Target Audience:
Consumers seeking a stylish, well-equipped, and performance-oriented sedan with a focus on value.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu
Styling:
Sleek, European-inspired design (Peter Schreyer influence)
Powertrain Option:
Powerful 2.0L Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection (T-GDI) engine offering a good balance of performance and efficiency.
Value Proposition:
Competitive pricing, extensive feature set, and a strong warranty (at time of sale).
Powertrain:
Engine, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual if applicable)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system, wheels and tires
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instruments and gauges, infotainment, power accessories, engine control module (ECM) and related wiring diagrams
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, climate control system (HVAC)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly of major systems
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, alignment data, electrical resistance values
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls, including diagnostic procedures for electronic systems.
Engine Name:
Theta II GDI Turbo
Engine Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC, 16 valves, Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT)
Aspiration:
Turbocharged, Intercooled
Horsepower:
274 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
269 lb-ft (365 Nm) @ 1800-4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
18.5 gallons (70 liters)
Transmission Type Standard:
6-speed Automatic Transmission (6AT)
Transmission Type Optional:
N/A for 2.0 T-GDI in North America for 2011 model year
Transmission Features:
Sportmatic Shifter (manual shift capability)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
SPIII or SP-IV (consult manual for exact specification and capacity)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-Star (for 2011 model year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for 2011 model year)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard
Traction Control:
Standard
Antilock Braking System:
Standard
Electronic Brake Force Distribution:
Standard
Airbags Front:
Dual front advanced airbags
Airbags Side:
Front side-impact airbags
Airbags Curtain:
Full-length side curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point active seat-belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Infotainment System:
Optional premium audio systems, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/iPod integration available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
Backup camera (on some trims), parking sensors (optional), cruise control.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input, USB port, Bluetooth hands-free calling.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions - refer to manual for severe conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles (19,000 km) or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for the 2.0 T-GDI, consult manual for exact type and interval.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30, API SM/SN or ILSAC GF-4/GF-5 synthetic engine oil
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.8 U.S. quarts (4.6 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based, long-life coolant (e.g., HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), typically pink or orange
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 U.S. quarts (7.1 liters)
Potential Issues 2.0 T-Gdi:
Occasional turbocharger issues, carbon buildup in intake valves (due to direct injection), possible piston ring wear in early models, and potential oil consumption concerns. These are addressed in detail within the manual.
Electrical Gremlins:
Some owners have reported minor electrical issues, such as sensor malfunctions or infotainment system glitches, which are usually covered by diagnostic procedures in the manual.
Brand Focus:
Kia, a South Korean automaker, has a history of producing reliable and increasingly stylish vehicles, often offering strong value for money.
Generation:
This 2011 model represents the introduction of the second generation (TF/QF) Kia Optima, a significant redesign from the previous model, showcasing Kia's global design direction.
Production Location:
Hwaseong, South Korea
Production Years:
2010-2015 (for the TF/QF generation)
Auto Guide Best Family Car:
The Kia Optima (including the 2.0 T-GDI variant) was recognized by AutoGuide.com as a contender for Best Family Car in 2011, highlighting its practicality and comfort.
Kbb Best Resale Value:
While specific awards for the 2011 model year vary, Kia vehicles have generally performed well in resale value discussions, indicating owner satisfaction.
