Kia Optima makes its UAE debut

Dubai: Al Majid Motors, sole distributors of Kia vehicles in the UAE, launched the new 2011 Kia Optima last week, their fourth launch this year and the second 2011 car.

The new Kia Optima, which made its international debut at the New York International Auto Show last April, will be available in four variants in the UAE: two in LX and two in EX transmissions.

It has a pricetag of Dh65,000 and Dh89,000.

Al Majid Motors Marketing and Business Development Manager Shehadeh Ahmad said: "Kia is now the fourth largest auto manufacturer in the world with market research indicating that Kia sales in the UAE are on the rise."

Ahmad said this year had been much better than 2009.

"If you compare this year with the first 10 months of 2009, we have a growth of 12 per cent in sales which is OK considering that the recession still has an effect," he said.

Ahmad said Kia's current market share was between five and seven per cent.

He said that if the banks' policies remained strict and did not change, then it would be hard for them to increase their market share this upcoming year.

"We are a small market with a lot of players. The piece of the pie is very small, so for a good market share you have to fight for it," he said.

"You've got only 20 per cent of the population can buy cars, so the competition is tough."

One of the challenges that car companies in the UAE face today is financing. Ahmad said "a little bit of flexibility" was needed as they were still suffering from strict policies for certain sectors.

"We are in discussion with one or two banks for some kind of mutual promotion," he said. "But it's still under discussion."

Cruise in comfort

The line-up of Kia's new Optima models will include a choice of two Theta II gasoline engines (covering a 165 to 180 power spread), and six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Optima's Theta engine range will comprise the 2.4 litre multi-point injection unit and a 2.0 litre version, both from Kia's Theta II family of gasoline engines.

Under the direction of Kia's Chief Design Officer Peter Schreyer, the third generation Kia Optima — which made its international debut at the New York International Auto Show in April — is a high performance sporty sedan that offers more space for people and cargo. It has a unique exterior with a driver-oriented interior, down-sized but more efficient engines with six-speed transmissions, a new and longer wheelbase platform, and high-tech options.

EX Optima models include dual-zone, automatic, climate-control airconditioning, floor console-mounted rear air vents (AT only), front fog lamps, upholstered centre console and armrests, keyless entry with alarm system, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever, outside mirror, LED turn signal, automatic folding outside mirrors and steering wheel, audio remote controls, a 60/40 split folding rear seat backrest and auto light control.

A new rear-view camera has also been fitted to assist drivers while undertaking reversing manoeuvres.