Having won the battle for the best Korean business class car, Kia Optima continued to move forward rapidly. Thus, having debuted the fourth generation in 2015, Optima can safely compete with the world representatives of this segment, and it has a good chance to be called the best. Does the Volkswagen Passat agree with this? Now we will find out.
The first to appear on the arena is the "formidable" German representative of the business class Volkswagen Passat B8. I think, right after these words, many motorists who are always loyal to the Volkswagen concern will argue that Optima has absolutely no chance. But let's not rush things ahead of time and return to our "battle".
Finally, the new Volkswagen Passat begins to systematically replace its predecessors, the B7 models. Now the updated Passat has ceased to be boring and has become a truly “predatory” car.
Having retained the barely noticeable outlines from its predecessor, the car on the new platform looks nice on the outside. It has well-developed body lines, headlights, the ends of which are harmoniously connected to the stamping of the hood, as well as a proprietary grille and a modified front bumper, they really look quite dynamic.
In addition to the appearance of the car, its interior is also very catchy. As always, a German-style interior, with excellent quality finishing materials. The front panel is good not only in appearance, but also to the touch. The central display pleases with the saturation of the image and the clarity of work. Below it is a three-zone climate control panel. Everything works quickly, in a timely manner, and there was no backlash in the “twists”.
The driver's instrument panel in this generation has become electronic and multifunctional. Now there is no need to use switches in order to display the desired indicator, for example, such as street temperature, fuel consumption, etc. Now such information is placed in separate places on the panel and is displayed constantly, and the on-board computer itself can display an image from the navigation system, trip computer data, and much more.
The steering wheel, sheathed in soft leather, just asks for your hands, and the buttons and paddle shifters located on it pleasantly fit under your fingers. The seats are comfortable with high-quality upholstery and a wide range of adjustments will not let the body get tired on long trips. In the rear row of seats, there is more than enough legroom for passengers. It will be inconvenient only for those who sit in the middle, as it will be great to interfere with the massive and high central tunnel with climate controls in the rear of the car. And the side curtains of the two rear doors and three comfortable headrests create good comfort and a certain zest for the Volkswagen Passat.
We pass to our second participant - Kia Optima. The new, fourth generation of Optima still looks "menacing" and leaves a pleasant impression with its updated exterior.
The head optics, the front bumper and the recesses for the foglights have changed. Now the car looks even more harmonious, so that Kia's appearance is not so far behind its rival. And what about the salon?
Of course, the interior of Optima looks simpler than Passatovsky, but is in no way inferior in its logic and quality of finishing materials. It is immediately clear that Korean automakers orient the interior of the car to the driver, as evidenced by the central panel deployed to the driver's seat.
Yes, the central display is smaller, but it shows the same quality and pleases with speed. The central deflectors are symmetrical, unlike the Passat, it seems that the central right deflector stretches to the end of the torpedo. A convenient climate control system and a central tunnel, where the gearbox selector is located in the front of the car in an anatomical position under the right hand, and to the right it has a roomy niche for every small thing. And the Passat was limited in this place only to cup holders. The steering wheel is now trimmed in leather, and the steering buttons are really conveniently located than in previous versions. The instrument panel flaunts a standard backlight in white and red. As before, it is well readable and convenient, only now the developers seem to have brought a small “marafet”, making it even more pleasing to the eye.
The front seats are comfortable, of high quality and equipped with the necessary adjustments, allowing you to fully customize the driver's seat for yourself. The downside was the side support pillows, which are located too far apart, but there is a rather rare function - ventilation of the front seats, which Volkswagen cannot boast of. I was pleased with the rear row of seats: there are more than enough places, and the central tunnel does not get under your feet. Even if the front seats move as far back as possible, there will still be enough space behind.
Compared to the Passat, Kia's rear visibility is much worse, but thanks to the rear-view camera with the ability to adjust the viewing angle, this drawback is not at all depressing. It is also worth noting that the panoramic roof of Optima "ate" the space above his head, so a tall enough person will rest against the ceiling, which cannot be said about the consequences of speed bumps, especially at high speed.
Let's move on to the most painstaking topic - the engine and suspension. Volkswagen Passat B8 is equipped with a TSI engine with a displacement of 1.8 liters and 180 hp. and a seven-speed DSG gearbox, and a Kia Optima with a 2.4-liter engine, 188 hp. and a six-speed automatic.
