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KIA Optima / Magentis 2001-2003 Photos, engines & full specs

Segment: Medium
Production years: 2001, 2002, 2003

KIA Optima / Magentis 2001-2003 2 Photos
KIA Optima / Magentis (2001-2003)KIA Optima / Magentis (2001-2003)

Kia started to improve its lineup and introduced the Optima/Magentis in 2001 as a 2002 model for specific markets.

After years of offering simple, modest vehicles, Kia launched an assault on the mid-size segment with the Optima, which was also known as Magentis outside the U.S. The Korean carmaker was part of the Hyundai group and used the same platform as the fourth generation of the Sonata. It was a surprising move that gets them into more families' garages. Even though it cost twice as much as the Kia Rio sedan, it was still cheaper than the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry.

From the outside, the Optima/Magentis surprised with its angular-looking headlights, while the biodesign era was not completely over. They tried a new-edge design, and it worked well. Some might say that the car looked even better than its sister, the fourth Sonata, with or without a facelift. Its chromed grille looked upmarket, even though it was not even close to the premium segment. Its only downside was the wheels' size, which was only 14" with an option for 15" light-alloy.

Inside, there was enough room for four adult passengers, thanks to its 2.7 meter (106.3") wheelbase. Depending on the engine version and trim level, Kia offered an automatic transmission, leather seats, and sunroof. The standard features list was long and included AC, split-folding rear seats (even though it was a sedan), side airbags, and power windows.

Under the hood, Kia dropped a 2.4-liter inline-four and a 2.7-liter V6. Both were paired as standard to a 5-speed manual transmission and an option for a four-speed automatic. The independent suspension in all corners was another good feature to ad more comfort.

KIA Optima / Magentis 2001, 2002, 2003
  12 gasoline engines
  • 1.8L 4AT FWD (134 HP)
  • 1.8L 5MT FWD (134 HP)
  • 2.0L 16V 4AT FWD (136 HP)
  • 2.0L 16V 5MT FWD (136 HP)
  • 2.0L 4AT FWD (149 HP)
  • 2.0L 5MT FWD (149 HP)
  • 2.5L V6 4AT FWD (169 HP)
  • 2.5L V6 5MT FWD (169 HP)
  • LX 2.4L 4AT FWD (151 HP)
  • LX 2.4L 5MT FWD (151 HP)
  • LX 2.5L V6 4AT FWD (172 HP)
  • LX 2.7L V6 4AT FWD (181 HP)

KIA Optima / Magentis
1.8L 4AT FWD (134 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - 1.8L 4AT FWD (134 HP)
Cylinders:L4
Displacement:1836 cm3
Power:98.6 KW @ 6000 RPM
134 HP @ 6000 RPM
132 BHP @ 6000 RPM
Torque:125 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM
169 Nm @ 4500 RPM
Fuel System:Multipoint Injection
Fuel:Gasoline
Fuel capacity:17.2 gallons (65.1 L)
TRANSMISSION SPECS
Drive Type:Front Wheel Drive
Gearbox:4-speed automatic
BRAKES SPECS
Front:Ventilated Discs
Rear:Discs
TIRES SPECS
Tire Size:195/70/R14
DIMENSIONS
Length:185.82 in (4720 mm)
Width:71.65 in (1820 mm)
Height:55.51 in (1410 mm)
Front/rear Track:60.62/59.84 in (1,540/1,520 mm)
Wheelbase:106.29 in (2700 mm)
Ground Clearance:6.1 in (155 mm)
Cargo Volume:13.6 cuFT (385 L)
Aerodynamics (Cd):0.34
WEIGHT SPECS
Unladen Weight:2954 lbs (1340 kg)

KIA Optima / Magentis
1.8L 5MT FWD (134 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - 1.8L 5MT FWD (134 HP)
Cylinders:L4
Displacement:1836 cm3
Power:98.6 KW @ 6000 RPM
134 HP @ 6000 RPM
132 BHP @ 6000 RPM
Torque:125 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM
169 Nm @ 4500 RPM
Fuel System:Multipoint Injection
Fuel:Gasoline
Fuel capacity:17.2 gallons (65.1 L)
TRANSMISSION SPECS
Drive Type:Front Wheel Drive
Gearbox:5-speed manual
BRAKES SPECS
Front:Ventilated Discs
Rear:Discs
TIRES SPECS
Tire Size:195/70/R14
DIMENSIONS
Length:185.82 in (4720 mm)
Width:71.65 in (1820 mm)
Height:55.51 in (1410 mm)
Front/rear Track:60.62/59.84 in (1,540/1,520 mm)
Wheelbase:106.29 in (2700 mm)
Ground Clearance:6.1 in (155 mm)
Cargo Volume:13.6 cuFT (385 L)
Aerodynamics (Cd):0.34
WEIGHT SPECS
Unladen Weight:2910 lbs (1320 kg)

