2018 Kia Optima

It’s barely been two years since Kia rolled out the current Optima. But the Korean automaker is already giving it a bit of an update. The refreshed Optima benefits from a new front bumper (and rear bumper on the sedan version), along with a chrome-trimmed tiger-nose grille, and new head, tail, and fog lamps.

The cabin is also spruced up with a new steering wheel, satin-chrome trim, and upholstery options. There’s a new drive-mode selector, with ambient lighting either switching with the mode selected or manually selectable.

GT Line and GT models feature new LED fog lamps as well, along with gloss-black exterior accents, fresh interior trim, and dual exhaust tips.

A new shade of red is introduced with the updated model, and there are new wheel choices across the board. The manufacturer has taken the opportunity to updated the advanced driver assistance features, too. But the bigger change may be under the hood, where Kia is offering new engine options.

A 1.6-liter diesel replaces the current 1.7-liter unit, and there’s a 1.6-liter turbo with 177 horsepower, slotting in between the base 2.0-liter engine and the top-of-the-line, 242-horse GT performance model.

Both sedan and wagon versions will continue to be offered. They’re set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next week before reaching dealers across Europe later this year. Expect similar revisions to make their way into the American model as well, but we’ll have to wait for official confirmation on that bit.