Kia Optima 2019 launched, competing with Toyota Camry

Kia has just introduced a new version of the K5 model in the Korean market. The K5 is also known as Optima in other markets, including Vietnam. In this upgrade, the Korean car company changed the design and added some new technologies. Kia Optima belongs to the D-class sedan segment, sharing the same field with Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, Honda Accord and Nissan Teana.

The front grille still retains Kia's signature "tiger nose" style, however, the company has renewed the vertical bars. The front bumper is sportier with 2 large fake air vents. Depending on the customer's options, the car can be equipped with LED or projector lights.

There are four wheel options, ranging in size from 16 to 18 inches. The taillights feature new lighting graphics. Meanwhile, the rear diffuser has been revised, adding to the overall sporty look of the car.

There are a total of three engine options, all of which are four-cylinder. The first is a 2.0L CVVL engine that produces 163 horsepower and 196 Nm of torque. The second is a 2.0L LPI engine that produces 153 horsepower and 196 Nm of torque when mated to a manual transmission, and 151 horsepower and 194 Nm of torque when mated to an automatic transmission.

Finally, there is the 1.7L diesel engine with 141 horsepower and 340 Nm of torque. Transmission options include 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (diesel and turbo only).

The cabin retains the appearance of the old version, but has upgraded touch technology of the central screen for more sensitive response. The driver's seat is covered in leather, and has LED interior lighting.

The new steering wheel is sportier, the round part in the center of the steering wheel is smaller than the old version. The car is equipped with paddle shifters, Start/Stop button, Krell sound system, seat cooling/heating, 2-zone air conditioning with integrated Closer Ionizer filter technology, and rear sunshades.

The 2019 Kia Optima comes standard with an electronic parking brake, a 360-degree camera, and Highway Assist, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The Korean automaker has not yet announced official sales and pricing information.