The UK launch of the all-new Optima provides the jewel in the fl eet range crown with a stylish saloon that marks a new chapter in the Kia story
Fleet’s big story C
lean, stylish and uncomplicated. That’s the approach taken by Chief Design Offi cer Peter Schreyer when styling Kia’s new D-sector
challenger, the all-new Optima. It’s an ethos that pervades throughout the entire car, through an effi cient engine delivering cleaner emissions, a stylish and comfortable cabin and a straightforward, highly-equipped range that suits it perfectly in the business market. Even before the arrival of the Optima,
Kia’s business sales were showing impressive growth outstripping the sector’s gains, up by 62.8 per cent between 2010 and 2011, for a market share which improved from 1.56 per cent to 2.43 per cent.
The arrival of the Optima means that for the fi rst time Kia has a competitive car in all of the
The concept behind the creation of the Optima focuses on four key areas: stand-out styling, class-leading interior, fuel effi ciency and high levels of specifi cation. Longer, lower, wider and with an extended wheelbase compared to previous D-segment offerings from the fi rm, the new saloon
key sectors for the UK’s fl eet and leasing industry – Picanto, Rio, cee’d, Sportage and now Optima. Three of those cars are all-new models introduced in less than a year, which crucially means that businesses choosing Kia as one of their corporate partners are able to offer models at a wide range of employee levels and pay grades. For Kia, it’s a vital part of being a viable player in the UK fl eet market.
embodies a bold, athletic and visual sporting energy, according to its designers, proving that large saloons don’t have to look workmanlike, despite being hard-working cars. Schreyer explains: “With our new saloon, we have created a product that people previously would not have expected from Kia and that’s exactly what we set out to achieve. “Optima marks a new strand in Kia’s evolving design DNA. Its blend of simple and fl uid lines and elegant but uncomplicated shapes draw the attention of the eye in the same fashion as a perfectly-tailored fi ne Italian suit.” A high, pronounced shoulder line, coupé-
like roofl ine, sculpted fl anks and boldly fl ared wheel arches create a saloon with a graceful, muscular stance, while also delivering improvements in aerodynamic effi ciency.