The Kia Optima 2021 makes its European debut early, in Korea

We had already previewed the first sketches showing the definitive look of the Kia Optima. This model was going to be presented in Korea and would be unveiled under the name Kia K5. The differences between the Kia K5 and the Kia Optima that will arrive in Europe will be few, and looking at the model presented in Korea, we can already anticipate what the new generation of the Optima will be like.

We can now confirm that the sixth-generation Kia Optima will present a more attractive and elegant image than its predecessor. The Tiger Nose grille is slightly different, something that, together with the slimmer design of the headlights with integrated DRLs and the bonnet, which is more muscular and has a more robust look.

The dynamic, aggressive line runs along the entire side and reaches the rear, which also features a different light signature. A thin LED light strip runs along the rear and joins both light groups, giving a personalised look to the whole car. It is not the only novelty at the rear of the Kia Optima, as the tailgate, rear bumper and exhausts are also new, so the overall result is innovative and a clear break from the previous style.

The roofline is more sloped towards the rear, which also gives the car a different overall image. Korean buyers will be able to choose from a selection of wheels ranging from 16 to 19 inches, a configuration that will lend it a more dynamic appearance.

The dimensions of the Kia Optima, still called the Kia K5, have grown in length, with an overall length of 4,905 mm, 50 mm more than the current model. The width increases by 25 mm to 1,860 mm, while the height drops by 20 mm to 1,445 mm. The wheelbase has also been increased from 2,805 mm to 2,850 mm, which gains more interior space.

Information about the cabin Kia is still being withheld. There is not much data about the equipment and layout of the interior, but we know it will feature all the innovation the brand has developed since the previous generation. The final version of the model for Europe is not far away, but for now we can take a closer look at the Kia K5, the model for South Korea.