Well, the dynamics of the Passat with its 180-horsepower engine is amazing. Maximum torque is reached at low revs and the car literally “tears” all road users from the start. Not without the merit of the “robot”, which clearly and on time shifts gears. And the consumption was a pleasant surprise - 9 liters in the city, and 5 on the highway! Noise isolation and handling at altitude. As the speed increases, the steering effort also increases, and in sharp turns there is good feedback and small rolls.
The suspension of the new platform has become more energy-intensive and allows you to confidently drive through any bumps without fear of “breaking through” it.
The Kia engine has moderate traction and, together with a six-speed automatic, is in no way suitable for active driving, and if you try to squeeze “all the juice out of it”, then the standard mixed consumption from 11 liters will grow into all 15. I was pleased that the Koreans know how to learn from mistakes. If in previous generations the sound insulation was simply disgusting, and the suspension was low energy-intensive, then everything in this car has reached a new level. While driving, the cabin is quiet, and the bumps in the road are “filtered” just fine. The only thing, of course, with fairly deep potholes, you have to slow down.
Summing up, of course, Volkswagen wins this “battle”, surpassing its eastern competitor in design and driving performance. But! By including the “pricing policy” item here, the Passat will turn out to be too expensive, and in this case the Optima will cost much less when buying and servicing. Not to say that Kia has gone far back. The Koreans did their best, and I think the next generation will still be able to give “heat” to their competitors.
A large solid sedan with a spacious interior and - isn't this the dream of an average Russian car enthusiast? Are there many worthy representatives of this segment on the market? It turns out - yes, enough, and as today's duelists we present to your attention the Kia Optima and the very popular Toyota Camry model.
However, on domestic roads, both models are found with almost the same frequency. Sales statistics say that the Japanese sedan has consistently been in the top 20 most popular cars in recent years, regardless of the segment. The Korean has never been in the top twenty, but in absolute terms it is inferior to Toyota quite a bit, 15-30%. And this means that, despite the promotion of Camry, Optima is not critically behind. Therefore, interest in both sedans is high, and their comparative testing will be very useful.
Technical features of the models
The following models will be considered as subjects of the review of technical characteristics: from the side of Kia Optima - a car of 2018, equipped with a 150-horsepower two-liter engine and automatic transmission, Toyota Camry will represent a car with exactly the same power unit and transmission, also released last year :
| Assembly country | RF | RF |
| Engine volume, l. | 1,99 | 1,99 |
| Power, l. With. | 150 | 150 |
| Max cr. moment at rpm, Nm | 196/4800 | 199/4600 |
| Transmission type | Six-speed automatic transmission | Six-speed automatic transmission |
| Fuel tank capacity, l | 70 | 70 |
| Length, cm. | 486 | 485 |
| Height, see | 149 | 148 |
| wheelbase, see | 280 | 278 |
| . | 15,5 | 16,0 |
| Weight in curb condition, t. | 1,55 | 1,54 |
| Trunk volume, l. | 510 | 505 |
| Max speed, km/h | 250 | 210 |
| Fuel consumption combined cycle | 7,7 | 7,2 |
| Tire size | 215/60R16 | 215/60R16 |
As you can see, for most positions the parameters are very close.
Appearance
You can’t call Optima a typical sedan - the car skillfully disguises itself as a sports-orientated liftback, although the Camry has a similar situation after the second restyling, especially if you stand from a certain angle. One way or another, but in terms of dimensions, both cars are almost the same, the difference of one centimeter is not physically noticeable (and even less than a centimeter - 30 mm in length, 10 mm in height and 25 mm in wheelbase). Compared to its predecessors, the Japanese bestseller has become more squat, which was facilitated by the transition to a new modular platform with the TNGA index. As a result, the E-Class sedan looks wider than it actually is, but the changed proportions are not wrong, just the car is perceived very differently.
The Kia Optima assembled in Kaliningrad still looks much more solid and richer than the Toyota Camry: there are one inch larger wheels, a panoramic roof in the base, more chrome parts, and less conspicuous body gaps. In favor of the St. Petersburg Camry, a few words can be said about the best quality of the paintwork - the shagreen is practically invisible here. Yes, and the visibility of the Japanese is a little better and the coverage of the space around the car with external mirrors is wider. But there is clearly a lack of high-quality parking radars: those angle sensors that are available do not always work adequately.
