Connect with us

Kia Set to Launch a New-Generation Optima in New York

(Credit: © Kia)

Latest Car News

Kia Set to Launch a New-Generation Optima in New York

Next-Generation Kia Optima Teaser

Next-Generation Kia Optima Teaser (Credit: © Kia)

Just five years ago at the 2010 New York Auto Show, Kia revealed the completely redesigned Optima that we all know today. Now, as we head toward the April 1st opening of the 2015 New York Auto Show, Kia is set to reveal yet another redesigned Optima in the Big Apple.

From the teaser sketch that Kia released, this redesign looks a lot like an evolution of the current design language. The “Tiger Nose” grille is still present, as is the swooping roofline and the ports on the front fenders.

From what I can tell, it looks like this redesign will result in a sleeker and sportier-looking Optima. It looks as if Kia has shrunken the grille, redesigned the fog lights, revamped the lower portion of the front bumper, lengthened the hood, applied a sleeker rake to the windshield, and positioned the C-pillar farther toward the trunk for a more coupe-like design.

Altogether, this teaser sketch makes the Optima look simply amazing. Now, how much of this is actually part of the car and how much is artist interpretation is up for debate. We all know that automotive artists love exaggerating lines and so forth to make a car look sportier than it really is. I just hope that is not the case here.

Under the hood, look for the Optima to retain the same engine lineup, which includes a standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder, an optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, and an optional hybrid drivetrain. I do, however, expect to see some output tweaks to the two gasoline-only powertrains, as the 2.4-liter may get closer to 200 horsepower, and the 2.0-liter could finally crest the 275-horsepower mark. I could also see Kia introducing a dual-clutch transmission to help with performance and fuel economy.

We’ll find out soon enough, however, as the New York Auto Show is just a few weeks away.

Continue Reading
Click to comment

You must be logged in to post a comment Login

Leave a Reply

More in Latest Car News

SPONSORED

Newsletter

Get Our StoriesIn Your Inbox

Subscribe for our latest news, reviews, and lists.

Popular Stories

Recent Posts

SPONSORED
To Top