Having started with 2 models for us North Americans to choose from, Kia currently offers a fairly comprehensive line-up including sedans, crossovers and hatchbacks. They've even got a V8 now, too.It was the Magentis that helped Kia make a mark in the mid-sized sedan segment back in the early part of this decade. It intended to compete with the likes of the
Honda Accord ,
Volkswagen Jetta and
Ford Fusion at a reasonable price.
Though it initially amounted to little more than a re-badged Hyundai Sonata, the Magentis was restyled and revamped for 2006. It rode a new global platform and boasted more confident and expressive styling.The Magentis was available in several trim levels and with one of two engine options - meaning that shoppers in the used market can expect to find a model that matches their exact taste and budget. Standard was a 2.4 litre four-cylinder engine with 161 horsepower and 163 lb.-ft of torque. This engine could be mated to a five-speed automatic or a five-speed manual , and boasted mileage figures between 6 and 10 L / 100km.There's also a 2.7 litre V6 engine available with 185 horsepower, though it comes mated only to a five-speed automatic. Front wheel drive is the name of the Magentis's game, in any case.Look for standard 16-inch wheels, a split-folding rear bench and air conditioning as standard. Kia installed front, side and curtain airbags, antilock brakes and four wheel discs with electronic brakeforce distribution on all models as well. A panic alarm and 3-point belts at all seats were also provided. Stability and traction control were available, and in all, it looks like the Magentis had its safety priorities in place.A power sunroof, tinted glass, automatic lights, cabin air filtration, remote entry and a tilt and telescopic steering column could be added, and higher end models even got a power driver's seat, leather, heated mirrors and automatic climate control. Wiper de-icers and power adjustable pedals could also be fitted.