Salon and trunk
The first thing we see when opening the door of any car is the driver's seat. For Kia, this obligatory element in an experienced driver evokes some associations. It's no secret that just one and a half to two decades ago, Korean designers dominated the Japanese school of auto design, but recently they are increasingly reorienting themselves towards European style. Water and the driver's seat Optima subtly reminiscent of the salon Audi or VW. But here we are not talking about full or partial copying - the seats are close in spirit: the same verified geometric shapes, the same ergonomics calculated to the millimeter and the complete absence of catchy details.
The seating position is low, almost like a sports car, the support is at the level, the steering wheel also has a sporty look with a beveled bottom. Finally, the center console, like some Germans, is slightly turned towards the driver. In a word, a hint of the gambling nature of the sedan sticking out of all the cracks. However, talking about an ideal fit, for obvious reasons, cannot be perceived with absolute objectivity: for some, it will really be as comfortable as possible, others may note the apparent lack of free space above their heads, and others may not like the profile of the chair due to anatomical features.
In the updated Camry, there are few changes in the cabin. Here, as before, it is very convenient, and not only for the driver. The ergonomics are excellent, but the layout of the keys and buttons for the Russian user is not standard in everything, but you quickly get used to it ... As for the general perception, the interior design of the Japanese "froze" at the level of at least five years ago, and did not criticize the false wooden overlays, except perhaps completely incapable of such actions. However, conditional conservatism is not so bad, but experienced drivers like the Camry elephant for another reason: a driver with any anthropological data will feel like a fish in water while driving. Yes, and there is more than enough space in the rear in Toyota: in its class in terms of free space on the rear sofa, Camry is one of the leaders. In some ways, it can even be perceived as a compact limousine. But let's leave juggling terminologies aside - Kia is also quite a spacious car, and here you can also enjoy options that increase comfort: curtains on the windows, the presence of a USB port designed to recharge smartphones and other gadgets.
As for the front seats, the Camry has very soft ones - but this just limits the possibilities of high-speed driving, and the lateral support is not impressive. In addition, the skin looks moderately slippery, conducive to a calm driving style.
As for visibility, because of the sports orientation of the Optima, it is much worse here than that of the Japanese sedan. Sitting behind the wheel of a Toyota, you feel the dimensions of the car much more sharply, and from all sides. So the all-round view option here plays more of a safety role. This feature is also present in Optima, but it is implemented unsuccessfully, due to the disgusting image quality. If we compare the visibility of competitors, then the differences are most pronounced when a car enters an underground parking lot: on a Camry it usually succeeds the first time, on a Kia it often requires a second entry to the next floor.
Engines and transmissions
The line of power units of both sedans consists of three motors. Camry has two well-known and well-proven four-cylinder engines:
- a two-liter 150-horsepower 6AR-FSE engine developing 192 Nm cr. torque at 4700 rpm;
- 181-horsepower 2.5-liter engine with a factory index 2AR-FE, developing 231 Nm at a crankshaft speed of 4000 rpm.
But there is also a novelty - a six-cylinder 3.5-liter 2GR-FKS engine, equipped with an intake-mounted hydraulic phase shifter and a combined fuel injection system. It allows you to develop 250 horsepower and 356 Nm of torque at 4700 rpm. The younger ones are aggregated with proven six-speed automatics, the top engine is paired with an upgraded eight-speed automatic transmission option.
Kia has two main aspirators:
- a two-liter 150-horsepower Nu MPI engine equipped with a distributed injection system and developing 196 Nm at a crankshaft speed of 4800 rpm;
- The 2.4-liter Theta-II engine with direct injection has a power of 188 "horses" and max. torque of 241 Nm, achieved at 4000 rpm.
But the Korean also has a zest that is installed only on the GT-Line package - this is a two-liter four-cylinder that develops traction of 245 horsepower and produces 350 Nm in a wide frequency range (1500-4000 rpm).
As you can see, the comparison of cars in terms of engine characteristics demonstrates approximate equality.
Dynamics, fuel consumption
The younger Camry engine can hardly be called a worthy choice: for a car with such a mass, it is rather weak, so the result of 11.0 seconds required to accelerate to a hundred looks appropriate. In Optima with the same two-liter engine, the result with a manual transmission is 1.4 seconds better, with an automatic transmission, Kia accelerates to the “first automobile” in 10.7 seconds. The top units demonstrate decent performance, but here the Kia is slightly better - 7.4 seconds versus 7.7 seconds for the Camry with a 3.5-liter power unit.
As expected, the efficiency indicators for two-liter engines are better for Toyota: its junior engine consumes 9.7 liters per 100 km in the city, 5.5 liters on the highway, and 7.1 liters on average. The Optima has slightly higher figures: 10.4 / 6.1 / 7.7 liters, respectively.