KIA Optima / Magentis
2.0L 16V 4AT FWD (136 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - 2.0L 16V 4AT FWD (136 HP)
Cylinders:L4
Displacement:1997 cm3
Power:100 KW @ 6000 RPM
136 HP @ 6000 RPM
134 BHP @ 6000 RPM
Torque:136 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM
184 Nm @ 4500 RPM
Fuel System:Multipoint Injection
Fuel:Gasoline
Fuel capacity:17.2 gallons (65.1 L)
PERFORMANCE SPECS
Top Speed:121 mph (195 km/h)
Acceleration 0-62 Mph (0-100 kph):10.6 s
TRANSMISSION SPECS
Drive Type:Front Wheel Drive
Gearbox:4-speed automatic
BRAKES SPECS
Front:Ventilated Discs
Rear:Discs
TIRES SPECS
Tire Size:195/70/R14
DIMENSIONS
Length:185.82 in (4720 mm)
Width:71.65 in (1820 mm)
Height:55.51 in (1410 mm)
Front/rear Track:60.62/59.84 in (1,540/1,520 mm)
Wheelbase:106.29 in (2700 mm)
Ground Clearance:6.1 in (155 mm)
Cargo Volume:13.6 cuFT (385 L)
Aerodynamics (Cd):0.34
WEIGHT SPECS
Unladen Weight:3258 lbs (1478 kg)
Gross Weight Limit:4376.2 lbs (1985 kg)
FUEL ECONOMY (NEDC)
City:18 mpg US (13.1 L/100Km)
Highway:30.5 mpg US (7.7 L/100Km)
Combined:24.2 mpg US (9.7 L/100Km)

KIA Optima / Magentis
2.0L 16V 5MT FWD (136 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - 2.0L 16V 5MT FWD (136 HP)
Cylinders:L4
Displacement:1997 cm3
Power:100 KW @ 6000 RPM
136 HP @ 6000 RPM
134 BHP @ 6000 RPM
Torque:136 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM
184 Nm @ 4500 RPM
Fuel System:Multipoint Injection
Fuel:Gasoline
Fuel capacity:17.2 gallons (65.1 L)
PERFORMANCE SPECS
Top Speed:128.6 mph (207 km/h)
Acceleration 0-62 Mph (0-100 kph):11.5 s
TRANSMISSION SPECS
Drive Type:Front Wheel Drive
Gearbox:5-Speed manual
BRAKES SPECS
Front:Ventilated Discs
Rear:Discs
TIRES SPECS
Tire Size:195/70R14
DIMENSIONS
Length:185.82 in (4720 mm)
Width:71.65 in (1820 mm)
Height:55.51 in (1410 mm)
Front/rear Track:60.62/59.84 in (1,540/1,520 mm)
Wheelbase:106.29 in (2700 mm)
Ground Clearance:6.1 in (155 mm)
Cargo Volume:13.6 cuFT (385 L)
Aerodynamics (Cd):0.34
WEIGHT SPECS
Unladen Weight:3038 lbs (1378 kg)
Gross Weight Limit:4376.2 lbs (1985 kg)
FUEL ECONOMY (NEDC)
City:18.7 mpg US (12.6 L/100Km)
Highway:33.1 mpg US (7.1 L/100Km)
Combined:25.8 mpg US (9.1 L/100Km)
CO2 Emissions:207 g/km

KIA Optima / Magentis
2.0L 4AT FWD (149 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - 2.0L 4AT FWD (149 HP)
Cylinders:L4
Displacement:1997 cm3
Power:109.6 KW @ 6000 RPM
149 HP @ 6000 RPM
147 BHP @ 6000 RPM
Torque:142 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM
193 Nm @ 4500 RPM
Fuel System:Multipoint Injection
Fuel:Gasoline
Fuel capacity:17.2 gallons (65.1 L)
TRANSMISSION SPECS
Drive Type:Front Wheel Drive
Gearbox:4-speed automatic
BRAKES SPECS
Front:Ventilated Discs
Rear:Discs
TIRES SPECS
Tire Size:195/70/R14
DIMENSIONS
Length:185.82 in (4720 mm)
Width:71.65 in (1820 mm)
Height:55.51 in (1410 mm)
Front/rear Track:60.62/59.84 in (1,540/1,520 mm)
Wheelbase:106.29 in (2700 mm)
Ground Clearance:6.1 in (155 mm)
Cargo Volume:13.6 cuFT (385 L)
Aerodynamics (Cd):0.34
WEIGHT SPECS
Unladen Weight:2943 lbs (1335 kg)
Gross Weight Limit:4376 lbs (1985 kg)

