2017 Kia Optima GT review

Why we're driving it

Before its much-hyped, rear-drive Stinger arrives later this year, Kia has given its Optima mid-sized sedan a little touch-up for 2017.

It'll take a trainspotter to notice the changes, but on the range-topping GT version we're testing there's new full LED headlights, different seat pattern stitching and the addition of a digital sound generator for the exhaust system.

What we like

The fundamentals of the Optima haven't been altered, which ensures it continues its position as an under-rated family car that offers plenty of space within its well-equipped cabin, particularly in the rear where there is generous leg and head room – enough for adults to travel without compromise. The huge boot is also up to the task of handling all the family duties, from weekend sporting and shopping outings to holiday getaways.

It also feels well-built and has plenty of gadgets, including wireless phone charging, heated and ventilated front seats and a touch screen with sat nav, Apple Carplay and a decent Harmon/Kardon audio system.

It also has a comprehensive suite of electronic safety systems, including automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise, lane departure and collision warnings, and is covered by Kia's benchmark seven-year warranty.

What's more, the GT drives really well. The turbo charged engine brings a degree of refinement and effortlessness to its character, something that's missing from the regular Optima with its hard-working naturally-aspirated motor. Plus, it's nicely calibrated to the six-speed automatic, the locally-tuned suspension set-up is compliant over bumps and it's quiet at country speeds.

What we don't like

It's not quite the sports sedan that Kia portrays it as. The turbo motor is stronger in the low-to-middle revs than it is at the top of the tacho - which also makes the steering wheel tug in your hands under heavy acceleration - the automatic is a little lazy in its shifts and the suspension is tuned more for comfort than corner carving.

The digital sound generator, which is designed to play on its sporting intent with a gruff exhaust note, is a bit off character. My first impression when it was started was that a plug-lead had fallen off and the engine was mis-firing, and then under acceleration it sounds like an old-school Subaru WRX. Granted, some may like it, but I didn't think it suited the car and, if you're in the same camp, then you've got no choice as you can't turn it off.

Apart from that, while there's decent small item storage in the centre console, the door bins are quite small for a car this size, and the touchscreen is difficult to reach to change any settings on the fly. I also found that the Bluetooth audio connection in our particular test car had the hiccups, meaning that phone calls were annoyingly difficult to maintain and streaming music was equally as frustrating to listen to.

Would I buy one

Even though the traditional family sedan is under serious pressure from SUV alternatives, there is still a lot of choice among mid-sized sedans and the Optima GT is up there with best of them, offering plenty of space, all the mod cons and comfortable on-road manners with benchmark ownership incentives.

Kia Optima GT Price and Specifications

Price: From $44,990 (plus on-road costs)

Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol

Power: 180kW at 6000rpm

Torque: 350Nm at 1400-4000rpm

Transmission: Six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive

Fuel use: 8.5L/100km

• For more information visit our Kia showroom