The fourth generation of the Kia Optima will arrive in Europe in a few months
Victor Alós Yus @sepelaci
24 August 2015
2 min. 
The Kia Optima is about to debut its fourth generation, which will reach the European market in the fourth quarter of 2015, so we will not have long to wait before we can take a proper look at it. The main changes in this new version are aimed at offering more interior space, so that occupants are more comfortable and safer. The inclusion of new driver assistance systems also points in that direction, seeking above all to ensure safety on every journey. But that is not all.
A new bodywork, slightly larger and more robust, allows for an increase in exterior size and wheelbase. This is vital for making the interior roomier as well. All of this, of course, while maintaining the styling that has defined this model since the arrival of the third generation in 2011.
On the outside, longer headlights with a wraparound shape stand out, framing the front end’s tiger nose. The look is more aerodynamic than its predecessors and gives it a sportier image. At the rear, the LED taillights help carry this image through to the back. It will be offered in nine body colours and 16- to 18-inch alloy wheels, depending on the options chosen.
The interior also focuses on passenger comfort and driver functionality. The instruments are positioned so that all the necessary information for driving can be taken in at a glance. In addition, the centre console is oriented so that a slight turn of the head is enough to keep it under control. From the touchscreen most systems are operated, and those that are not on it have their controls below. That said, there are fewer controls than in its predecessors.
Passive safety is provided by an airbag for the driver, one for the front passenger, two airbags for the driver’s knees, two front side airbags and two curtain airbags. The active systems include driver assistance features that will prevent the small errors that occur while driving. Improvements in connectivity and mobile device charging are another strong point of this new generation of the Optima, as this is quite important to buyers today.
As for engines, Kia features the improved 1.7-litre CRDi powerplant. It now delivers 136 CV and 340 Nm. Alongside the 2.0-litre petrol engine available in the previous version, a plug-in hybrid will also be offered.
Source | Kia
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