Kia Magentis MS
A value-driven executive saloon that marked Kia's entry into the European D-segment.
- Power
- 136 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.3 s
- Top speed
- 129 mph
- Est. value
- $800–$3k
About the Kia Magentis MS
The first-generation Kia Magentis, known as the MS series, was developed during Kia's integration with Hyundai and shared its platform with the fourth-generation Hyundai Sonata. In the UK and Europe, it was positioned as a budget-friendly alternative to established executive cars like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, offering high equipment levels for a lower entry price. The 2.0-litre LX trim provided a balance of modest performance and comfort, though it lacked the refinement of its European rivals. While not a collector's car, it represents a significant step in Kia's global expansion and transition toward more competitive, larger-format vehicles.
Kia Magentis MS specs
The Kia Magentis MS produces 136 bhp (101 kW) and 180 Nm (133 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.3 seconds and has a top speed of 129 mph (207 km/h).
| Make | Kia |
|---|---|
| Model | Magentis |
| Generation | MS |
| Trim | 2.0 LX |
| Years | 2000–2005 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | South Korea |
| Original price | About $16,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.0-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 136 bhp (101 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 180 Nm (133 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 10.3 s |
| Top speed | 129 mph (207 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,478 kg (3,258 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 92 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Kia Magentis MS worth?
A typical Kia Magentis MS is estimated to be worth $800 – $2,500 (about £597 – £1,900).
Its original price when new was about $16,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Kia Magentis MS rarity in CarSpot
The Kia Magentis MS is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Kia Magentis MS fun facts
- In North America, this car was sold as the Kia Optima, a nameplate that would eventually replace the Magentis moniker globally.
- The Magentis featured a distinctive 'waterfall' chrome grille and quad-headlight design intended to give it a more premium, traditional executive appearance.
- Despite its budget positioning, the Magentis was praised for its generous interior space and standard features like air conditioning and electric windows.
