First Photos of 2016 Kia Optima GT Surface

A couple of photos depicting what seems to be the 2016 Kia Optima GT have hit the Internet.

The rear end of the vehicle seems to be identical to the 2016MY Kia Optima US-spec shown earlier this year at the New York Auto Show, with the obvious exception of the new GT badge.

Chances are this is the European model of the North American Kia Optima SX and will be offered exclusively with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine which in US-spec version delivers 247 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.

An official reveal of the European Kia Optima will likely occur next month at the Frankfurt Motor Show where this range-topping Kia Optima GT version is expected to make an appearance.

Since Europeans are big fans of diesels due to fuel economy, Kia will probably offer its trusty 1.7- and 2.0-liter units along with a lesser turbocharged gasoline unit, likely the 1.6-liter T-GDI which in the new Kia Sportage will deliver 174 horsepower.

Following its IAA debut, the Euro-spec Kia Optima should go on sale before the end of this 2015 or early 2016.