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Just a day after Kia dropped the first official image online, the next-generation D-segment competitor has already been photographed out and about on a South Korean highway completely undisguised. Thanks to Jfclub.kr via TheKoreanCarBlog, we are now afforded a near-360-degree view of the 2016 Kia Optima.

Do note that the shots pictured here are that of the Korean-spec model and not the one destined for the United States market. With only shots of the front end of both cars available, we can conclude that the Korean-spec and American-spec cars will differ only in terms of front bumper layout.

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While the American version sports twin air intakes at each side of the front bumper, the Korean model counters with the inclusion of a tri-circular LED daytime running lights layout. The rear end of the Korean variant features a tail lamp design that's more evolutionary rather than revolutionary, it has to be said.

When it debuts at the 2015 New York International Auto Show (2015 NYIAS), the new 2016 Kia Optima will likely be offered with a new hybrid powertrain, first previewed on the Optima T-Hybrid and the Sportspace concept. The latter also strongly hints at the possible inclusion of an estate body style for the first time.

GALLERY: 2016 Kia Optima spyshots