Used Kia Optima cars

The Kia Optima first came to the UK in 2012 as a mid-size saloon. Rivalling vehicles from more established brands such as the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Mazda 6. It has since become a popular choice with motorists thanks to its distinctive design, comfortable interior and low running costs.

Kia Optima updates and facelifts

The Mk2 Optima launched in 2016, initially in saloon form with a 1.7-litre CRDi diesel engine. Later that year the Optima SW (estate) was released, giving buyers the opportunity to enjoy the same level of comfort and style but with added practicality. The model’s improvements on the earlier generation didn’t go unnoticed; it was named International Car of the Year by Road and Travel Magazine shortly after its unveiling.

Alongside the estate body style came a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the saloon. This combined a 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to supply up to 33 miles of all-electric motoring. In 2017 the Optima SW PHEV variant arrived, enabling estate owners to enjoy a greener drive.

The car had a simple range of trim levels – 2, 3, and 4 – with all models featuring dual-zone climate control, cruise control, and a touchscreen with navigation. Combined with its comfortable and spacious interior, the Kia Optima represented the ideal option for long motorway journeys and family adventures alike.

The Optima was discontinued after the 2020 model year due to a growing demand in the UK for SUVs. For those looking for a practical, stylish and comfortable saloon or estate, there are still plenty of used Kia Optima cars for sale on the market.

The Mk2 Optima had a series of updates throughout its lifespan. New engines were added in 2016 and 2017, offering greener choices for eco-conscious motorists. The range also received a facelift in 2018, which delivered a restyled front end, extra driver-assistance options and better connectivity. A 1.6-litre diesel engine also replaced the 1.7-litre unit.

Practicality and style of the car

Space is abundant in the Kia Optima. Taller adults can find ample leg and headroom in both the front and two outer rear seats. The middle seat is slightly raised and better suited for smaller occupants or children but is nonetheless practical for everyday needs. The wide-opening doors also provide easy access for getting children safely strapped in.

The Kia Optima saloon boasts a generous boot space of 505-litres and is well-shaped for accommodating larger objects like suitcases, a set of golf clubs and more. If you need extra luggage capacity, the rear seats split in a 60/40 configuration, allowing you to easily transport larger items.

Opt for the plug-in hybrid and the cargo volume on offer is reduced to 307 litres due to the battery placement. However, this is still plenty for your everyday needs, providing space for grocery shops, sports equipment and other items. For those in need of even more room, the Optima SW estate version provides a larger 552-litre boot, which expands to 1,686 litres with the rear seats folded flat.

The Kia Optima and Optima SW both make capable tow cars. Choose a Mk2 edition for a maximum braked capacity of 1,500–1800kg depending on the variant you select. It’s worth noting, the PHEV model is not suitable for towing.

Running costs

Insurance for the Optima varies depending on the edition and trim level. The entry-level trim falls into insurance group 19 out of 50 and the rest of the lineup sits in group 20. There’s a small step up in premiums for the Optima PHEV, which occupies group 25.

When it comes to road tax, the Optima falls into a range of charges. Vehicles can be taxed for as low as £0, going up to a maximum of £180 per year. Regardless of the option you select, the Optima is a reasonable choice in terms of annual road tax, aligning closely with other cars in its segment such as the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat.

How a used Kia Optima ddrives

At launch the Mk2 Kia Optima (2016-2020) was equipped with a single conventional engine option: a 1.7-litre CRDi diesel engine that produces 139bhp and 340Nm of torque. This delivers acceleration from 0-62mph in ten seconds, outpacing rivals like the Volkswagen Passat and Ford Mondeo. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission offers quick and seamless gear changes and the combined fuel economy reaches 67.3mpg.

Following an update in 2018, this engine was replaced by the 1.6-litre CRDi diesel. This produces 133bhp and 320Nm of torque, resulting in a 0-62mph time of 11.5 seconds. Both manual and automatic transmission options are available with fuel economy reaching 64.2mpg on the combined cycle.

If you’re seeking an eco-friendly option, the Optima PHEV offers 33 miles of zero-emissions motoring. It’s equipped with a 2.0-litre petrol engine and single electric motor and can take you from 0-62mph in just 9.4 seconds. Overall efficiency is impressive too, at 176.6mpg on the combined cycle.

Engines and official MPG

Please refer to the table below for a comprehensive list of engines and their official MPG figures.

