Redesigned 2016 Kia Optima Makes its Debut

The redesigned 2016 Kia Optima, made quite a splash at its global debut at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) this week. An instant hit with consumers looking for a fresh alternative to an otherwise staid segment, the Optima has been KMA’s top-selling vehicle for three consecutive years, and the all-new model is poised to continue that success.

Conceived under the watchful eye of Kia’s president and chief design officer, Peter Schreyer, with modern and instantly recognizable design cues, the Optima is crafted with European styling, a refined premium interior and significant ride and handling improvements.

“The Optima changed the way people felt about the Kia brand, and KMA owes much of its growth and success to its head-turning design and sporty performance. It was – and still is to this day – a fresh alternative in the midsize sedan segment, and it amplified a five-year design-led transformation that propelled Kia to record-setting sales year-on-year,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, sales and marketing, KMA. “The all-new Optima retains the signature personality of its predecessor, but we’ve literally improved everything, providing more space, better ride and handling, more technology and greater refinement.”

What’s New?
• Longer chassis for improved ride and handling
• More spacious, luxurious cabin
• Three engine choices including a new 1.6-liter turbocharged four cylinder mated to a seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission.
• Bi-functional HID headlights with Dynamic Bending Lamps and High Beam Assist
• LED halo-style tail lights
• Increased cargo capacity
• Three new exterior colors
• Height-adjustable front passenger seat
• Four additional UVO eServices: Geo-fencing, Speed Alert, Curfew Alert and Driving Score
• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Optional Infinity Premium Audio System with 14 speakers, Clari-Fi technology and an upgraded 630-watt digital amplifier.
• Reduced NVH

Twitter lit up with reactions from NYIAS. Bloomberg Business said, “Kia’s new Optima is even sportier than its predecessor. “The redesigned 2016 Kia Optima gets more mature styling,” tweeted Cars.com and AutoGuide led with, “2016 Optima is a Bright Star in Kia’s Future.”
The 2016 Optima is expected to hit showrooms in the 4th quarter of this year.