2019 Kia Optima SW Sportswagon Review – German – Video

While the visual modifications are light, the 2019 Optima Sportswagon adds two new engines to its current lineup. These are designed to expand the Optima’s range and appeal, on top of the current plug-in hybrid powertrain and the sporty GT variant.

The 2019 Kia Optima’s biggest updates happen under its hood. Two new engines join alongside two 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines and a plug-in hybrid powertrain for a more well-rounded powertrain lineup.

The first new engine is the “U3” 1.6-liter CRDi, or common-rail direct injection, diesel engine. This non-turbo diesel is designed to be cleaner and more efficient than the outgoing 1.7-liter CRDi. It does this with a Selective Catalytic Reduction system that reduces tailpipe emissions of C02, particulate matter, and NOx. The engine makes a humble 134 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque.

 

 

The second new mill is also a 1.6-liter, though this one runs on gasoline and uses a turbo to generate boost for an output of 178 horsepower. It’s called the 1.6 T-GDi, which stands for turbocharged gasoline direct injection. The turbo-four slots between the naturally aspirated 161-horsepower 2.0-liter CVVL four-cylinder and the 242-horsepower 2.0-liter T-GDi found in the Optima GT. Regardless of the powertrain, Kia’s seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox is the standard transmission. It includes paddle shifters for manual control, too.

Adding to the driving fun is a new Drive Mode Selector, which gives drivers a say in how the Optima Sportswagon performs. The modes include Eco, Comfort, Sport, and “Smart Mode,” which is basically an automatic mode that allows the computer to determine the driver’s current driving style. The 2019 Optima Sportswagon comes only in front-wheel drive.

Fuel economy figures have not been announced, but count on improvements from the two new engines.