New Models
New Models

2018 Kia Optima Sportswagon revealed

Facelifted wagon to debut in Geneva with new engines and more tech


The revised 2018 Kia Optima has been revealed for Europe, with the company showing off the facelifted Sportswagon variant and detailing new powertrains for the first time.

While the exterior revisions largely mirror that of the Korean-market 'K5' sedan, the European version is set to get a pair of new turbocharged engines – one petrol and one diesel.

First is the new 1.6-litre 'T-GDi' four-cylinder turbo petrol, similar to the one used in the Hyundai Tucson. Power is rated at 132kW, and drive is sent to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Second is an all-new 'U3' 1.6-litre CRDi four-cylinder turbo-diesel, which replaces the previous model's 1.7-litre oiler. Kia claims the new 100kW/320Nm engine is far cleaner than its predecessor thanks to Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology, which reduced CO2, NOx and particulate emissions.

Other changes for the updated model include driver attention warning and lane-keep assist, along with a new high-resolution 360-degree camera system.

In terms of visual upgrades, the Optima sedan and Sportswagon are offered with adaptive LED headlights, LED fog-lights, new alloy wheel designs, a new twin exhaust finisher for GT Line variants, and revised LED tail-lights.

The interior has seen an upgrade too, with a new steering wheel and satin-chrome trim inerts, new brown cloth and leather upholstery options, configurable LED ambient lighting – available in six colours.


Australia

Speaking with CarAdvice, Kevin Hepworth, general manager for media and corporate communications at Kia's local division, said the "goodies" revealed for Europe won't be making it here – likely referring to the new engines and some of the new driver-assist tech.

"Sadly, none of the goodies revealed in Geneva will be making their way into the Australian cars in the short term, you will have to wait until the new model (a little while away) for any substantial upgrades." he said.

"The main thing the Australian product enhancement model will get is a revisit of the ride and handling package."

Kia Australia has confirmed the updated Optima for the second quarter of 2018, with further details to be revealed closer to launch.

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