So while the image of the Kia Sportspace concept oozes European influence and presents itself in a body style much loved by Old Continent buyers, they don’t plan on making it as the Optima wagon.

This in spite of a very positive reception by the New York motor show last week. Orth Hendricks, Kia Motors America product planning VP told AutoGuide that they “looked at it. It’s a beautiful car and obviously it’s a big deal in Europe mainly because they love estates over there.”

He adds that they also “looked at the volume” and “at the number of people that would choose it and what it would cost.” In other words, currently they don’t think it would be a commercially viable solution, as such vehicles are seen as niche pretty much all around the world aside from Europe where they’re part of the norm.

What we do know is the Sportspace (pictured) previewed what turned out to be a very handsome new Optima; there’s an evolutionary approach at work  here.

Photo Gallery