg) (typical for 2.4L)
Front Axle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2,138 lbs (970 kg) (typical)
Rear Axle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2,339 lbs (1,061 kg) (typical)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5 Stars (Overall, Frontal, Side)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (2011 model year)
Active Safety Features:
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
• Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
• Brake Assist System (BAS)
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Active Safety Features Detail:
Systems designed to prevent accidents or reduce their severity by actively intervening.
Passive Safety Features:
• Dual front airbags
• Front side-impact airbags
• Full-length side curtain airbags
• Active front headrests
• Front and rear crumple zones
Infotainment System:
Optional touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth, and USB/Auxiliary inputs.
Display Size:
Typically 7-inch touchscreen for navigation-equipped models.
Driver Assistance Features:
• Rear parking sensors (optional)
• Back-up camera (optional, integrated with navigation screen)
Driver Assistance Features Detail:
Features that aid the driver in parking or maneuvering, enhancing safety and convenience.
Connectivity Options:
• Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming
• USB port for media playback and device charging
• Auxiliary audio input jack
Convenience Features:
• Push-button start with smart key
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Heated and ventilated front seats (optional)
• Power-adjustable driver's seat
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified synthetic blend or full synthetic oil
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) for 2.4L engine (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Engine Coolant - Blue (Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Refer to owner's manual for specific fluid, likely a specific type for electric power steering (EPS) systems, or inspect reservoir for type.
Known Issues For Model Year:
• Reports of knocking sounds from the engine, potentially related to GDI carbon buildup.
• Occasional issues with power steering, sometimes linked to the electric power steering (EPS) system.
• Some owners have reported premature wear on suspension components.
• Infotainment system glitches, though typically resolved with software updates or system resets.
Known Issues Detail:
These are common reported issues; not all vehicles will experience them. The manual itself won't detail these, but understanding them is crucial for owners.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
26300-02500 (Kia Genuine)
Brand Heritage:
Kia, founded in 1944, began as a manufacturer of steel tubing and bicycle parts. It moved into motorcycle production in the 1950s and then into commercial vehicles and eventually passenger cars in the late 1970s and 1980s. Kia's global expansion and significant product improvement gained momentum in the 1990s and 2000s, especially after becoming part of the Hyundai Motor Group.
Model Evolution:
The Optima (known as the Lotze/Magentis in some markets) replaced the Kia Clarus. The 2011 model marked the debut of the third generation (TF) Optima, designed by Peter Schreyer, which significantly elevated its design and market perception. This generation was built on a shared platform with the Hyundai Sonata.
Production Location:
Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea
Production Years For Model:
2010-2013 (TF Generation)