2012 - 2016

Engine	Official NEDC MPG
1.7 CRDi	57.6 mpg
1.7 CRDi Automatic	47.1 mpg

2016 - 2019

Engine	Official NEDC MPG
1.6 CRDi	62.8 mpg
1.6 CRDi Automatic	64.2 mpg
1.7 CRDi	67.3 mpg
1.7 CRDi Automatic	64.2 mpg
2.0 GDi PHEV	176.6 mpg
2.0 T-GDi Automatic	34.4 mpg

Kia Optima Estate (2016 - 2019)

Engine	Official NEDC MPG
1.6 CRDi	61.4 mpg
1.6 CRDi DCT	61.4 mpg
1.7 CRDi	64.2 mpg
1.7 CRDi Automatic	61.4 mpg
2.0 GDi PHEV	188.3 mpg
2.0 T-GDi Automatic	30.7 mpg

Features you can expect in a Kia Optima

Interior

Storage solutions throughout the cabin include everything from a chilled glovebox and large bottle holders to a deep central cubby under the armrest. There’s space for snacks, drinks and valuables as required. Deep door pockets are also available for stowing away items and keeping the cabin and rear clutter-free.

All Mk2 Optima models (2016-2020) come equipped with a leather steering wheel and gearshift, and faux leather armrests. Depending on the trim you select, you can also find cloth or genuine leather seats. Additional features like an auto-dimming rearview mirror are also standard. Higher trim levels, such as the Optima 3 trim, offer electrically adjustable seats for added convenience.

Technology

The standard centre console is intuitive and easy to navigate and features a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen supported by six speakers. The Optima 3 and 4 trim levels feature an eight-inch screen and an impressive Harman Kardon audio system with ten speakers, delivering 590 Watts of output. All Mk2 models (2016–2020) come equipped with Kia's Connected Services, which include real-time traffic alerts, safety-camera warnings and weather updates. There’s also a TomTom sat nav system included.

The Optima PHEV adds to the technology suite with Android Auto integration, letting you manage communications and media streaming on the go. Additional technology features include wireless charging for compatible smartphones, automatic lights and wipers, as well as dual-zone air conditioning.

If you're looking for more advanced driver-assistance technologies, the Optima doesn't disappoint. The Optima 3, comes with lane departure warning and a speed limit display system, which is particularly useful when navigating unfamiliar roads. If you opt for the '4' variant, a suite of advanced safety systems becomes available. This includes an autonomous emergency braking system, automatic high beam and blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert. This variant also offers a 360-degree around-view camera and automated parking in parallel and perpendicular spaces.

Safety

The Kia Optima places a strong emphasis on safety, a fact underscored by its full five-star crash test rating from Euro NCAP in late 2015. With scores of 89% for adult occupants and 86% for child occupants, the Optima offers a reassuring level of protection. Parents will find that securing child seats is simple thanks to ISOFIX mounts in the rear.

Standard safety features across all MK2 Optima models include six airbags, stability control, and ABS with brake force distribution. Additionally, all cars come equipped with tyre pressure monitoring and hill start assist, which prevents any backwards rolling when you’re pulling away on an incline. For added peace of mind, each Optima features front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera as standard.

Trims available on the Kia Optima

Kia Optima 2

The Optima 2 comes well-equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels and automatic lights and wipers for your convenience. Inside, you'll find power lumbar support and dual-zone climate control to keep you comfortable on the road. For entertainment and connectivity, there’s a 7-inch touchscreen with navigation, DAB radio, Bluetooth, and both front and rear USB ports. Cruise control and a speed limiter are also standard.

Kia Optima 3

The 3 trim gains 18-inch alloy wheels and part faux-leather upholstery for a touch of luxury. The driver's seat becomes power-adjustable, and both front seats are heated, as is the steering wheel. The audio system is upgraded, and the touchscreen expands to eight inches. Additionally, lane keep assist is introduced, enhancing your safety on the road.

Kia Optima 4

The top-of-the-line 4 trim takes luxury and technology to the next level. It comes with DCT automatic transmission and introduces a range of advanced safety features, including blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Autonomous emergency braking and automated parking further elevate the driving experience. Inside, you'll find leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a wireless mobile phone charging pad and a 360-degree parking camera. A smart keyless system rounds out the extensive list of features.

Search our stock of used Kia Optima cars for sale.