LotPro.com – New York Auto Show – Kia Koop and 2009 Optima

Kia debuts an updated Optima and a concept that we hope will be in showrooms soon…

2009 Kia Optima

Both the front and rear fascias of the Optima have been freshened. Narrower headlights and a more integrated grill give the car a sleeker, more modern, look. Outside mirrors now have integrated turn signals and the rear fascia has been completely restyled with narrower taillights and a sharper crease along the trailing edge of the deck lid.

Under the hood, the standard 2.4 liter 4-cyliner engine is rated at 175 hp, a 13 hp improvement over the ’08 model. The optional 2.7 liter V-6 engine delivers 190 hp, a 5 hp improvement.

Kia Koop Concept

Based on the Spectra platform, the Koop (no relation to the bearded former Surgeon General) features a 2.0 liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 290 hp and 289 lb.-ft. of torque (beginning at 2,000 rpm). The roof is comprised entirely of glass panels split down the center by a strip that, in the interior, becomes a light bar.

Putting the power to the road are 245/40ZR19 tires. In addition to a full compliment of airbags, the Koop features electronic stability control and continuous damping control.