A Convertible Kia Optima For SEMA
Still following the theme of 'Vehicles That Will Never Be Built' (which was started this year by the Kia Forte Koup Mud Bogger), Kia is displaying a very special Optima at this year's SEMA Show. Instead of being a nice little sedan, the car sheds its roof and becomes a sexy convertible with four doors.
Since sawing the top off the Optima seriously diminished its structural integrity, the manufacturer had to strengthen it using some steel tubing discreetly inserted here and there in the chassis. This Optima sits lower than normal thanks to a Ksport suspension, and it also receives suicide-type rear doors (meaning they are hinged from the back instead of from the front). A set of 20-inch chrome wheels and a baby-blue paint job complete the new look. The interior has been updated with beige leather, and in the back the rear bench has been replaced by a pair of bucket seats and a large centre console.
Under the hood is nothing fancy; the engine is Kia's turbocharged 2-litre powerplant, outputting 245 horsepower. Its soundtrack has been enhanced by a high performance exhaust.
After entertaining guests at the SEMA Show, the car will probably be scrapped; as far as we know, there is absolutely no chance Kia has plans to build another convertible Optima.