KIA Optima / Magentis
2.0L 5MT FWD (149 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - 2.0L 5MT FWD (149 HP)
Cylinders:L4
Displacement:1997 cm3
Power:109.6 KW @ 6000 RPM
149 HP @ 6000 RPM
147 BHP @ 6000 RPM
Torque:142 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM
193 Nm @ 4500 RPM
Fuel System:Multipoint Injection
Fuel:Gasoline
Fuel capacity:17.2 gallons (65.1 L)
TRANSMISSION SPECS
Drive Type:Front Wheel Drive
Gearbox:5-speed manual
BRAKES SPECS
Front:Ventilated Discs
Rear:Discs
TIRES SPECS
Tire Size:195/70/R14
DIMENSIONS
Length:185.82 in (4720 mm)
Width:71.65 in (1820 mm)
Height:55.51 in (1410 mm)
Front/rear Track:60.62/59.84 in (1,540/1,520 mm)
Wheelbase:106.29 in (2700 mm)
Ground Clearance:6.1 in (155 mm)
Cargo Volume:13.6 cuFT (385 L)
Aerodynamics (Cd):0.34
WEIGHT SPECS
Unladen Weight:2943 lbs (1335 kg)
Gross Weight Limit:4376 lbs (1985 kg)

KIA Optima / Magentis
2.5L V6 4AT FWD (169 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - 2.5L V6 4AT FWD (169 HP)
Cylinders:V6
Displacement:2493 cm3
Power:124 KW @ 6000 RPM
169 HP @ 6000 RPM
166 BHP @ 6000 RPM
Torque:173 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM
234 Nm @ 4000 RPM
Fuel System:Multipoint Injection
Fuel:Gasoline
PERFORMANCE SPECS
Top Speed:130 mph (209 km/h)
Acceleration 0-62 Mph (0-100 kph):8.8 s
TRANSMISSION SPECS
Drive Type:Front Wheel Drive
Gearbox:4-speed automatic
BRAKES SPECS
Front:Ventilated Discs
Rear:Discs
TIRES SPECS
Tire Size:195/70R14
DIMENSIONS
Length:185.82 in (4720 mm)
Width:71.65 in (1820 mm)
Height:55.51 in (1410 mm)
Front/rear Track:60.62/59.84 in (1,540/1,520 mm)
Wheelbase:106.29 in (2700 mm)
Ground Clearance:6.1 in (155 mm)
Cargo Volume:13.6 cuFT (385 L)
Aerodynamics (Cd):0.34
WEIGHT SPECS
Unladen Weight:3296 lbs (1495 kg)
Gross Weight Limit:4090 lbs (1855 kg)
FUEL ECONOMY (NEDC)
City:15.5 mpg US (15.2 L/100Km)
Highway:30.9 mpg US (7.6 L/100Km)
Combined:22.6 mpg US (10.4 L/100Km)

KIA Optima / Magentis
2.5L V6 5MT FWD (169 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - 2.5L V6 5MT FWD (169 HP)
Cylinders:V6
Displacement:2493 cm3
Power:124 KW @ 6000 RPM
169 HP @ 6000 RPM
166 BHP @ 6000 RPM
Torque:173 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM
234 Nm @ 4000 RPM
Fuel System:Multipoint Injection
Fuel:Gasoline
PERFORMANCE SPECS
Top Speed:132.97 mph (214 km/h)
Acceleration 0-62 Mph (0-100 kph):8.5 s
TRANSMISSION SPECS
Drive Type:Front Wheel Drive
Gearbox:5-Speed manual
BRAKES SPECS
Front:Ventilated Discs
Rear:Discs
TIRES SPECS
Tire Size:195/70R14
DIMENSIONS
Length:185.82 in (4720 mm)
Width:71.65 in (1820 mm)
Height:55.51 in (1410 mm)
Front/rear Track:60.62/59.84 in (1,540/1,520 mm)
Wheelbase:106.29 in (2700 mm)
Ground Clearance:6.1 in (155 mm)
Cargo Volume:13.6 cuFT (385 L)
Aerodynamics (Cd):0.34
WEIGHT SPECS
Unladen Weight:3057.8 lbs (1387 kg)
Gross Weight Limit:4376.2 lbs (1985 kg)
FUEL ECONOMY (NEDC)
City:17.9 mpg US (13.1 L/100Km)
Highway:30.5 mpg US (7.7 L/100Km)
Combined:24.2 mpg US (9.7 L/100Km)
CO2 Emissions:214 g/km

