The wraps have come off the 2019 Kia Optima which brings new styling inside and out, the latest safety tech and a new UVO infotainment system.
For the 2019 model year, the new Optima will be available in four trim levels: LX, S, EX and SX in some markets. The Optima is struggling in Australia, it’s all about the Stinger down here, so we are unlikely to get the complete range.
Standard on the LX in terms of upgrades are Stinger-inspired LED DRLs, new 16-inch alloy wheels and a matte grey-finish grille.
Moving to the S model brings new projection beam fog lamps, LED taillights, dual exhaust, sport side sills with a gloss black trim, gloss-black grille and 18-inch alloy wheels. Also standard will be keyless entry and start, smart trunk and auto up/down power front windows.
Features on the EX model include new leather seating, front seat heaters, 17-inch alloy wheels and smart cruise control with stop-and-go as standard. The EX grade also gets the standard fog lamps, LED taillights and dual exhaust similar to the S grade. Options include ambient multi-colour interior lighting and a heated steering wheel.
The SX and SX Limited (SXL) package gain redesigned 18-inch wheels as standard with Michelin 235/45R-18 tyres available. Also added to this grade are new LED fog lights, ambient interior lighting and sport steering wheel.
Specific to the SX model is the availability of European-styled red and black two-tone leather-trimmed sport seats, a panoramic sunroof, a Harmon Kardon premium audio system with UVO link and Navigation, a heated steering wheel, gloss black door pillars and side mouldings as well as a sport bumper with LED fog lamps.
Available on the SXL model is a new two-tone bronze and black interior with Nappa leather seats.
Safety technology in the form of Kia’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) brings forward collision-avoidance, driver attention warning, lane keep assist and lane departure warning.
The 2019 Kia Optima is the first Kia to launch with afformentioned UVO infotainment system, with UVO play standard on the LX grade. It features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as voice recognition.
UVO link is standard on the S and EX models which brings an extended suite of connected-car security and convenience such as on-demand diagnostics, maintenance alerts, vehicle alarm notification, geo fencing, speed alerts, remote start with HVAC control, remote locking/unlocking as well as remote activation of the horn and lights.
In terms of engines, the EX grade gets a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder 133kW engine mated with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. Other engines include a 2.4-litre four-cylinder and a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with a six- or seven-speed automatic transmission.
The 2019 Kia Optima will launch later in the year with Australian specs and pricing to be confirmed closer to the local launch date.
More: All News
More: 2018 Kia Picanto Review
