All-new 2010 KIA Optima: With groundbreaking spirit

Arriving in showrooms in North America and non-European markets in the final quarter of this year and Europe next Spring, the next generation Optima continues Kia’s design-led transformation, while revealing a completely new and stunning design language for Kia, highlighted by a dynamic and streamlined profile that conveys elegance and athletic confidence from every angle. […]

Arriving in showrooms in North America and non-European markets in the final quarter of this year and Europe next Spring, the next generation Optima continues Kia’s design-led transformation, while revealing a completely new and stunning design language for Kia, highlighted by a dynamic and streamlined profile that conveys elegance and athletic confidence from every angle.  

Optima’s groundbreaking spirit continues under the hood and inside the cabin with the introduction of five new powertrains, which deliver class-leading power (in North America) with highly competitive fuel economy – and the brand’s first-ever hybrid for North America (available in early 2011).

Designed at Kia’s studios in Frankfurt and Irvine, California, the all-new Optima is longer, wider and lower than the vehicle it replaces and is based on an all-new midsize platform that allowed for distinctive dimensions and proportions while also providing a unique canvas for Kia’s global design team to pen a vehicle that stands apart from everything else in its segment.

“The all-new Optima is a new strand in Kia’s growing design DNA with a blend of simple and fluid lines and elegant but uncomplicated shapes that draw the attention of the eye in much the same fashion as a perfectly-tailored fine Italian suit,” said Peter Schreyer, chief design officer, Kia Motors Corporation. Its smooth-flowing lines speak of grace and style and offer a strong hint of European luxury.

Optima’s coupe-like profile is enhanced by a sweeping chrome arc that flows from the A through C pillars, a distinctive design motif that visually lowers the car further and enhances its proportions.  Optima’s roofline connects with its high and pronounced shoulder line that leads to its sculpted flanks and extended wheelbase.

The all-new Optima also employs engine management systems like direct injection, multi-point injection and turbocharging to help bring performance to the brand without sacrificing fuel efficiency. The new Optima will be available with three all-new and fuel-efficient Theta II powerplants, a 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter GDI turbo engine or a 2.4-liter hybrid.  The 2.4-liter GDI engine produces 203 PS[6] and upgrading to the available 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine delivers V6-type power from a four-cylinder engine that produces 278 PS, while mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.  All transmissions on the new Optima, both manual and automatic, have six speeds while all automatics feature Sportmatic T clutchless shifting.  

The new Optima has a high level of safety features, as does the rest of the Kia line-up. This includes six airbags (dual advanced front and front-seat mounted side as well as full-length side curtain), front active headrests, side-impact door beams, height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH).

The pictures on the press viewing were quite impressive due to the modern approach for a wide audience of motorist today.