The average consumption of top engines, surprisingly, is not much higher - for a turbocharged unit from Kia it is 8.5 liters, for a Camry with a 3.5-liter engine - 8.7 liters.
A comparative test of Kia Optima and Toyota Camry in terms of efficiency and acceleration dynamics recorded a slight advantage for the Japanese.
Manageability and safety
Although Toyota is associated with exemplary reliability, in this case you can very quickly become disillusioned with the quality of a sedan: after starting the engine and turning on the gear selector, you will immediately feel how the hood vibrates, and this vibration is transmitted to the interior, to the floor and steering wheel. In Optima, this phenomenon is also present, but much less pronounced. But it is worth taking a start - and Toyota becomes a very quiet car, for which unevenness is not a hindrance. But the smoothness of the suspension is so good that it can be annoying with constant swaying on barely perceptible waves of the road surface.
In high-speed corners, Toyota feels not very confident, but in a straight line the car moves confidently, obediently obeying the steering wheel turns. As for agility, little has changed compared to its predecessor - when you try to accelerate sharply, the machine works with delays, sometimes quite unexpectedly and unpredictably. Yes, and the implementation of the sports mode here looks like an open mockery.
Kia may seem like a real athlete against the background of a competitor. Although the power of the sedans is comparable, the Korean's gas pedal control is more accurate, engine braking is very good. There are three modes, from the very uncomfortable and thoughtful Eco to the instantly responsive Sport. The only problematic moment in the operation of the motor is missing here - a small jerk in the initial phase of acceleration, which manifests itself when the accelerator pedal is released. The Optima's brakes are tighter, and take some getting used to, especially after the Camry's gently responsive pedal.
The Japanese has a rather heavy steering wheel, compared to the very lightweight Kia wheel, which is especially pronounced at low speeds. But when maneuvering in city traffic, the Optima performs better, responding with predictable behavior and minimal rolls. At speed, there are no special complaints against Kia either - when the adhesion threshold is exceeded, all four wheels go into slip, which simplifies driving by changing traction. The situation is about the same for the Japanese, but the native Michelin Pilot Sport 3 tires that come with the base on the Optima keep the car on the track better than Toyota's Premium Contact 5 universal tires from Continental.
But on the other hand, Kia is much noisier, even at relatively low speeds, all the buzz from listening to music disappears. If the asphalt is rough or age-related, then it’s time to plug your ears, but such roads are rather commonplace for our country. Finally, the stiffness of the Optima's suspension won't give you much joy on bumpy roads either, despite its high power consumption.
So we can’t say unequivocally which is better in terms of handling, Toyota Camry or Kia Optima. But a lot depends on, and driving style, and many other factors.
Maintenance cost
Operating costs, for known reasons, are also important. In this regard, KIA is noticeably better: a CASCO policy for a Korean costs 40,000 rubles less, you need to undergo MOT every 15 thousand kilometers (for Toyota - every 10,000). The cost of gasoline is less for the Japanese, and with the preservation of the residual price, it is much better here. But many motorists are guided precisely by the liquidity of the purchased car. The appearance of a worthy rival in the face of Optima can change the situation, but it will take a long time.
Options and prices
The budget modification of Optima costs 1.335 million rubles, and the equipment of this car is by no means minimalist:
- rear/front power windows;
- Cruise control;
- electric drive of external mirrors;
- light sensor;
- daytime running LED lights;
- ESC/VSM/HAC/ESS systems;
- front / side PB and curtains;
- tire pressure control.
The most expensive Optima GT equipment with a turbocharged two-liter engine costs from 2.055 million rubles.
The base Toyota Camry has approximately the same list of options:
- LED optics;
- light sensor;
- rear / front power windows;
- electrically adjustable exterior mirrors;
- push-button start of the power unit;
- front / side PB, curtain airbags;
- a set of active safety systems - ABS / EBD / BAS / VSC / HAC / TRC.
But such a modification costs more - 1.57 million.
Top equipment Camry Executive Safety 2019 with a 3.5-liter unit costs 2.5 million rubles.
Optionally, Kia, starting with the budget modification, offers the “Warm Options” package, which, in turn, may include such units as heated windshield in the area of the wiper nozzles, electrically heated exterior mirrors, heated steering wheel and rear seats.
