Details of the 2018 Kia Optima range have been announced, the underappreciated sedan will feature a refreshed look, rejigged equipment levels and lower prices.
The Optima’s exterior gets a new grille, front fascia, upper and lower rear panels and restyled alloy wheels.
Inside, the Optima will now make use of Kia’s latest infotainment unit (7.0-inch for the Si and 8.0-inch for the GT) with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Kia’s Australian engineering team have spent some time tweaking the Optima’s ride and handling characteristics. The brand claims refinement and steering feel have been improved.
The entry-level Optima Si now starts at $33,390 (all prices before on-roads), a reduction of $1100. The Si is no longer equipped with satellite navigation and the HID headlamps have been replaced by dual projection units.
Engines are carried over, the Si will continue to be powered by a 2.4-litre 138kW/241Nm four-cylinder petrol engine matched to a six-speed automatic that sends drive to the front wheels.
The Optima GT now costs $43,290 after a $1200 price drop. The GT retains satellite navigation with 10-year MapCare updates.
It’s not all good news for GT buyers, the front passenger seat is now manually adjusted, the front seats are no longer ventilated but still heated, while the panoramic sunroof, high beam assist and tyre pressure monitoring have all been deleted. The deal doesn't seem that sharp, all things considered.
The GT keeps the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine developing 180kW and 350Nm meaning the short service intervals will remain. It will also come standard with a six-speed automatic that sends power to the front.
Both models now get additional safety kit in the form of lane keep assist and driver attention alert.
2018 Kia Optima pricing (excludes on-road costs):
Optima Si - $33,290 (-$1100)
Optima GT - $43,290 (-$1200)
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