Kia Optima

The face of the Optima features a chrome front grille strategically divided into two segments. The top half of the grille is bordered by HID headlights with auto levelling, while fog lights and LED daytime running lights are included in the lower front fascia. Two headlight washers have also been integrated below the headlights.

The rear view mirrors fold with the touch of a button to allow your Optima to fit into close spaces when parking. Turn-signal indicators are also integrated into the mirrors.

Continuing my walk around of the Optima I was especially impressed by the side view. The factory affixed 18-inch alloy sport rims are striking and will definitely turn heads. But the high point of the side view is the inclusion of bright chrome door moulding on the side fenders in front of the doors. It adds style to the Optima and amplifies its distinguished look. I also admire the chrome-plated door handles.

The Optima is equally as impressive from the rear, boasting dual exhaust mufflers with chrome tips. The LED taillights have been tested and proven to be brighter and more energy consuming than regular incandescent lights.

An inspection of the trunk revealed more than enough space needed for light, daily-luggage travel. I estimate that at least six fully packed suitcases can be accommodated and, if additional room is required, there is the option of flattening the rear passenger seats to create more.

The interior features, among other things, bluetooth wireless technology, USB auxiliary input jacks and push button start for smart key operation. The seat-memory mechanism is the defining aspect of the Optima's interior. The sedan boasts a six-way adjustable driver's seat and four-way power adjustable front passenger seats.

The Kia Optima also comes equipped with everything available at the driver's fingertips on the steering wheel, reducing the potential for driver distraction. Impressively, the Optima has a cooling glove box that offers the convenience of keeping items chilled throughout the drive - an especially useful feature in Jamaica's tropical climate. There is also a panoramic tilt/sliding sun and moon roof.

It was time to test the performance and handling of the full-sized sedan, powered by a 2.4 litre engine that returns 35 miles per gallon. Equipped with my checklist, I tested the Optima's hill ascend and descend abilities in Beverly Hills. There were no problems maneuvering the Optima around steep corners. The sedan performed well on the slopes, without any sign of dragging or steering wheel stiffness.

The driving experience on rough terrain - I drove along a section of unpaved roadway on Mountain View Avenue - was also commendable, even though there is no four-wheel drive mechanism.

The Optima accelerated and decelerated comfortably, without the 'thud' that some vehicles give off. The turning radius was impressive, as within seconds I was able to turn the vehicle around and head in the direction I was coming from.

As expected, the Optima did not go unnoticed, as several pedestrians and motorists stared throughout my test drive.

My only complaint was the low volume of the horn. Throughout the journey I was unsure if persons heard when I tooted, because I had trouble hearing the horn myself.