2016 Kia Optima officially unveiled at New York show

Alexi Falson

Kia has unveiled the new 2016 Optima at the New York Auto Show, wearing an all-new design inside and out, showcasing two turbocharged powertrain options.

2016 Kia Optima

The latest iteration of the Optima features a new front end, with large air intakes, a new grille featuring the ‘tiger nose’ theme, and a new headlight design that adds up to a fairly refreshed look.

Future Optima buyers will have the choice of three powertrains (in some markets), a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 137kW/241Nm, a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder with 132kW/264Nm, and a range-topping turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 184kW/352Nm of torque.

The 1.6-litre turbo is mated to a seven-speed dual clutch gearbox, while the others come with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Optima’s chassis is stiffer than the outgoing generation, but is also lighter, so expect it to be a leap-forward in terms of handling and economy.

The interior of the 2016 Optima has been overhauled too, with a cleaner approach in design. There is the usual mix of options available, ventilated front seats, a leather upholstery, Infinity audio system, as well as some safety equipment like Kia’s Around View Monitor, Smart Cruise control and Autonomous emergency braking system.

2016 Kia Optima-rear

Kia Australia is yet to confirm pricing of the 2016 Optima, but will go on sale later this year. Australian buyers will be presented with the 2.4-litre engine and the 2.0-litre turbo.

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