Toyota also has a similar Winter Comfort package: electric heating of the steering wheel, rear sofa and front seats, exterior mirrors, wiper nozzles, windshield, air ducts for the rear sofa, indicator of a drop in the fluid level in the washer reservoir.
What to choose
Outwardly, the new Camry bears little resemblance to the car of the previous generation - the Japanese decided to change its image at the conceptual level, abandoning the calm appearance. Now the car has become youthful, has acquired a pronounced rapid appearance. There are fewer changes in the cabin, here they decided to maintain an orientation towards an increased level of comfort, now for the driver.
But the price for all these innovations is an increase in cost, and quite tangible. If you take into account the traditionally expensive CASCO policy for Camry and the short interval between maintenance (10 thousand kilometers), then you should prepare for the fact that owning a large Japanese sedan will cost you a pretty penny.
From this point of view, the choice between Camry and Optima suggests a roll aside - it costs less in comparable trim levels, and maintenance needs to be carried out one and a half times less often. You should also take into account the five-year warranty from Kia. But otherwise, the cars are close, and in terms of reliability and prestige, Toyota is clearly preferable. And if you expect to sell a car after 5-6 years of operation, then here the advantage of the Japanese is more than obvious.
In 2018, 33,700 units were purchased in Russia. new Toyota Camry and 20,833 pcs. - Kia Optima. In 2017, the results were as follows: 28,199 units. - demand for a Japanese sedan, 12,822 units. - into Korean. That is, compared with the year before last, interest in models increased by 20% and 62%, respectively. Kia is increasingly expanding its presence in the market of new passenger vehicles in Russia. But will Optima be able to further reduce the gap from its competitor at the end of the current year? Let's try to answer this question by comparing these two popular cars.
Prices and equipment
Toyota Camry 2019 model year is offered to customers in seven versions: Standard, Standard Plus, Classic, Elegance Safety, Prestige Safety, Lux Safety and Executive Safety, and Kia Optima 2019 - in eight: Classic, Comfort, Luxe, Prestige, Europa League, Premium, GT Line and GT. The most affordable Camry "Standard" with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine (150 hp) and a 6-speed automatic transmission costs 1,573,000 rubles, and the Optima "Standard" 2.0 (150 hp) and 6-speed "mechanics" - 1,344,900 rubles, that is, 228,100 rubles. (14%) cheaper. Both models are equipped with: front, side airbags and curtain airbags, stability control, audio system, power windows for all doors, alloy wheels, heated front seats, power folding and heated side mirrors. The difference between these configurations is that the "Japanese" engine starts with a button, there are fog lights and dual-zone climate control is installed, and not air conditioning like the "Korean". But at the same time, Kia is equipped with cruise control.
However, the above comparison is not correct in terms of transmission. After all, the Japanese sedan is equipped with an "automatic", not a manual transmission. Let's fix this inaccuracy. Kia Optima "Comfort" 2.0 (150 hp) 6AT is sold for 1,474,900 rubles, that is, for 98,100 rubles. (6%) cheaper. In the “Comfort” package, the “Korean” in addition to the “Classic” received: a heated steering wheel, a rain sensor, gearshift paddles, fog lights and climate control. It turns out that in this version, Optima looks preferable to its opponent, not only in terms of price, but also in terms of a set of options.
Let's skip the numerous intermediate versions, and immediately compare the top-end configurations. Toyota Camry "Executive Safety" with a 3.5-liter V-engine (249 hp) and 8-speed "automatic" costs 2,499,000 rubles, and Kia Optima "GT" with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine (245 hp) and a 6-speed automatic transmission - 2,054,900 rubles, that is, 444,100 rubles. (18%) cheaper. Both sedans are top notch, and this is what they get for the money: heated rear seats, power front seats, knee airbag, four surround cameras, front and rear parking sensors, 8-inch multimedia screen with navigation, blind-monitoring system zones, assistance when reversing from a parking lot, and so on. Camry certainly has a longer list of installed equipment. Toyota Safety Sense active safety systems of the second generation (traffic sign recognition, lane control and driver fatigue, adaptive cruise control, etc.) are the main distinguishing feature of the Japanese car. And whether these technologies correspond to the difference in the cost of two sedans is up to you.
Specifications
The length / width / height of the Toyota Camry 2019 is 4885/1840/1455 mm, the dimensions of the Kia Optima 2019 are 4855/1860/1485 mm, that is, the “Japanese” is longer, but already lower. The wheelbase is smaller for the "Korean" - 2805 mm against 2825 for the opponent. Ground clearance is the same - 155 mm. The fuel tank is noticeably more capacious in the Korean sedan - 70 liters versus 60 liters in the opponent. The luggage compartment of the Japanese model is less - 493 liters versus 510 liters for a competitor.
