Kia Optima facelift launched in Korea

The home market is the first to receive the facelifted version of the D-segment sedan before it goes on sale elsewhere in the world. In Korea, the Optima is called the K5.

The grille still has the signature tiger nose style, but the new feature is the vertical bars. The bumper is also new with sharper air intakes. Depending on the version, customers have LED headlights and fog lights or projector lamps.

There are four wheel size options, from 16 to 18 inches, and the largest comes in multi-spoke or two-tone sporty styles. New taillights. Refined oval exhaust tips.

The facelifted Optima retains the same overall dashboard layout but features a touchscreen infotainment system. There's a new steering wheel design, optional diamond-stitched leather seats, and LED accent lighting.

Other features include a Krell audio system, heated and cooled seats, dual-zone climate control and deodorizing system, rear sunshades and an electronic parking brake. The Optima also has a 360-degree camera and a highway driving assistance system (including adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist).

Engine options include 2.0 CVVL, 2.0 LPI and 1.6 T-GDI four-cylinder petrol engines. Customers can also get a 1.7 diesel engine with 139 horsepower and 340 Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual or automatic, or a 7-speed dual-clutch (diesel and turbo only).

In Vietnam, Optima has 3 versions including 2.0 AT, 2.0 ATH and 2.4 GT-Line with suggested retail prices of 789 million, 869 million and 949 million VND respectively. Competitors are Toyota Camry, Honda Accord or Hyundai Sonata.