Car and Driver Confirms 2021 Kia Optima Addition of Two Turbo Engines, AWD

There have been rumors lately that the alluring new Kia Optima, which is still named the K5 in the Korean market, will soon just bear one name. Although that cannot yet be 100 percent confirmed, what can be is that the redesigned mid-size sedan will now offer two different turbocharged engines right here in the States, and very likely now brandish all-wheel drive. The entry-level Optima is powered by a new turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four that is also present in the Hyundai Sonata.

This engine cranks out 178 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, and also uses Kia's new continuously variable valve duration (CVVD) technology. Putting this to use can result in 4 to 5 percent better efficiency, along with a 12 percent improvement in tailpipe emissions. A variable duration adjuster moves up and down, and actually shifts the contact point of the cam lobe. When the duration adjuster is moved determine the duration of time a valve is open. The predominant benefit is that a long valve duration takes place during low engine speeds, allowing more time for the air to sufficiently enter the cylinder.

As Car and Driver reports on the blog this week, the top of the group GT variant makes 286 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, with much of the credit going to the turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four. Speed tests have proven it to go from 0 to 60 in around 6.6 seconds, and there is talk of a hybrid powertrain in the works as well. There is also a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, a higher-output continuously variable valve lift version of the identical 2.0-liter. All of these engines come standard with either a 6 or 8-speed automatic transmission. The updated Optima features front-wheel drive as standard, and all-wheel drive is expected in the United States variant as well.

The seasoned staff on duty at Cnet's Roadshow claimed regarding the 2021 Optima that “if you're staring, you might want to keep staring because this one's deeply attractive”. Everyone here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis is so excited about the “Tiger Nose Evolution” we have seen with our brand line's sedan appearance: you know when one is coming up on you, and the looks are striking as well as modern!

Another very cool element of the 2021 model's design is the band of chrome outlining the side window line, which looks attractive combined with frameless doors and blacked-out roof treatment. We will keep you posted about developments and release dates regarding the Optima here on the blog and are completely geared up to show you after a test drive how fantastic and fundamentally useful a brand-new Kia can be for you this New Year!

Kia Optima Could Likely Adopt K5 Namesake in the U.S.

Design sketches that previewed the updated Optima's look were spotted all over the web during November and October, but the brand-new Optima won't be officially released until 2020. As all of us here on sales and service staff at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis were surfing the web to find the latest news about new releases, we came across this piece from Motor1.com that poses an interesting question: there may be a chance that it may not be called the Optima after all. Officials from Korea have claimed that the company is dropping the Optima nameplate, as reported in TheKoreanCarblog.

In the Optima's place, Kia may use the K5 nameplate worldwide for this savvy and sensational sedan. It was learned recently that the company filed was granted a trademark for the “K5” term in the United States 7 years ago, and refiled for the same trademark this fall. The U.S. Patent and Tradmark Office granted the company the wordmark in November. Just this past week, the company filed a trademark in Korea for a stylized new logo with red or black text similar to what is found on the Imagine by Kia concept.

What is a bit more solidly known about the upcoming Optima/K5 is that it does officially go on sale in the South Korean market this month, and we would expect early 2020 to be the time to  see it in the States. Engine options should be similar to what is found on the Sonata: Hyundai's product incorporates either the 2.5-liter engine that cranks out 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque or the more powerful turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, putting out 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.

As we say on our official website regarding this car: “So Much Yes”. It will be a car that fully allows the driver to experience perfect performance levels, and was engineered for prime efficiency from day one. Available heated and ventilated front seats add even more comfort, and the optional two-tone black and red leather interior for the SX adds a vibe of ultra-modern swank while still evoking practicality. The front styling will feature the signature tiger-nose grille, and available LED headlights that deliver a dazzling style as well as futuristic-feeling illumination option.

Don't forget to check out the available gloss-black rear spoiler, mirrors, and sport side sills with black accent trim, plus 18-inch gloss black alloy wheels that cloak the Optima in individuality. Advanced High Strength Steel greatly increases the rigidity of the body,  while hot – stamping of components in 16 key stress points works overtime to boost body structure for a ride with less noise.

2021 Kia Optima Official Renderings Featured on Motor1.com News

When spy shots begin their gradual circulation through the many avenues of the web, there are instances wherein they may not portray the exact car in question down to the very last detail, and that's ok! The reason why all of us on staff here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis are ok with that is because the sense of excitement that future photos generate questions that we are here on hand to answer regarding present and coming cars! Adriann Padeanu of Motor1.com had a few cautionary words regarding the renderings of the new 2021 Kia Optima this past week and claimed that they may be too good to be true.

Spy shots from August revealed the next generation is going to stick to the midsize sedan frame, so these renderings were most definitely not 100% accurate. Hyundai did a great job of upping their styling game in this segment shared with the lovely-looking Sonata, and so Kia will be working similar visual wonders with its sister model. We love the way the headlights appear to have LED daytime running lights, as well as the slim taillights stretching across the fastback-like rear end.

