KIA's popular saloon model, the Optima, underwent a facelift last year and now has sharper styling, a more sophisticated cabin and advanced new safety features.

The sleekly-streamlined car that boasts coupe good looks is a firm favourite with business drivers who regularly clock up the motorway miles and first impressions are an indication why the Optima turns heads.

It looks fabulous from any approach thanks to 18-inch alloys, body-coloured door handles and mirrors, tinted glass, a panoramic sunroof and sweeping light clusters.

The interior is packed with premium quality features such as black leather upholstery, an eight-way powered driver's seat with memory setting, all round electric windows, heated front seats, a leather trimmed steering wheel and a wood grain centre console trim.

Techno treats are also plentiful with a six-speaker sound system which is compatible with all modern media devices, Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone air conditioning, automatic lights and wipers, reversing sensors with camera, sat nav with touchscreen interface and plenty more besides.

This car was powered by a 1.7-litre diesel engine and can sprint from 0-60 mph in 10.2 seconds and onto a top speed of 125mph. According to official figures the car can deliver combined fuel economy of 57.6mpg with carbon emissions of 128g/km.

Acceleration through the six-speed manual gearbox proved smooth and responsive with plenty of power on tap at all times which helped to make light work of any overtaking manoeuvres.

In and around town the Optima cruised along effortlessly and parking was made simpler thanks to the sensors and camera.

The driver benefits from excellent all-round visibility and this is another bonus because when the Optima is not being driven for work purposes it will often be spotted on the school run where you do need eyes in the back of your head.

Out on the faster open road the Optima was an absolute delight to drive. The road-holding was flawless and the excellent insulation meant the cabin remained beautifully quiet with very little road, engine or wind noise to speak of.

All the dials and instrumentation are clear to see and ideally positioned for driver usability. And comfort levels are also very high with ample room in the back for two adults to stretch out in style - three at a bit of a push.

There will be little restrictions when it comes to luggage too as the Optima can cater for a capacity of 505 litres and the 60:40 split-folding rear seats open up that limit even further.

Elsewhere there are numerous storage compartments scattered throughout the cabin, including a cooling glovebox, a centre console armrest with storage box, cup holders and deep door pockets.

The vehicle also features a comprehensive range of safety specifications including anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist system, electronic stability control and vehicle stability, hill start assist, emergency stop signalling, motor driven power steering and intelligent stop and go, plus numerous airbags to help protect all occupants.

All in all, the saloon market is a fiercely competitive one and whilst the Kia Optima may not be up to the standard of some of the German marques, it does stand out for many reasons.