KIA Optima / Magentis
LX 2.4L 4AT FWD (151 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - LX 2.4L 4AT FWD (151 HP)
Cylinders:L4
Displacement:2351 cm3
Power:111.1 KW @ 6000 RPM
151 HP @ 6000 RPM
149 BHP @ 6000 RPM
Torque:159 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM
216 Nm @ 4500 RPM
Fuel System:Multipoint Injection Naturally aspirated
Fuel:Gasoline
Fuel capacity:17.2 gallons (65.1 L)
TRANSMISSION SPECS
Drive Type:Front Wheel Drive
Gearbox:4-speed automatic
BRAKES SPECS
Front:Ventilated Discs
Rear:Discs
TIRES SPECS
Tire Size:195/70/R14
DIMENSIONS
Length:185.82 in (4720 mm)
Width:71.65 in (1820 mm)
Height:55.51 in (1410 mm)
Front/rear Track:60.62/59.84 in (1,540/1,520 mm)
Wheelbase:106.29 in (2700 mm)
Ground Clearance:6.1 in (155 mm)
Cargo Volume:13.6 cuFT (385 L)
Aerodynamics (Cd):0.34
WEIGHT SPECS
Unladen Weight:3285 lbs (1490 kg)
Gross Weight Limit:4156 lbs (1885 kg)

KIA Optima / Magentis
LX 2.4L 5MT FWD (151 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - LX 2.4L 5MT FWD (151 HP)
Cylinders:L4
Displacement:2351 cm3
Power:111.1 KW @ 6000 RPM
151 HP @ 6000 RPM
149 BHP @ 6000 RPM
Torque:159 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM
216 Nm @ 4500 RPM
Fuel System:Multipoint Injection Naturally aspirated
Fuel:Gasoline
Fuel capacity:17.2 gallons (65.1 L)
TRANSMISSION SPECS
Drive Type:Front Wheel Drive
Gearbox:5-speed manual
BRAKES SPECS
Front:Ventilated Discs
Rear:Discs
TIRES SPECS
Tire Size:195/70/R14
DIMENSIONS
Length:185.82 in (4720 mm)
Width:71.65 in (1820 mm)
Height:55.51 in (1410 mm)
Front/rear Track:60.62/59.84 in (1,540/1,520 mm)
Wheelbase:106.29 in (2700 mm)
Ground Clearance:6.1 in (155 mm)
Cargo Volume:13.6 cuFT (385 L)
Aerodynamics (Cd):0.34
WEIGHT SPECS
Unladen Weight:3252 lbs (1475 kg)
Gross Weight Limit:4123 lbs (1870 kg)

KIA Optima / Magentis
LX 2.5L V6 4AT FWD (172 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - LX 2.5L V6 4AT FWD (172 HP)
Cylinders:V6
Displacement:2494 cm3
Power:126.5 KW @ 6000 RPM
172 HP @ 6000 RPM
170 BHP @ 6000 RPM
Torque:169 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM
229 Nm @ 4500 RPM
Fuel System:Multipoint Injection Naturally aspirated
Fuel:Gasoline
Fuel capacity:17.2 gallons (65.1 L)
TRANSMISSION SPECS
Drive Type:Front Wheel Drive
Gearbox:4-speed automatic
BRAKES SPECS
Front:Ventilated Discs
Rear:Discs
TIRES SPECS
Tire Size:195/70/R14
DIMENSIONS
Length:185.82 in (4720 mm)
Width:71.65 in (1820 mm)
Height:55.51 in (1410 mm)
Front/rear Track:60.62/59.84 in (1,540/1,520 mm)
Wheelbase:106.29 in (2700 mm)
Ground Clearance:6.1 in (155 mm)
Cargo Volume:13.6 cuFT (385 L)
Aerodynamics (Cd):0.34
WEIGHT SPECS
Unladen Weight:3296 lbs (1495 kg)
Gross Weight Limit:4090 lbs (1855 kg)

KIA Optima / Magentis
LX 2.7L V6 4AT FWD (181 HP)

ENGINE SPECS - LX 2.7L V6 4AT FWD (181 HP)
Cylinders:V6
Displacement:2656 cm3
Power:133.1 KW @ 6000 RPM
181 HP @ 6000 RPM
178 BHP @ 6000 RPM
Torque:181 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM
245 Nm @ 4000 RPM
Fuel System:Multipoint Injection Naturally aspirated
Fuel:Gasoline
Fuel capacity:17.2 gallons (65.1 L)
TRANSMISSION SPECS
Drive Type:Front Wheel Drive
Gearbox:4-speed automatic
BRAKES SPECS
Front:Ventilated Discs
Rear:Discs
TIRES SPECS
Tire Size:195/70/R14
DIMENSIONS
Length:185.82 in (4720 mm)
Width:71.65 in (1820 mm)
Height:55.51 in (1410 mm)
Front/rear Track:60.62/59.84 in (1,540/1,520 mm)
Wheelbase:106.29 in (2700 mm)
Ground Clearance:6.1 in (155 mm)
Cargo Volume:13.6 cuFT (385 L)
Aerodynamics (Cd):0.34
WEIGHT SPECS
Unladen Weight:3190 lbs (1447 kg)
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