The 2021 Optima is expected to sport some traits that will make its profile more exciting, and many auto journalists and fans out there think that it could even make sense to see the Stinger lose its rear doors. We don't believe that this will be the case but do know that there will be some changes inside the cabin that will ultimately see the digital instrument cluster merge with a wider infotainment system. The lower center console will lose the now bulky gear lever for a much smaller rotary shifter, while some of the buttons will be taken away after their functions are included in the touchscreen display.

2021 Kia Optima Spotted by Motor1.com in Death Valley

Crossovers, SUVs, and trucks have been wildly dominating the marketplace for quite some time now, but as was shown over the past year, reviewers and consumers alike still have lots of love for aggressive sedans such as the Stinger. As spotted testing in Death Valley by the Motor1.com staff over the past week, the 2021 Kia Optima will borrow a few cues from the  track-ready and polished Stinger, emphasizing wider proportions and a sleek roofline. Much like the 2020 Hyundai Sonata, it will grow in width and wheelbase.

You can check out the spy shots here, and once you look inside, the Optima will feature abundant technology that was introduced on the 2020 Sonata, while also offering up more interior space for comfort. A completely redesigned dash and materials are expected as well, and higher-trim features would likely include NFC capability, wireless charging, parking assist, and blind-spot monitor view in the instrument panel. It's a bit early to know which engine options will be placed in the 2021 Optima, but it's expected to be new or revised 4-cylinder variants both with and without turbocharging. Hybrid and PHEV variants should also be on the arrival docket, perhaps launching a year after the gas-powered models' debut.

All of us here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis hope to see you this fall to check out current and next-year offerings as well: the refreshed 2019 Optima made its debut last year at the New York International Auto Show with a completely revamped multimedia system, additional standard safety features, and four trim models to select from. There are a new 16-inch alloy wheel design and matte-gray grille, and the SX model now has sportier trim like gloss-black door pillars and side moldings, as well as a sport bumper with LED fog lamps.

On base models, the UVO Play system is now standard, which features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Now offered as standard on SX models and sedans with the SXL package is the top-tier UVO Link with navigation system. It includes all the features found in the first two UVO tires, plus extra navigation functionality. We understand the importance of safety during every single drive and are proud of Kia's practical and high-tech features such as the driver attention warning system: it closely monitors the driver's behavior and will alert the driver with visual and audible cues if it senses the driver's level of attention has been reduced.  Lane departure warning with lane keep assist alerts the driver if the car shifts out of the lane, and will even jump in and automatically correct the steering to safely get you back on track!

2019 Kia Optima Debuts Restructured UVO+ Upgraded Tech at New York Auto Show

The midsize sedan segment is understandably one of the most competitive, as many brands fiercely turn out the best and most able models to keep an edge. The 2019 Optima continues on its successful run as a compelling alternative for this segment, and during this spring at the New York Auto show, it was obvious that the new design cues and expanded tech options were going to solidify the car's great appeal. A completely new UVO infotainment strategy as well as available European-inspired red and black two-tone sport leather-trimmed seats are available on the new model, as well as brand-new alloy wheel choices, ambient LED interior lighting, and a new Passion Red exterior color choice.

All of us on staff here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis recognize that stand-out design is one of the main components that set the Optima apart from other available choices. The 2019 Optima receives a number of redesigned interior and exterior elements, and comes standard with LED daytime running lights inspired by the Stinger, a new 16-inch alloy wheel design, and super awesome matte gray-finish grill. The affordable S model puts emphasis on sportiness and technology, and yields you new projection beam fog lamps, LED taillights, dual exhaust, sport side sills with gloss black trim, a gloss-black grill, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Standard push-button start, smart key, smart trunk, and power front windows with auto up-down functionality also add to the sense of convenience for this selection.

The EX trim level boasts the turbocharged 178-horsepower engine, with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission, and adaptive Smart Shift drive mode. The transmission and the lever communicate via electronic communication control, and shifting is enabled with simple manipulation, and shorter travel. Smart Cruise Control and Stop and Go are standard, and other available options include multi-color interior lighting, and a heated steering wheel.

The redesigned 18-inch wheels are standard on the SX and SX Limited package, and are available with Michelin 235/45R-18 tires. The SX features available European-styled red and black two-tone sport leather-trimmed seats, panoramic roof, Harman Kardon premium audio system with navigation, gloss black door pillars, and a uniquely authentic sport bumper with LED fog lamps. The available black interior adds an amazingly classy touch, and the optional Nappa leather seating surfaces provide upper-end comfort and the essence of the finest in craftsmanship that you can enjoy every time you embark on a new destination.

We have great reason to be proud of our many Advanced Driver Assistance Systems: they work in unison to lessen the severity of a collision, or take great measures to avoid it completely. Forward Collision Avoidance can automatically apply the brakes to reduce speed, which may minimize the damaging effects of a frontal collision. It's hard not to take notice of the high level of effectiveness in regards to Driver Attention Warning, which monitors the driver, and provides visual and audio cues if it senses the attention level will be reduced.

