Fourth gen Optima

Kia took its new-generation Optima mid-sizer slightly more upmarket in 2015 and finally offered it with a turbocharged engine.

The Optima design stayed faithful to its predecessor, a model that helped redefine the brand in the eyes of consumers, but major improvements were made to ride, handling and overall quality for the new sedan.

The base Si – the mid-spec variant was dropped – used a revised version of the outgoing model’s 2.4-litre GDi four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 138kW/241Nm and with fuel use of 8.3L/100km.

In flagship GT guise, the Optima used a 2.0-litre four-cylinder T-GDI turbocharged petrol unit – the same one found under the bonnet of the Hyundai Sonata – delivering 180kW/350Nm and fuel use of 8.5L/100km.

The Si and GT had slightly different exterior styling flourishes, with the base version using static cornering lamps and HID headlights, while the GT got bi-Xenon active headlights. The GT also had a more aggressive grille, a rear diffuser and LED tail-lights.