Kia have already begun testing the next-generation
Optima sedan, leaving prototypes heavily camouflaged in key areas such as the
front end, exterior door panels and rear fascia. Still, we can make one or two
things out about its silhouette. For starters, we’re actually dealing with a whole new design
language, albeit nothing revolutionary. For example, Kia will continue to use
its familiar grille design, but featuring a more three-dimensional look.
n boss, one Byung Chul Juh, the next Optima will
have a look that’s “not extreme, but progressive with a strong brand identity.”
He then went on to say that the design language will reflect the Korean
automaker’s “innovative, young, challenging, iconic and cool” character. He also claims that the car will
feature “unexpected details”, but it’s obvious that we shouldn’t expect
anything radical compared to the current iteration.
With this render by Kolesa, we can see a relatively
accurate reproduction of previously-seen spy images, with regards to the car’s
window line, since it’s the only styling feature that’s exposed. As far as
front and rear designs, that’s mostly a guessing game (aside from the
bumper-mounted license plate holder), but the render does stay within the parameters
of being “progressive”.
Speaking of progress, the car will reportedly gain
an electronically-controlled AWD system. According to Korean outlet ETNEWS, the
system will be able to actively distribute forces based on factors such as
acceleration, speed and so on. The next-gen Optima is also rumored to have an
Eco mode for improved fuel economy, as well as a Sport mode. Even though no official
statements have been made regarding a launch date, it’s possible that we’ll get
to see the 5th-gen Optima before the end of this year.
