SEOUL: Kia has revealed the first and sole image of its all-new 2016 Kia Optima before it debuts at the upcoming New York Auto Show early next month, showcasing the mid-sized sedans new looks from the front.
Having released a few teaser sketches as well as previewing its SPORTSPACE concept at the Geneva Motor Show, the all-new Optima adopts more styling cues from the latter over the former.
At the front, the brand’s signature ‘Tiger Nose’ grille has been elongated, now linking the redesigned front headlights. A wider lower air intake is also visible as is the pair of smaller side intakes on both ends of the front bumper. From this angle at least, we spot a rising shoulder line of the car as well.
The all-new Optima will take on competition from Mazda 6, Hyundai i40, and Peugeot 508, all of which are available in wagon body styles, begging the question if Kia would consider putting the SPORTSPACE concept into production, which according to Australian site, Car Advice, looks likely to happen.
Kia is saying that the all-new Optima will be “instantly recognisable yet thoroughly fresh” and will also offer a number of technologies not previously offered. Although a vague statement, the company also mentions that the sedan will “feature a more spacious interior,” which is something worth looking forward to.
Multiple engine choices will be made available but no details have been given. Likely power plants include the regular petrol and diesel mills with a high possibility of a hybrid powertrain as demonstrated in the Kia Optima T-Hybrid Concept that was revealed five months ago.
