Kia Optima Sportswagon Is Likely An European Affair Only

We'll start with the good news. Kia has revealed the Optima Sportswagon before its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month. The design was inspired by the Sportspace Concept at last year’s Geneva Motor Show with the production model sharing a similar profile. Inside is very much like the current Optima sedan with a clean dashboard layout and seating for five. Cargo space measures out to 19.5 cubic feet which is 3.6 cubic feet more than the Optima sedan.

Three engines will be on offer for the European market,

• 2.0L four-cylinder producing 161 horsepower
• 1.7 CRDi four-cylinder producing 139 horsepower, 251 pound-feet of torque
• Turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder producing 240 horsepower, 260 pound-feet of torque

The turbo-four will only be available on the top GT trim. Transmissions will include a six-speed manual, six-speed automatic, and a seven-speed dual-clutch.

"The Optima has come to define Kia globally, and is credited with kick-starting the brand’s design-led transformation. The SPORTSPACE concept from 2015 was a clear intention of where we wanted to take the Optima next, and the Sportswagon adds an extra level of style and practicality to the well-received sedan,” said Michael Cole, COO for Kia Motors Europe.

The bad news is that the Optima Sportswagon is likely not to be sold in North America. The reason comes down to buyers here buying up crossovers at an increased rate. Maybe Kia will surprise us and announce the Optima Sportswagon will be coming to North America, but we're not holding our breath.