Kia surprised typically jaded journalists with a pair of well-kept secrets in New York. Seen for the first time were the 2009 Optima, and the Koup concept.

2009 Kia Optima

2009 Kia Optima
2009 Kia Optima

2009 Kia Optima

2009 Kia Optima

Frankly admitting that the current Optima was styled--or not--with too conservative a brush, Kia focused its energies on creating a cleaner, edgier visage for its midsize sedan.

CG Says...
Kia's capable Optima was in need of a makeover, though the 2009 refit falls a little short of exciting. That doesn't change the fact that this value-packed midsize sedan is a solid choice in a crowded class, and a 2008 Consumer Guide Automotive Recommended pick.

Compared to the 2008 Optima, the '09 sports a more rakish front-end treatment with smoother grille integration and narrower headlamp assemblies that wrap more deeply around the sides of the car. Subtle rear-end tweaking completes the exterior freshening.

With the new look comes additional power. The standard 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine now boasts 175 horsepower, a jump of 13 for '09. Unchanged is the available 185-horsepower 2.7-liter V6.

Inside, the 2009 Optima sports a couple of firsts. A navigation system is now available, as is digital-media-player connectivity.

Joining LX and EX models for '09 is a sporty, top-line SX trim level. Unique SX features include blacked-out grille and headlamp surrounds, fog lights, and 17-inch aluminum wheels.

The 2009 Kia Optima is scheduled to go on sale this fall.

Kia Koup Concept

Kia Koup Concept
Kia Koup Concept

Kia Koup Concept
Kia Koup Concept

Demonstrating that Kia is about more than value and functionality, it rolled out the Koup Concept, a compact design study that is claimed to represent a new styling direction for the Korean carmaker.

CG Says...
Revealing a flashy concept next to a more sober production vehicle is a little like a frumpy presidential candidate choosing a young, good-looking running mate. Even if there's little substance behind the sidekick, the media coverage is more exciting.

The Koup has a solid, uncluttered look, with a low, wide stance evocative of Volkswagen's cleanly rendered Eos convertible.

Power for the front-drive concept comes from Kia's Theta II turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. The 4-cylinder mill produces a claimed 290 horsepower.

Kia has no production plans for the Koup.