Kia wants with the new Magentis to implement its motto and show that really has the power to surprise.

Kia Magentis, Optima or as known in America, and how was launched at the saloon  in New York,  leaves aside the past and try to fit on a new Kia direction, announcing a very interesting proposal for  affordable mid segment limousines. Peter Hand Schreyer is seen working at that project, the German implementing faithful, the wild cat image which become characteristic for the Korean brand.

On dimensions this model is 190 inch long, 72 inch wide and a wheelbase of 33.6 inch. This measurements  places Magentis in Opel Insignia category, model with will compete most likely, the four-door coupe figure is easy to see, , from images.

Although the aesthetic distinction is clear not from Sonata cousin, platforms are  common and engines announced in New York for Optima (U.S. version) are the same. Gasoline  2.4-liter GDI of 200 HP is the basic version, and the  2.0 turbo GDI 275 HP newly released on Sonata, is found on the Optima. Then will  appear also the first serial hybrid Kia, derivative from Kia Magentis and  related to the Sonata hybrid.  Available transmissions  with this model are in number of two, one automatic and one manual that can be chosen only for  LX equipment level. This will be observed only in America on Optima, Magentis European version will give more credit to manual gearbox and will certainly bring diesel engines.

New Optima / Magentis comes with a much improved safety level, including six standard airbags, active head restraints, tensionated belts and system  monitoring for tire pressure. The active part of safety is represented by the ABS, electronic stability control (ESC ), traction control (TCS) and hill-start assist.  We also wait details and prices for the European version of these sedan that promises to be very attractive.

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Kia is all set to debut the latest version of its Magentis midsize sedan at the New York Auto Show in April. Also known as the Optima in the United States, this next-generation sedan is set to kill with looks and pack some fine specs too.

Parent company Hyundai must have lent them some sketches, because from where we’re standing this car looks a lot like the the new Sonata. Still, the Magentis / Optima is bound to get it’s own feel thanks to Optima thanks to the brainwork of designer Peter Schreyer.

Kia also tells us that its next midsize machine will be longer, lower and wider than the current car with a significantly longer wheelbase. All this for the result, which is not unpopular in consumer queries: more space for us more space for our luggage! The 2011 Kia Optima will go on sale here in the U.S. this autumn while the European Magentis will hit the market in the spring of 2011.

More details and hopefully a high-res actual photos gallery will be posted as the New  York auto event comes closer. But take a look at the teaser photos till then. We also included a short press release that announces the upcoming debut.

[ PHOTO GALLERY: KIA MAGENTIS / OPTIMA TEASERS ]:

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