Kia Optima unveiled online in European specification ahead of Frankfurt debut
Kia has officially revealed the European version of its fourth-generation Optima, confirming new engines, increased interior space and enhanced technology before its IAA Frankfurt Motor Show appearance.
Kia has pulled the covers off the European specification of its fourth-generation Optima, releasing full details and images online ahead of the car’s public debut at the 2015 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show. The new Optima will reach European showrooms before the end of the year, bringing a longer, wider and taller body, updated engines and an expanded technology package.
Dimensions and design for Europe
The European Optima measures 4,855mm in length, 1,860mm in width and 1,465mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,805mm. This growth over the outgoing model translates to increased headroom, shoulder room and rear legroom, as well as greater boot capacity, key factors for buyers in the D-segment saloon market. The familiar ‘tiger-nose’ grille, swept-back headlights and LED tail-lamps are carried over from the North American version, but the European car gets its own chassis and suspension tuning.
Wheel sizes will range from 16 to 18 inches, and the exterior design retains the sharp front fender vents and clean lines that have become a hallmark of the Optima since its 2010 relaunch.
Engines and transmissions
Kia’s European engine line-up for the Optima includes an updated 1.7-litre CRDi diesel producing 141PS and 340Nm, and a 2.0-litre CVVL petrol unit with 163PS and 196Nm. Transmission options comprise a six-speed manual, a six-speed automatic and, for the first time in the Optima, a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic for selected models. Kia has confirmed that a plug-in hybrid and a high-performance Optima GT will join the range later, with the GT set for its own debut at Frankfurt.
- 1.7-litre CRDi diesel: 141PS, 340Nm
- 2.0-litre CVVL petrol: 163PS, 196Nm
- Six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes
- Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (selected models)
Interior and technology upgrades
Inside, the Optima features a redesigned dashboard with metallic accents, soft-touch plastics and gloss black trim. The centre console is simplified, and buyers can choose between 7- or 8-inch infotainment displays. Options include wireless smartphone charging, a premium 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and two-tone colour schemes for cloth or leather upholstery. Kia says the additional space and improved refinement will help the Optima compete with European mainstays in the segment.
Market positioning and future variants
The Optima’s European launch follows its North American debut earlier in 2015. Kia is targeting both fleet and private buyers, emphasising the model’s technology, space and efficiency upgrades. The brand has confirmed that a plug-in hybrid Optima and a high-performance GT variant will be added, with the GT set to offer 245hp and a sportier chassis, as covered inour Frankfurt Optima GT story.
