Next generation Kia Optima previewed in new sketches

Kia has released sketches of the next generation Optima mid-size sedan ahead of its global debut at the New York Auto Show.

The illustrations depict a low-slung, coupe-like exterior body with pronounced wheel arches and an aggressive stance that are largely faithful to the Sportspace Concept shown at the recent Geneva Motor Show.

Penned under the watchful eyes of Kia design chief and president Peter Schreyer, the concept sports Kia’s trademark “tiger nose” grille, side air vents and striking LED lighting arrangements.

Set to be unveiled on 1 April, the new Kia Optima is expected to arrive in Australian showrooms later this year, bringing all-new Euro-inspired styling.

In a press release accompanying the images, the South Korean car maker described the new Optima as “a passionately designed and obsessively crafted all-new version of the popular mid-size sedan”.

The new Optima will descend into an increasingly competitive segment brimmed with rivals such as the Volkswagen Passat, Ford Mondeo, Skoda Superb, Mazda6, Nissan Altima and Subaru Liberty.

The contemporary new look will be accompanied by a slew of new powertrains, including a newly developed turbo petrol unit and a 1.7-litre diesel-electric hybrid alternative. Kia has confirmed the turbo petrol for Australia, but the fate of the hybrid is still pending the outcome of a viability survey.

Hinted by the Sportspace concept unveiled at Geneva, the new Optima is likely to spawn a wagon version for market relevancy.