Upgraded Kia Optima on sale

The upgraded Kia Optima, launched at last year's Frankfurt Motor Show, is now on sale in Ireland, writes Trish Whelan.

Created under the direction of Kia's Chief Design Officer Peter Schreyer, the upgraded Optima features new headlights, fog lamps, rear lights, bumpers, wheels and a new sharper looking boot lid.

Changes include the LED daytime running lights being moved from the bumper into the headlight - consistent with other Kia models - and the fog lamps now set into a body coloured panel rather than the transverse black panel of the original design.

In Ireland, the 2014 Optima features a sport pack which comes with a black-mesh front grille; chrome trim around the lower air-intake; unique 18-inch, five double-spoke alloy wheels; and a matt-black diffuser beneath the rear bumper.

Smooth contours allow for greater aerodynamic efficiency - minimising wind noise while boosting performance and fuel economy.

Just one high specification - Optima Platinum - model trim is available here at €30,950. The 1.7D, 134hp, engine is retained for 2014.