Kia’s head office in South Korea has revealed its facelifted Optima sedan, ahead of its launch in New Zealand later this year.
The upgraded four-door gets a new look front and rear along with technology updates, including Kia’s latest infotainment system.
Up front, the design of the Optima’s slim ‘Tiger nose’ grille pretty much remains, although it now has vertical slats.
The new front bumper gets a lower apron and LED strips in place of the outgoing Optima’s fog lights.
At the rear, there are revised LED tail-lights and relocated reflectors in the bumper, among other slight changes.
As expected, the cabin has been tweaked and includes new trim and LED ambient lighting. A quilted leather steering wheel is among the South Korean options.
It is not known yet what technology will filter through to the NZ models, but the South Korean Optima – known as the K5 – gets a surround-view camera system and adaptive cruise control with lane assist for semi-autonomous driving on motorways.
Nor is it known if Kia Motors NZ general manager Todd McDonald will present three new-look Optima models, like the current offering of EX, Limited, and GT.
Optima is similar in size to the Stinger lift back, which has just landed here. Kia aura – Stinger hits mark as new hybrid SUV appears
The Stinger range starts with the EX Turbo ($54,990) and GT Line ($59,990), both using a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine putting out 193kW/353Nm.
The premium model is the GT Sport ($69,990) and its twin-turbocharged 3.3-litre V6, good for 272kW at 6000rpm and 510Nm between 1300-4500rpm.
The entry-level Optima EX is priced at $45,790; the Limited at $48,990 and the GT at $53,990. The EX and Limited use a 2.4-litre petrol four developing 138kW/241Nm.
The GT Optima has a turbocharged 2.0-litre four delivering 180kW/350Nm, similar output to the EX Turbo Stinger.