Kia Unveils Optima Sportswagon Tourer Ahead of Geneva

Kia jumps the gun on the Geneva auto show, pulling the covers off its new Optima Sportswagon Tourer at a news conference in the Kia design center in Frankfurt.

The first tourer to be offered by Kia in Europe, the new model is considered a “conquest product” by Kia Motors Europe Chief Operating Office Michael Cole.

Cole says wagon body styles account for two-thirds of all sales in the D-segment in Europe and three-quarters of all fleet sales.

The Optima Sportswagon will be a shot in the arm for Kia’s Hwasung plant in Korea, which will produce the vehicle for export to Europe.

Plans are to sell the car only in Europe, beginning in the fourth quarter as a ʼ17 model. Pricing details may be released at the Geneva show, a spokesman tells WardsAuto.

While giving the new model some 20 cu.-ft. (0.6 cu.-m) of trunk space, body dimensions are identical to the sedan, with a very slight 0.2-in. (50-mm) increase in roof height.

Powertrain choices include a 160-hp 2.0L naturally aspirated gasoline 4-cyl., a 140-hp 1.7L 4-cyl. turbodiesel and a 2.0L turbo DI gasoline engine.

Depending on engine selection, 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic or 7-speed dual-clutch transmissions are available.

A selection of 16-, 17- and 18-in. alloy wheels will be offered. All models have ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear discs, except for the turbo-GDI version, which has ventilated discs fore and aft.

The Sportswagon uses advanced high-strength steel for 51% of its body, including in its pillars and rear bulkhead.

The interior features a high percentage of soft-touch materials, with natural tone cloth and leather trims. Increased soundproofing subdues road noise. The rear seat has a 40-20-40 split configuration to enhance cargo-carrying flexibility.

The Optima Sportswagon is equipped with Kia’s audiovisual ANV navigation system, with 7- or 8-in. (17.8- or 20.3-cm) touchscreen. It also is available with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A 590-watt Harman Kardon 8-speaker sound system is optional.

Smart cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, high-beam assist, blindspot detection and rear cross-traffic alert will be offered as well.

Kia isn’t providing any sales targets ahead of the car’s public bow in Geneva.