The Optima sedan has been spotted in India for the first time as it will play a crucial rule of building premium brand image for Kia
After months of speculation, Kia officially announced its India entry at the 2018 Auto Expo. The company has showcased its entire portfolio at the Expo. Kia will start its India innings with production model of SP Concept, which is going to compete against Hyundai Creta. The Korean manufacturer is taking a different approach for Indian market.
Initially, Kia will launch premium models in India before introducing budget products. The Optima sedan has been spotted in India for the first time as it will play a crucial rule for premium branding. Globally, Kia Optima competes against Hyundai Elantra, Skoda Octavia and Toyota Corolla.
Also Read : Kia Optima Sedan (Toyota Corolla Rival) – All You Need To Know
Kia will launch four products before 2022 and Optima will be one of the models. The company might be testing the model in India to understand our road conditions and tune the suspension accordingly. The Optima is one of the best looking sedans in its segment as it has both sporty and elegant characteristics.
The front get signature Kia grill and headlamps extend toward grill, while the bumper has a muscular design theme with horizontal air pockets. The side and rear three quarter design reminds of Elantra as the wrap around tail lamp is exactly similar on both models. Kia is expected to increase ground clearance on India model.
Also Read : Kia’s First Car In India Could Be A Maruti Vitara Brezza Rival
The interior design of Optima is inline with other new generation Kia models. The three spoke multi-function steering wheel with new instrument cluster which has a MID in middle which give lots of information for the driver. The Optima is loaded with long list of features like touch screen infotainment system, cruise control, sunroof and more.
Globally, Kia doesn’t offer diesel engine with optima but in India we can expect same 1.6 L engine on Elantra to be used as it produces 127 PS of power and 259 NM of torque. The 2.0 L turbocharged petrol engine puts out 163 PS and 259 Nm. Both these engines are mated to 6 speed manual and automatic transmission. We can expect Kia Optima to be launched in 2020.