The two Japanese models get the better of their Korean counterpart in the interior design department though. The Magentis is anything but emotional. The overabundance of black plastic gives the impression that you’re riding in a taxi. The layout of the controls is ok from an ergonomic point of view, but as for flair, well, let’s just say we can’t wait to see what surprises Peter Schreyer has in store for us.
A (curiously) diverse lineup
Considering its very mediocre success, it’s astounding to see that there are no less than five variants of the 2009 Magentis: three of them powered by a 4-cylinder affair and two by a V6. As if that weren’t enough, the automaker offers two of these variants with optional equipment packages.
We got to test drive the LX-V6 (LX for luxury, naturally), which was further enhanced with the optional “Luxury” package. Enough luxury for you?
With its opulent trimmings, our 2009 Magentis was hot on the heels of the high-end SX-V6. Among its features were automatic windshield wipers, leather seating, aluminum insets (that somewhat enhanced the appeal of the dash, I have to admit), automatic climate control, adjustable pedals and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Lively engine
The 194-hp V6 of our Magentis turned out accelerations (0 to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds) and throttle response worthy of a family car.
The five-speed automatic Steptronic transmission proved that much smoother when equipped with a sequential mode. It was even accompanied by steering wheel paddles.
And as for the suspension, it did a good job disguising the irregularities of the road. Its settings clearly emphasize comfort, sometimes at the expense of a ride that could have been sportier (especially with the Steptronic transmission). Steering also proved too light and not precise enough. But should we be asking so much from a family-oriented sedan?
After all, when you choose the V6 version of this Kia you’re not looking for exceptionally punchy throttle response. Barely 19 ponies separate it from the 4-cylinder engine. Rather, you choose it for its greater torque, evidence of a smoother, more relaxing ride. One that you have to pay for in fuel consumption (+12%).
But since there’s room to negotiate, when choosing a Magentis, buyers can hope to counterbalance the potential increase in fuel costs by the better price they’ll have commandeered!
photo:Luc Gagné
A (curiously) diverse lineup
Considering its very mediocre success, it’s astounding to see that there are no less than five variants of the 2009 Magentis: three of them powered by a 4-cylinder affair and two by a V6. As if that weren’t enough, the automaker offers two of these variants with optional equipment packages.
We got to test drive the LX-V6 (LX for luxury, naturally), which was further enhanced with the optional “Luxury” package. Enough luxury for you?
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| The 2.7-litre V6 produces nearly 200 hp. |
With its opulent trimmings, our 2009 Magentis was hot on the heels of the high-end SX-V6. Among its features were automatic windshield wipers, leather seating, aluminum insets (that somewhat enhanced the appeal of the dash, I have to admit), automatic climate control, adjustable pedals and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Lively engine
The 194-hp V6 of our Magentis turned out accelerations (0 to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds) and throttle response worthy of a family car.
The five-speed automatic Steptronic transmission proved that much smoother when equipped with a sequential mode. It was even accompanied by steering wheel paddles.
And as for the suspension, it did a good job disguising the irregularities of the road. Its settings clearly emphasize comfort, sometimes at the expense of a ride that could have been sportier (especially with the Steptronic transmission). Steering also proved too light and not precise enough. But should we be asking so much from a family-oriented sedan?
After all, when you choose the V6 version of this Kia you’re not looking for exceptionally punchy throttle response. Barely 19 ponies separate it from the 4-cylinder engine. Rather, you choose it for its greater torque, evidence of a smoother, more relaxing ride. One that you have to pay for in fuel consumption (+12%).
But since there’s room to negotiate, when choosing a Magentis, buyers can hope to counterbalance the potential increase in fuel costs by the better price they’ll have commandeered!
photo:Luc Gagné
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