Spied: 2011 Kia Optima/K5 (TF)

Hot on the heels of the forthcoming domestic launch of Kia's K7/Cadenza, we bring you the latest spy shots of Kia's upcoming replacement for the mid-size Optima sedan, to be called K5 in the Korean market. The current-generation Optima, badged as Lotze in Korea, made its debut in November 2005 and was significantly revised for 2009 with major styling updates.

Scheduled to make its Korean debut in April 2010, the upcoming Optima/K5 (code-named "TF") will be a complete redesign. As indicated by spy shots, Schreyer's latest work will also be substantially larger compared to the current model.

Stylistically, the K5 is a stunning departure from the mundane style of the generation it will replace. The front end will feature Kia's sleek corporate fascia(for reference, see the new Sorento and Forte) incarnated by Peter Schreyer. As evident in a close-up shot, the K5 will also be available with LED headlights in the Korean market. The side profile is highlighted by a sweeping chrome window sill that extends to the trunk lid. The rear-end will ostensibly resemble the K7/Cadenza.

As of now, we have no confirmed details on what engines will be available for the new K5. The 2.4L Theta II 4-cylinder will certainly be one offering, as well as the 2.4L GDI (gasoline direct injection) 4-cylinder with an output of 201 horsepower. In addition, we expect an array of diesel and LPI engines to be offered in various markets. The North American model will likely be available with a 3.5L Lambda II V6 as well.

Stay tuned for more information and spy shots in future posts.

Continue reading to view more spy shots of the K5.

2011 Kia K7 (VG) Official Images Leaked: Spy Feed Update III

Kia Motors is set to launch an all-new premium executive car, code-named "VG", this November in South Korea. Previewed earlier this year at the Seoul International Motor Show with the KND-5 Concept, the Schreyer-designed sedan will slot between the Optima/Magentis and Amanti/Opirus when it hits the showrooms later this year. Kia Motors has recently confirmed that the Korean-market "VG" will be named "K7" and will be the first vehicle in the line-up to adopt the brand's new alphanumeric nomenclature system.

The K7 will be available with a wide variety of fuel-efficient four- and six-cylinder engines, including a 2.4L Theta II inline-4 and a 3.5L Lambda II V6. The 2.4L four-cylinder engine will feature Kia’s latest direct injection gasoline (GDI) technology and generate 201 horsepower. The more potent 3.5L V6, also found in the new Sorento, produces 279 horsepower and 247 lb.ft of torque. In the Korean market, the K7 will also be available in a smaller 2.2L inline-4 configuration. All engines will be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The forthcoming K7 sedan will be equipped with a plethora of innovations and features including LED headlamps and taillamps, available ventilated front seats, parking guide system, rear heated seats, panoramic sunroof, and lane-departure warning system.

The K7 will share the same front-wheel drive configuration as the next-generation Hyundai Azera/Grandeur (HG). Rumors also report that a Haldex all-wheel drive configuration will also be available.

The domestic-market K7 sedan will reach Korean showrooms late November of this year, while North American and European sales are scheduled to commence in mid-2010. Stay tuned for frequent spy shot and information updates in the weeks to come.

[Source: ceedclub.hu (Leaked Images)]

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