Not too long ago we brought you news from Korean manufacturer Kia in the form of what we Aussies call an Optima but known to other markets as the K5. Even though all we had to go on were renders, it was slated to be a looker of thing and now that Kia has pulled the sheets off, we can finally show you what it looks like.
The Korean-spec K5 definitely looks the part with its aggressive front fascia and sweeping lines. The new ‘tiger nose evolution’ design blends the headlights into the wide three-dimensional mesh grille that Kia says is inspired by the texture of shark skin.
The LED daytime running lights too have their own unique styling with the brand referring to its design as a ‘heartbeat’. At the back the K5 has a new taillight arrangement that spans its width and continues the ‘heartbeat’ signature at the back too. The 2019 Kia Cadenza was the first model to premiere this pulse design.
The body meanwhile, has an almost Audi A5 Sportback-esque profile to it with its slopping roofline. Following that is a chrome strip that runs from the A-pillar to around the base of the rear windscreen. The liftback roofline extends into what appears to be a subtle ducktail-like boot lid. The all-new K5 will be receiving frameless windows, which the brand says “adds greater drama”. We agree.
Finally, the dimensions of the all-new K5 has grown with 50mm added to the length and 25mm to the width. The wheelbase is also extended slightly for better stability and has its height dropped by 20mm to create what Kia says is a “low-slung sporty profile.”
Sadly, as the headline says, there is no plans at the current time to bring the Kia K5 with Optima badges Down Under as the model seen here is made for the left-hand drive market. Only time will tell.
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