Toyota Camry 2019 is represented by three gasoline engines: 2.0 (150 hp, 192 Nm); 2.5 (181 hp, 231 Nm); 3.5 (249 hp, 356 Nm), however, like the Kia Optima 2019: 2.0 (150 hp, 196 Nm); 2.4 GDI (188 hp, 241 Nm) and 2.0 T-GDI (245 hp, 350 Nm). In general, rivals have engines with very similar characteristics in their lineup. In conclusion, it is worth saying about the power units that the "Japanese" can only be equipped with a 6- or 8-speed automatic transmission, and the "Korean" - with a 6-speed "mechanics" or "automatic".
And now let's compare the dynamic performance and fuel efficiency of our opponents. Acceleration time from 0 to 100 km / h (fuel consumption in city / highway / combined modes) for Toyota Camry vs Kia Optima is: 2.0 (150 hp) 6AT - 11.0 s (9.7 / 5 .5/7.1 L) vs 10.7s (11.2/5.8/7.8 L); 2.5 (181 hp) 6AT vs 2.4 (188 hp) 6AT - 9.9 s (11.5 / 6.4 / 8.3 L) vs 9.1 s (12, 0 / 6.2 / 8.3 l) and 3.5 (249 hp) 8AT vs 2.0 T-GDI (245 hp) 6AT - 7.7 s (12.5 / 6.4 / 8.7 L) vs 7.4 s (12.5/6.3/8.5 L) respectively. Only the increased gasoline consumption of the “Korean” with a power of 150 hp catches the eye. and the best dynamics of the 2.4-liter engine. And do not forget to mention the most economical modification of the Korean sedan 2.0 (150 hp) 6MT - 9.6 s (10.4 / 6.1 / 7.7 l).
Ownership cost
It's time to find out the cost of maintenance. To do this, take the basic versions of sedans with 2.0-liter engines and automatic transmissions. We will compare costs up to 60,000 km (inclusive). The service interval for the "Japanese" is 10,000 km, and for the "Korean" - 15,000 km. The results are as follows. Toyota Camry 2019: TO-1 (10,000 km) - 13,648 rubles, TO-2 (20,000 km) - 17,834 rubles, TO-3 (30,000 km) - 13,648 rubles, TO-4 ( 40,000 km) - 26,743 rubles, TO-5 (50,000 km) - 13,648 rubles. and TO-6 (60,000 km) - 17,834 rubles. Total: 103,355 rubles. Kia Optima 2019: TO-1 (15,000 km) - 9,138 rubles, TO-3 (30,000 km) - 11,138 rubles, TO-3 (45,000 km) - 10,219 rubles. and TO-4 (60,000 km) - 16,078 rubles. Total: 46,573 rubles, that is, 56,782 rubles (55%) cheaper. In terms of 1 km of run, maintenance costs are: 1 ruble 72 kopecks for Toyota and 78 kopecks for Kia.
And how much does CASCO cost? To answer this question, we will use online calculators. As initial data, we will have a car with a capacity of 150 horsepower for 1,800,000 rubles, which will be driven in Moscow by a married 50-year-old man with 20 years of driving experience and two children. The price for insurance against theft and damage, depending on the company and type of policy for Toyota Camry 2019 vs Kia Optima 2019, is: Rosgosstrakh "Anti-crisis CASCO" - 41,733 rubles. vs 28 312 rubles; Liberty Insurance "KASKO Direct" - 98 340 rubles. vs 76 850 rub. and MAX "Premium" - 187,100 rubles. vs 122 400 rub. respectively. In general, it will be cheaper to insure a Korean sedan.
Summary
The 2019 Toyota Camry is a more high-tech vehicle than its competitor. Numerous electronic systems will make the trip not only safer, but also as comfortable as possible. But if advanced technology is optional for you, then all the magic of this sedan is lost. And the Kia Optima 2019 comes to the fore with its more attractive price for both the car itself and its maintenance and insurance. Also, the Korean sedan will delight the buyer with its dynamics, trunk capacity and advantage in power reserve due to a larger fuel tank. So the “Korean” has every chance to close the gap from the opponent at the end of 2019. Moreover, from January to May (inclusive) of the current year, he has already demonstrated the seriousness of his intentions. In the first five months of 2019, Camry - 13,390 units, Optima - 9,880 units were sold.
