Kia has unveiled the first estate version of its upper medium Optima model, with the previous generation model only coming to the UK as a saloon.

Inspired by last year’s Sportspace concept car, and known as the Sportswagon, the new model will go on sale in the fourth quarter of this year.

Three engines will be offered – a 141hp 1.7-litre diesel unit, a 163hp 2.0-litre petrol powertrain and a more powerful 245hp 2.0-litre motor – with all engine variants being offered with manual or automatic transmission options.

Inside, Kia offers a seven-inch (eight if sat-nav is optioned) touchscreen media system, which includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Kia’s range of on-demand services, such as speed camera alerts and weather forecasts.

The Optima Sportswagon is also available with a wireless charging point, activated when devices are placed on the charging pad. The car also warns owners that they’ve left a device on the charger when they exit the vehicle.

Safety equipment as standard includes Kia’s Vehicle Stability Management programme, which aims to ensure traction while under braking by controlling the car’s ESP system.

The Optima Sportswagon is also available with a range of optional active hazard-avoidance technologies, including:

–       Advanced Smart Control, which automatically adjusts the Optima’s speed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front.

–       Autonomous Emergency Braking, which employs radar detection to spot a possible collision with another vehicle or pedestrian and help bring the car to a halt.

–       Lane Keeping Assist System

–       High Beam Assist, which automatically adjusts headlamp range according to other vehicles and road conditions

–       Speed Limit Information Function

–       Blind Spot Detection, with a visual warning in the door mirror when another car enters the driver’s blind spot

–       Rear Traffic Alert, which warns against other cars driving behind when reversing.

“The Optima has come to define Kia globally, and is credited with kick-starting the brand’s design-led transformation,” Michael Cole, chief operating officer, Kia Motors Europe said.”The Sportspace concept from 2015 was a clear intention of where we wanted to take the Optima next, and the Sportswagon adds an extra level of style and practicality to the well-received saloon.”