This is the Kia Optima. And yes it may look like a Kia Optima but hell no this is not an ordinary Kia Optima. It’s the Optima Sportswagon PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The 2019 year spec model has been given a mid-cycle refresh. Common practice in the motoring industry to keep potential buyers interested. Typically the only areas that are afforded a refresh pertain to the exterior. Often this is limited to the front and rear lights and front and rear bumper. The 2019 Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV gets a new front bumper design and the introduction of LED Daytime running lights. And a new diamond cut alloy wheel design. UK buyers can now choose the PHEV Plus, it’s a model derivative with more interior features. And yes it costs more. So you get a panoramic sunroof, power tailgate, Smart high Beam Assist, wireless charging, and leather upholstery. You also get an 8-inch infotainment system, SAT Nav, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and a premium Harmon/Kardon sound system. No changes to the powertrain. The 152bhp, 2.0-litre petrol engine is combined with a 66bhp electric motor to yield a total power output of 202bhp and 375Nm of torque. Kia claims the Optima Sportswagon PHEV can travel up to 33 miles in pure EV mode. Realistically expect around 12 miles. Kia also claims that the Optima Sportswagon has a total range of 696 miles. In the lab, yes, but in the real world most definitely not. Kia has even borrowed a design note from BMW, the Optima Sportswagon features an active front grille to assist with the aerodynamics. The boot sees a 15-percent reduction in capacity, 440-litres with the rear seats up, 1,574 folded flat. Prices for the 2019 Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV start from £34k. The PHEV Plus spec costs £38k.  

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