2016 Kia Optima at 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show

The all-new Optima is longer, taller and wider than its predecessor, with dimensions of 4855 mm, 1860 mm and 1465 mm in length, width and height, respectively. Its wheelbase has also been extended by 10 mm; now measuring 2805 mm.

It gets the characteristic ‘tiger-nose’ grille, wrap-around headlamps and triple unit fog lamps integrated into the front air dam. The sides get prominent wheel arches, chrome fender vent and a choice of 16-, 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels. The rear-end features LED halo-style tail lights, boot lid spoiler, and an oval exhaust integrated into the diffuser.

Kia says that the build quality of the new Optima’s interior has been vastly improved, featuring more soft-touch materials along with cloth and leather upholstery. Metallic accents have been added to lend further appeal to the cabin. The central console is tilted at an angle of 8.5 degrees for a driver-focused cabin. It houses the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment screen, and fewer buttons in the lower portion for HVAC and audio systems.

The 2016 Kia Optima will offer a retuned version of the current 1.7-liter CRDi diesel engine that has an increased output of 139 bhp and 340 Nm of torque. This engine can be mated to either a 7-speed dual clutch transmission or a 6-speed manual. Carbon emissions are claimed to have been reduced by 14 percent to 110g/km. There will also be a 2.0-liter CVVL engine that generates 160.7 bhp.

A range of optional active safety systems are also available, such as Advanced Smart Cruise Control (SCC), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), High Beam Assist (HBA), Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF), Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).