The very best Mazda6 and the top Kia Optima. Both with turbo engines. Which one is more talented?
Comparing the appearance of "Mazda" with her age, one involuntarily recalls the fairy tale about rejuvenating apples. The Japanese car looks painfully fresh and bright at the age of six, which is quite mature by automotive standards. Connoisseurs will rightly note the two restylings that have taken place in her life. It was business. But these events did not touch the foundations of the original work of designer Akira Tamani, but only slightly retouched the facade of the heroine.
Here the interior and technology have changed more significantly. During the latest upgrade of the Six, the Japanese not only thoroughly redrawn its interior, but also held a number of events to improve sound insulation and smooth running.
Motors and prices
In addition to these improvements, the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine known to us appeared in the engine range of the sedan. At the same time, atmospheric units did not leave their homes. True, with a version little in demand on the Russian market with a manual, it was decided to leave. The machine that appeared on the 150-horsepower base modification raised the minimum price for a car to 1,498,000 rubles. Surcharge for a faster 2.5 engine with a return of 194 hp. today is 184 thousand rubles.The turbo engine added dynamics and comfort to the Japanese car, but not anger.
We have on the agenda a new option with 231-horsepower 2.5 turbo. For such a sedan, they ask for a minimum of 2,244,000 rubles. However, even the status of the top-end configuration does not prevent Mazda marketers from offering metallic paint, all-round cameras, an extended set of electronic driver assistance systems and a navigator as options. In the end it ran 2 410 100 rubles.
➖ Ergonomics
➖ Suspension
pros
➕ Dynamics
➕ Roomy trunk
➕ Spacious interior
The advantages and disadvantages of Kia Optima 2018-2019 in a new body are identified based on feedback from real owners. More detailed pros and cons of Kia Optima 2.0 and 2.4 with automatic and mechanics can be found in the stories below.
Owner reviews
Great car! The car is 1.5 months old. Nice looking, nice handling. Even with a 2.0 liter engine, excellent dynamics. Good noise isolation at high speed. A very light steering wheel, the presence of cruise control in the simplest configuration, a spacious interior, especially in the back.
With my height (190 cm) it is comfortable on any of the seats and there is even a margin of adjustment behind the wheel! True, I can’t get used to the large size of the car (the previous car was lower class). Gasoline consumption is about 7 liters per 100 km on the highway, about 11 liters per 100 km in the city.
Of the shortcomings, I note a small opening in the trunk and large loops. Ground clearance is 155 mm, but it seems to me that it is less. Very soft rear springs - there are two people on the seat, and the rear suspension drawdown is as if there were 500 kg of cargo in the trunk!
Vladimir, drives a Kia Optima 2.4 (150 hp) 2016
Bought this car after the AUDI Q7 2007, which had an expensive repair. In addition, a car was needed mainly for the track. Of course, Audi rides better, but they are completely different cars.
Six months have passed since the purchase of the Kia Optima GT, we can draw the first conclusions. Rolled carefully. After 10,000 km, the car really became a very decent speaker. From a place it starts not like a hurricane (unpleasantly surprised), but from a speed of 30 km / h it is very brisk, from 50 km / h - with a slip. There are simply no problems with overtaking on the track, the dynamics are very decent at any speed. Definitely not enough all-wheel drive!
Automatic 6-speed, works perfectly. Consumption on the highway on a cruise at a speed of ~ 105 km / h - 6 liters. In the city, 11-12 liters, but with very active driving, you can bring it up to 16. There was a small, fast-moving “triple” of the engine during warm-up, I’ll pay attention to maintenance. Gasoline only 95 from a proven gas station. Doesn't eat oil.
The suspension is very comfortable, really adapts to the road surface. On the primer rides like asphalt. A couple of times on the track, getting into deep and “sharp” pits, the suspension worked on breakdown, which was not very pleasant, but the pits were really big.
It strains a little not “sharp” steering, which practically does not change depending even on the inclusion of the “sport” mode, which cannot be said from the sensations in the dynamics of the car, which differs radically from the “eco” mode. The car does not feel the track.
Lateral seat support is designed, perhaps, only for a very voluminous driver and passenger. Lots of space in the car. The trunk is huge. Behind three passengers are placed very comfortably. Shumka is good, the insulation of the wheel arches fails. The music is great. The climate works great. The main beam is excellent, but the dipped beam, even after additional adjustment (raised a little up), suits only a four.
