2016 Kia Optima Looks Awesome

These sketches are our first teaser glimpse at the production version of Kia's new generation Optima sedan, due for a world premiere at the New York Auto Show on April 1. 

Naturally, as with all teaser sketches, they're a bit on the optimistic side – heck, the Optima here looks more aggressive than the Geneva Motor Show Sport Space concept that hinted at the design direction for the mid-size sedan as well as a possible estate addition to the range. 

What we'll take from these official renderings is the more sculpted sides and the pronounced wheel arches together with the more angled rear window and a glasshouse that has a strong resemblance to the current model that was introduced at the 2010 NY Auto Show. 

The only piece of information we get from Kia is that the new Optima was "passionately designed and obsessively crafted". 

We do know that it will share its platform with the latest Hyundai Sonata, so it should offer a similar engine lineup in North America, including a 1.6-liter turbo, a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four and a 2.0-liter turbocharged unit.

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Kia Sportspace Concept

Kia’s beautiful Sportspace Concept is without a doubt the star of the automaker’s Geneva Motor Show booth.

In the absence of any official reference to a future production model inspired by this D-segment study, the most logical speculation is that it previews the next-generation Kia Optima. 

Whether the upcoming Optima will get an estate version it remains to be seen, but it’s pretty clear this study will not be shelved after the Geneva Motor Show closes its gates. It’s definitely one of those pre-production studies automakers have accustomed us to in recent years.

Designed at Kia’s Frankfurt design studio, under the direction of Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer Europe, the Sportspace offers “stylish and exciting transportation” for four passengers, “without sacrificing the performance, sustainability and economy that Kia is known for.”

Kia refuses to categorize the Sportspace, saying it is neither a saloon nor a wagon, neither a hatchback nor a shooting brake. So what is it then? In Kia’s own words, “a vehicle that can meet the demands of those who refuse to be categorized when it comes to their lifestyle or their motoring needs.” 

Let’s say that settles it and end this story by adding that no details were offered about the car’s powertrain. 

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2012 Kia Optima SX Limited Edition

 SX adding a little bling to the mix with new 18-inch chromed alloy wheels, a chrome-accented rear spoiler, LED daytime running lights and red front-brake calipers.

It is available exclusively in three exterior colors including Ebony Black, Snow White Pearl and Titanium Metallic.

Inside, the Limited treatment brings black or white Nappa leather for the seats, door panels, center console armrest and center fascia trim along with wooden accents, on the steering wheel, interior door trim and shift knob. In addition, the headliner, sun visors, and all pillars are dressed in a black tricot fabric.

Standard amenities include unique steering wheel paddle shifters, metal pedals, illuminated door scuff plates, a panoramic sunroof, four-way power front passenger's seat, heated/cooled front seats, heated rear seats, a navigation system with back-up camera and a higher end audio system.

Sales of the new Optima SX Limited will start in March with pricing to be announced soon.

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