Exclusive: Kia Optima Diesel Hybrid Concept Car To Debut In Paris

We are almost at the point where Kia is set to unveil the new third generation Sorento SUV and Rio facelift in the European market, but we have something even more exciting to reveal!

We have been able to get our hands on a “leaked” photograph of a new Kia concept vehicle that will be eco-friendly and which is absolutely stunning to look at.

In order to get an idea of how exciting this new concept vehicle truly is, you have to look beyond the stylish exterior to see exactly what it will be riding on.

This is where the real drama begins.

The vehicle in question is the Kia Optima Mild Hybrid concept, a vehicle that will be used to show off the powertrain technology that Kia has in the pipeline.

You are probably wondering what it is that makes it so special, and we can tell you that it’s the addition of a diesel engine into the hybrid mix.

Yes, you heard that right, we are not just looking a gas and electric combination anymore.

This will be the first glimpse of the innovative diesel electric powertrain, with the Optima Mild Hybrid concept car powered by a 1.7-litre CRDi turbo-diesel engine, paired with a small electric motor, powered by a 48V lead-carbon battery.

There are no official specs as of yet, but expect more power and torque courtesy of enhancements made to the engine.

The electric motor will kick in when the Optima Mild Hybrid is crusing or operating at low speeds, which means better performance and a lower cost of running.

Expect to see some style changes made to the exterior of this model, too.

We will keep you posted as we learn more.