THE KIA Optima has been given a subtle mid-life refresh – and is all the better for it.

The Korean saloon, which has rivals such as the Ford Mondeo and Skoda Octavia to contend with, has been honed inside and out to provide a more refined and classier feel.

The new Optima is now longer and wider than its predecessor.

Despite this increase in size, its weight has been reduced by 8.6kg.

It also has a 50 per cent stiffer platform thanks to the use of advanced high-strength steel, while the steering and suspension has been overhauled.

The test car’s 1.7-litre, four-cylinder 16-valve CRDi turbodiesel engine now develops an improved 139bhp at 4,000rpm and increased torque of 340Nm starting at a lower 1,750rpm as a result of an extensive package of revisions.

This amounts to increases of 5bhp and 15Nm over the previous version.

The engine also now fully complies with EU6 emissions regulations.

When it comes to better efficiency and performance, this provides a double boost, with a 25 per cent economy improvement to 67.3mpg and a quicker 0-60mph time of 9.7sec.

The vehicle comes with either a six-speed manual or the new seven-speed twin-clutch semi-automatic, tested here.

Behind the wheel, the diesel’s power boost is certainly noticeable when you need to call for extra acceleration, while the car moves up to speed in a slick manner through the gear ratios.

The engine noise isn’t too easy on the ear under heavy acceleration, but at least the forward motion makes up for the racket.

The Optima also handles and grips well, giving the driver confidence in the corners, although the steering seems to lack a bit of feel. In that sense,perhaps it isn’t the most engaging car to drive.

In terms of looks, the Optima has a distinctive front grille and a shoulder line extending all the way from the front light units, creating a clean crease that gives the car its uniform appearance.

The door panels nicely sculpted and the car’s pleasing appearance is reinforced at the rear, thanks to a spoiler-shaped boot lid and an elaborate rear bumper.

New, better-equipped specs are 2, 3 and 4, with the latter tested here.

Family and business buyers will enjoy the classier cabin.

It boasts a redesigned dash, 8.0-inch touchscreen and overall good equipment levels.

The fascia is divided into an upper display zone and a lower control zone, while the number of buttons and switches in the control zone has been reduced because more functions are now accessed via the standard touch-screen, simplifying use and giving the cabin a less cluttered look.

During a day trip with my family, we found that this sizeable saloon offered oceans of space for five people.

It is clear that the larger size of the vehicle when compared to its predecessor has created more head, leg and shoulder room all round

The driving-position adjustability is also excellent meaning drivers over 6ft tall will be able to find a comfortable driving position.

In terms of technology, the new Optima is the first car in class to offer a wireless phone charger for mobile devices, located in the base of the centre console. Occupants are therefore able to recharge mobile phones or MP3 players without the inconvenience of wires and connectors.

A touch-screen with sat-nav and a reversing camera comes with all models, while Kia Connected Services with TomTom gives speed camera, weather and traffic information.Front and rear USB ports come as standard, while there is also a 360-degree Around View Monitor available.

Kia continues to have confidence in its cars durability. Indeed, the Optima comes with Kia’s industry-leading seven-year or 100,000-mile warranty, subject to conditions covering wear and tear items. What’s more, Kia says the warranty is fully transferable to subsequent owners as long as the age or mileage limits have not been exceeded.

All together, it’s a good all-round package, competitively priced. Families and business buyers alike will find the optima worthy of consideration when making their next purchase.