Adequate powertrain
When looking at the Magentis and sitting behind the wheel for the first time, you know performance will be typical of an ordinary family sedan. Obviously, this is no race car, but the Korean lady fares pretty well on the road, mind you.

The Kia magentis offers an engine that develops 162 horsepower.

Don't expect blistering accelerations from the 2.4L 4-cylinder mill. The latter, however, does a fine job day in, day out. Output is respectable (162 horsepower and 163 pounds-feet of torque) and I was satisfied with the overall fuel economy. The 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode proves subtle and effective.

Ride quality is generally good. Even though the suspension feels a bit dry, it works like it normally should to filter road imperfections... provided that you don't drive too fast. Handling is reasonable; after all, this car is not made to be driven to the limit -- and that's not what most owners will be looking for, either.

Likewise, steering precision is appropriate for a sedan like the Magentis. The same can be said of the turning radius. Finally, the brakes might not be powerful but they docilely perform what they're asked to.

Competition
Entry-level midsize sedans are one of the hottest vehicle segments in North America. Beyond the aforementioned Sonata GL Sport ($25,595), comparable rivals include the Mitsubishi Galant ES ($23,998) and Dodge Avenger SXT ($24,095) as well as more dynamic models like the Mazda6 GS ($24,495), Toyota Camry LE ($23,400), Ford Fusion SE ($23,899) and Honda Accord LX ($25,090).

Verdict
The 2008 Kia Magentis is fairly well-rounded, although there's nothing exciting about it. Given the available equipment, this car will get you from Point A to Point B rather uneventfully. The Magentis is designed with accessibility and efficiency in mind, thus offering hard-to-match value for the price. An interesting choice for small families and unhurried commuters.

This Korean sedan remains one of the most low-profile models in the entire auto industry.

Photo Credit : Matthieu Lambert