The Kia Optima is officially here, finally giving the Korean carmaker a contender in the lucrative midsize sedan segment of the Philippine automotive market.

With its distinctive styling and upscale interior, the Optima definitely stands out among the midsize sedans already available in the market. Buyers, however, won't have to break the bank to get the Optima and its class-leading features, as Kia's local distributor (Columbian Autocar Corporation) has pegged its price at P1.48 million.

With its angular design and bold 'Tiger nose' grille that's sandwiched between two projector headlamps, the Optima exudes an athletic confidence from every angle and shut line. Complementing its raked roofline, the high and pronounced shoulder line of its sculpted flanks and its extended wheelbase, are its boldly flared wheel arches and shallow glasshouse that "create a sedan with a muscular and self-assured stance." In addition, the Optima's coupe-like profile is enhanced by the sweeping chrome arc that flows from the A-pillar to the C-pillar, a design motif that supposedly visually lowers the car further and enhances its cab-backward proportions.

Inside, the Optima reportedly offers class-leading levels of safety and luxury equipment. Its intelligently configured and driver-oriented cabin "underlines this newfound poise and presence." Some of its standard features--like its six-way adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support, steering wheel-mounted controls, glove box cooling, leather seats, panoramic double sunroof, full-auto climate control, and rear parking assist--further expand the cabin’s luxurious qualities.

Powering the Kia Optima is a 2.4-liter Theta II gasoline engine that puts out 178hp and 231Nm of torque.

According to our source from CAC, initial supply of the Optima is already sold-out so buyers would have to wait for the next shipment to arrive in a couple of months' time.

Photo by Marlon 'Taz' Dacumos