The owner drives a KIA Optima GT 2.0 (245 hp) 2016.
Car impressions. Everyone says about the 2.0 engine (150 hp) it doesn’t drive, it doesn’t overtake trucks. Well, I don't know, but I'm on my way. Of course, not a fighter, but enough for me. I am a family man, I have children, there is no hurry.
Consumption on the highway in sport mode at a speed of 130-140 km / h is approximately 7.5-9 liters of 95 gasoline, in the city in a calm manner 10-11 liters, in sport mode in the city with air conditioning - 15 liters, without air conditioning - 12-13 l. I have never ridden in eco-mode, they say the consumption will be even lower.
The automatic transmission does not kick in normal mode, you don’t even feel it when it switches, but in sport mode it kicks a little (from second to third). Many write that the box itself adapts to the driving style, so if you drive dynamically (aggressively) all the time in sport mode, then it does not kick.
The suspension is normal on 17-inch wheels, it swallows small and medium bumps, but it is harsh for deep bumps. Handling is good, you don’t feel the speed, but sometimes it recognizes the track under the wheels. Shumka is not bad, but there is noise from the arches. Interior comfort at "five".
What I didn’t like about Optima was the slippery steering wheel, covered with very smooth leather (maybe leatherette). I don't know if it will last long. Also, the car has too wide sills, and the children get their pants dirty all the time.
What I lack in it is a circular view (although there are more expensive trim levels). The car is big, and the hood is wide, so I won’t get used to the dimensions when I drive into the garage.
Review of Kia Optima 2.0 with a 2017 automatic
Video review
I won't comment on the appearance. In my opinion, it looks solid with a touch of sportiness, but nothing more.
The interior is where it gets interesting. It reminds me of the interiors of German cars, especially Audi five or seven years ago. The console is turned towards the driver. All buttons are at hand. The quality of the materials is on par with the competition and certainly head and shoulders above anything I've ridden in the past.
The trunk is huge. In the underground there is a full-size spare tire on an alloy wheel, but there are no additional niches and compartments, although on the same Rio there were convenient compartments for storing small items. In general, in terms of arranging the trunk, for some reason, the Koreans do not look at the same Germans who have a bunch of mesh hooks and other things in the trunk.
Engine and box. The fundamental point when changing from Rio to a new car was that the dynamics of the new car should be better, or the same as in Rio. Rio in manual transmission was very brisk for a cheap car, about 10 seconds to 100 km / h. Accordingly, I didn’t even look at the 2.0-liter Optima, since the power reserve for overtaking on the highway was important for me.
In principle, I did not expect anything supernatural from the 2.4 engine, given the huge mass of the car (1.7 tons, which is 200 kg heavier than the same "six"). In fact, it turned out that Optima is a little more dynamic than Rio. According to the passport, Optima is faster by 1.0 seconds, but this is somehow not felt on the go, perhaps due to much better sound insulation and dimensions.
Suspension. Here is just a breakthrough for the Koreans. I think it's no secret to anyone that it is the suspension that is the weak point of all Korean cars, not in terms of reliability, but in terms of tuning. In the review of Rio, I wrote in detail about this. Optima in this regard is a breakthrough for Korean cars: the suspension is energy-intensive, at the same time it does not sway. Smooth running at a very good level
The owner drives a Kia Optima 2.4 (188 HP) AT 2016.
Where can I buy?
About the salon: there are really a lot of places! For example, in the 2012 Accord, I couldn’t sit down by myself (height is 182 cm), and here even my knees don’t reach the front seat. The seats are very comfortable, the lower part is long (unlike the Japanese), and there part of the leg always “hangs” in the air.
About the engine: The engine is the #1 reason to buy this car. Under the hood is a 245-horsepower engine, which, with the economy of a conventional four-cylinder, rides no worse, and somewhere even better than six-cylinder ones. I will say in advance that I will not judge the resource, time will tell.
Consumption now does not rise above 10 liters per hundred. While I'm still rolling. Even if you drive actively, I don’t think it will be more than on the Accord, but the car drives in a completely different way.
The automatic machine works slowly, it switches slowly, it seems to me, but with such an engine you don’t notice this, since it pulls from any speed, nullifying the errors of the automatic machine.
The suspension is similar to the chord one, due to the 18-inch wheels it is harsh. With a car that had 16-inch wheels, a huge difference, but you have to pay for beauty with comfort!
Review of Kia Optima GT 2.4 (245 hp) on the machine in 2016