You're going to immediately find lots to love about the UVO's voice recognition: drivers can use their compatible Apple or Android smartphones for navigation, to make calls, send and receive messages, and listen to music all in a manner that allows the driver to stay focused on the trip. UVO offers features like on-demand diagnostics, maintenance alerts, vehicle alarm notifications, geofencing, and speed alerts. UVO link with navigation provides the added benefit of MY POIs and Map Care, which allows for two free useful map updates per year!

World-Class Ovation: 2017 Kia Optima Receives Top Safety Plus Rating From IIHS

As we get ready to gear up for what promises to be a hot and exciting summer here in the St. Louis metro area, we have been helping many customers pick out a sedan that fits their lifestyle. It's no secret that the name mentioned (and sold) the most is the Optima, and it has just received another prestigious safety nod as of late. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has given the Optima the “Top Safety Pick Plus (TSP+) rating, which is the highest destination possible within this entity.

The Optima scored incredibly high in five crashworthiness tests, and in the Integration of Autonomous Emergency Braking for crash prevention. The element to really take notice of here as a consumer is that good crashworthiness ratings, and a superior rating for the optional front-crash prevention system are all important to anyone looking for standout safety features in a current vehicle.

The IIHS is known for setting some of the highest standards when it comes to evaluating the many aspects of safety within a vehicle, and heralding this listing further proves the success of KIA's ongoing effort to do everything possible to improve the quality and integrity of their front-running auto line. When a model is qualifying for TSP+, it must earn “good” ratings in five different tests for crashworthiness: small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side impact, roof restraints, and head restraints. As we tread onward daily to what is certainly a modern climate in the auto manufacturing industry, drivers are now able to reap benefits from driver assistance systems that seemed far-fetched just a few decades ago.

Advanced Smart Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are just a few of the features that will help you during your day-to-day drive. Front Collision Warning System is a particularly useful feature: it scans the road ahead while you drive, and is designed to give you fair warning If you're about to crash into a vehicle that is stopped, or slow-moving. Many that are involved in the research and development for future auto projects nationwide are certain that driverless cars are making their way very soon on the horizon, but for now, these added safety features work overtime to give you added protection from the various elements that could cause you harm.

The Optima is available with three engine choices, including the new 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, that proudly operates in conjunction with a sweet seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission. Ask us right here at Jim Butler about the five trim levels available for the Optima: LX, LX 1.6T, EX, SX, and SXL are all on top to see to it that you get the specific look and feel that works for you. With the SXL option, you get standard 18-inch chrome alloy wheels, and super cool LED dual-projection headlights with Dynamic Bending Light and High-Beam Assist.

Owning a top-notch sedan is going to absolutely put some oomph back into your daily life: come down and see us at Missouri's esteemed Kia dealer, and we'll lay the groundwork for you to enjoy the features of the Optima every day for a durable commute.

Kia Announces Turbo 3-cylinder, 7-speed Double-clutch Kappa Engine

Future version of Kia models may be outfitted with 1-liter engine

Earlier this week, Kia announced its version of a three-cylinder engine dubbed the Kappa engine.

While the engine is set to go on sale later this year in Europe, Kia Motors America (KMA) has not yet announced a set date for the engines to be place in cars to be sold in the United States, Car and Driver believes it will be “sooner rather than later.” Models that could see the Kappa in the future, according to Car and Driver, are the Kia Rio, Forte and Soul.

Further details about the motor have been revealed including horsepower and torque. The Kappa engine kicks out 118 horsepower and 127 lb.-ft. of torque that features a single-scroll turbo; peak power hits at 6,000 rpm. The Kappa also utilizes a pair of thermostats, allowing the block and head to be cooled independently of each other.

New for Kias would be the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Diesel variants of some European Kias will have the new automatic transmission that can handle up to 221 lb.-ft. of torque. Car and Driver guesses that the Optima may be the first U.S. Kia model to take advantage of the DCT.

Stay tuned to Jim Butler Kia in Chesterfield Valley’s blog for more information and updates on this engine and other Kia model news.

Great models such as the Optima, Rio, Forte and more are available from Jim Butler Kia of Chesterfield Valley’s inventory. To learn more about our Kia models, call us today at 888-392-6606. As your St. Louis Kia dealer, we invite you to check out our new Kias in person at our Chesterfield dealership. If you’re in the St. Louis, Chesterfield Valley, Creve Coeur or Maryland Heights area, stop by our lot at 722 Long Road Crossing in Chesterfield. Here at Jim Butler Kia, you can make your Sorento, K900 and Soul purchases with confidence. We are located in Chesterfield, Mo., and serve as your St. Louis, Chesterfield Valley, Creve Coeur and Maryland Heights Kia dealer.

Take a look at our new Kia inventory online!