Kia Optima Platinum 2012 review

Kia set the bar high in its two spec levels for the Optima. The Si starts at $30,490 and the Platinum at $36,990.

The extra cost of the Platinum adds an Infinity premium sound system, heated and ventilated powered front seats, LED daytime running lamps and xenon headlights, 18-inch alloys, leather seat trim, sunroof and sportier bumpers. The front brake discs are also upgraded to 12.6 inches from 11.8-inches on the Si.

Technology

The smartest thing in the Optima is the suspension tune. But it is biased towards handling over ride comfort. The car still copes with carpark humps, mid-corner ruts and gouged surfaces with and is one of the reasons the Optima resonates with people who need a mid-sized car but still like the occasional fang. 

Explore the 2012 Kia Optima range

• Kia Optima GDI 2012 review
• Kia Optima Platinum 2012 review
• Kia Optima 2012 review

Those who don't should try its Hyundai stablemate, the i45. Direct injection is used to extract 148kW/250Nm from the Optima's 2.4-litre engine and power the front wheels via a six-speed automatic. That puts it up there with a Honda Accord Euro, Mazda6 and Ford Mondeo on ride and power — and it has the edge on fuel use.

Styling

European design is what Kia wants you to see in the Optima. It is aimed at those who want a Euro sedan but can't afford one. That helps explain the chrome around the window topss and grille. It adds to the lustre of the car and in the case of the Optima, there's plenty to like.

This is one of the biggest mid-sized sedans and there's leg and shoulder room to keep complaints from adults in the rear limited to critiques of your driving rather than the car.  The interior is understated and stylish, if not yet up to VW or Audi standards.

Safety

The reversing camera display integrated in the rear-view mirror is a great double act and reinforces the safety appeal of this car. Six airbags and the usual safety software earn it five stars from ANCAP.

Driving

The Kia is a genuine contender without being a class leader. Standout features are the modern looks and the interior/boot size and there is little to criticise. The steering doesn't have quite the feel of a Mazda6 but the wheels go where they're pointed and it is light around town. Response from the 2.4-litre is solid across the rev range even with five on board and road noise is minimal unless the engine is under serious load.

Verdict

Making a mid-sized car of this quality — and pricing it accordingly — shows Kia is a serious player. The Optima should be high on the list for anyone who needs space and style.