An updated version of the Kia Optima is expected to
arrive later this year in global markets, including North America, almost three
years after the fourth generation was shown in New York.
Until it does, the mid-size sedan is being
previewed by a facelifted version of the K5 in its local market, South Korea, a
version that features a few styling tweaks that should end up on the Optima as
well.
Look at the front and you will see an upgraded tiger
nose grille, tweaked headlights with LED DRLs, and new bumper with incorporated
LED lights, whereas the rear end sports a diffuser and revised taillights. The
new alloy wheels round up the list of visual updates on the outside.
There are no drastic changes inside the cabin
either, but the latest infotainment system is visible, as are the revised
steering wheel, a ‘K5’ logo projected onto the tarmac, new upholstery options,
and the slightly revised trim.
Kia is offering the 2019 K5 with a choice of two
powertrains, including a 1.6-liter turbo and a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated
gasoline unit, rated at hp 180 PS and 265 Nm of torque, and 163 PS and 196 Nm of torque, respectively. There’s an LPG choice as well – the
2.0-liter mill with 151 PS and 194 Nm of torque, and a 1.7-liter
turbodiesel that makes 141 PS and 340 Nm of torque.
In North America, the 2019 Kia Optima will probably
keep the same engines as the outgoing models, meaning the 1.6-liter and
2.4-liter units, with their 178 Hp and 185 Hp, as well as the 245 Hp
2.0-liter lump.
