2011 Kia Optima to Attend the Guangzhou Auto Show

South Korean manufacturer Kia Motors will use the upcoming Guangzhou Auto Show to introduce the new Optima on the Chinese market, voices familiar with the matter are suggesting. Kia hasn't released an official announcement on the matter, but Gasgoo Auto reports that the carmaker intends to present the vehicle at the show later this month and to begin sales of the model in the first months of the next year, probably in March.

The 2011 Optima will be manufactured by Kia's Chinese joint venture with Dongfeng Motor Corporation and Jiangsu Yueda Investment and will be offered, just like in Europe, with two engine options.

The first variant is equipped with a 1.7-litre 4-cylinder VGT diesel (codenamed ‘U2’) producing 136 PS and 330 Nm of torque, which, when fitted with Kia's ISG Start/Stop system is expected to emit 113 g/km of CO2.

The second option is a 2.0-litre CVVL (continuously variable valve lift) gasoline engine, codenamed ‘Nu’ by the South Korean manufacturer, capable of developing 170 PS and 196 Nm of torque.

Presented at the 2010 Paris Auto Show earlier this year, the car is offered in Europe as standard with air-conditioning, electric windows front and rear, CD/Stereo with 6 speakers, keyless-entry with alarm system, mirror LED turn signals, windshield de-icer and folding rear centre armrest with twin cup-holders.

Just like in China, the 2011 Kia Optima will go on sale across Europe in 2011, with pricing to be announced at a later date.