Kia Optima Sportswagon Takes Cues From Sportspace Concept
Bound for the Geneva auto show.
It probably won't see the light of day in the U.S., but the Kia Optima Sportswagon goes on sale by the end of this year in Europe. But first, it will make its official debut at the Geneva auto show in March.
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The design was inspired by the Kia Sportspace Concept, which was unveiled at last year's Geneva show. The new wagon's low-slung body and subtle rear wing are clearly borrowed from the Sportspace. But there are quite a few differences as well, most notably the Sportswagon's conventional grille, chunkier taillights, and protruding rear end. And obviously, no twin trapezoidal exhaust tips.
Kia hasn't released specs for the Sportswagon, but we do know both gas and diesel powertrains will be offered. A performance-oriented GT version will also be available. Key features on the car include a new infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats, and an optional electronic suspension.
The automaker calls the Optima Sportswagon "an important conquest product for Kia" considering two thirds of all D-segment sales in Europe are made of wagons. The Optima Sportswagon, Kia's first ever D-segment wagon, will make its debut March 1 at the Geneva auto show.
Source: Kia
When I tell people I write about cars, the most common reply I receive is “Really?” I guess I never strike people as a car type as I drive down the freeway in the right lane going 60 mph in my old SUV. My gripes about driving in city traffic and fast drivers don’t help my case, either. For a time, the only cars I liked were old cars. Not old as in "classic" or "vintage," but as in well-worn. My first appreciation of cars came when I drove a very old Ford pickup. It wasn't perfect: I used a booster seat to reach the gas pedal, and the turn signal once fell off in my hand as I was learning to drive. But the thing I valued most was the memories. It took several years for me to truly become a "car person." Being a long-time writer and an avid reader has helped me develop a healthy curiosity and a desire to know how things work. This has made cars one of the most fascinating points of study for me because they are such intricate machines. I am interested in how cars can reach 200 mph, how they can run on hydrogen, and how they can drive and park on their own. I also enjoy learning how cars can solve problems whether it be in the form of reducing pollution, minimizing traffic, or helping people stay connected on the road. Yes, maybe I’m not a gearhead. Perhaps I’m a car nerd. Either way, I very much enjoy writing about cars and helping people stay in tune with the automotive industry. I wouldn't want to be writing about anything else. And don’t get me wrong: I know how to drool over a hot car. I am fascinated by the Tesla Model S, awed by the Lamborghini Veneno, and am hopelessly obsessed with the Audi R8.
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