Kia Optima 2.4 GDI. Price: 1 399 900 rubles. On sale: from March 2016
Kia OPTIMA 2.0 T-GDI. Price: 1 719 900 rubles. On sale: from March 2016
The design of the front body kit varies by market. Russia got a more aggressive version
In keeping with Korean tradition, Kia has prepared several design variations for different markets. But, what is gratifying, Russia received, perhaps, the most emotional version with predatory built-in nostrils of air intakes in the corners of the front body kit. Moreover, the most interesting thing is that these air intakes are not at all an imitation, created solely for the sake of visual complexity of the design, but quite functional elements. Through the air outlets, they bring the flow to the front calipers for brake cooling.
Optima profile is classic and elegant
Globally, the overall visual style of the car has not changed. The genetic traits of the past generation of Optima can be traced. But at the same time, the car became an order of magnitude brighter and more expressive. First of all, thanks to the hood line emphasized by the moldings and the more complex shape of the head optics.
The headlights generally pleased with their universal adaptability: they stand out in the stream, do not blind during the day and brightly illuminate the road at night.
The fact that the Korean business flagship has become 25 mm wider, 10 mm longer and 30 mm higher can be felt with the naked eye only in the vertical dimension: the grown body added solidity to the Optima, but at the level of visual perception, the new size ratio led to the fact that the car looks a little narrower than it actually is.
The front and rear cameras are complemented by an eagle-eye surround view system.
Another interesting point - how Optima looks in the stream. When you drive behind this Kia and see its stern, a certain dissonance of perception is created: the lower part with a Kia_ diffuser under the bumper suggests analogies with Mercedes, and the LED rear optics gives the impression that this is still a car close to the Bavarian family - BMW. Of course, the similarity can be traced not at the level of copying, but rather as a background of general adherence to the style set in the business class by the German giants.
Narrow LED taillights in the dark look very stylish
Inside, the Optima has been updated, perhaps even more seriously than on the outside, having received, in fact, a completely new interior with a driver-oriented center console at an angle of 8.5 °. The instrument panel with a 4.3-inch LCD display, the steering wheel, trim elements and materials, luxury semi-sport seats with elegant red stitching ... The latter are identical for both versions of Optima - naturally aspirated and turbocharged. Except that on the “turbo” seats, two more proud GT letters are embroidered on the back. This is where things get interesting...
In the depths of the 510-liter trunk, you can "drown"
With a 1.5 times stiffer body that is now 50% high-strength steel, a new rack-mounted electric power steering system and a stiffer front suspension, the new Optima takes a very large step forward in terms of handling, standing on one step with recognized class leaders. And in combination with the most powerful 245-horsepower turbo engine in the history of the model, it feels like it completely surpasses its own capabilities. Although with some caveats...
The front seats of the new Optima combine sportiness and comfort
When the first Optima arrived from the factory to the Kaliningrad Kia dealer, the directors of all the surrounding dealerships gathered to look at the Korean miracle. Those who managed to ride the GT version, not knowing its real performance characteristics, got out of the car in complete delight and confidence that Kia accelerates to hundreds of seconds in five ... The real dynamics of Optima, even in its most powerful version, is one and a half times more modest - 7.4 s to 100 km / h. But this, as they say, behind the eyes. Especially when you consider that in economy mode, even at speeds over 130 km / h, fuel consumption, and not “on paper”, but on the road, can be maintained at 8.8–9 l / 100 km.
The front console is focused on the driver at an angle of 8.5 degrees
The weakness of the Optima GT is different: with such power and relative lightness of the car (1655–1755 kg), the grip properties of rubber are simply not enough, and with a sharp start, the front drive wheels break into axle boxes. In general, this deliberate lightness of Optima is the most ambiguous trait of her character. On the one hand, lightness is an undeniable trump card of the car, in combination with the powerful brakes of the GT version, providing crazy braking dynamics. But on the other hand, in combination with the cosmic, by the standards of the car, power of the turbo version, it gives the Optima an excessive “airiness”. As part of the test drive, it turned out that at speeds above 160-170 km / h, a lack of downforce begins to be clearly felt: for its dynamic characteristics, the turbo Optima is underloaded, which does not have the best effect on the car's road holding and is especially acute on the turbocharged version with its stiffer suspension and powerful brakes. The atmospheric Optima is noticeably softer both in terms of suspension and in terms of acceleration and braking dynamics. The brakes on the atmospheric version of the GT-line are simpler, and it provokes much less aggression, although acceleration to hundreds in 9.1 seconds also looks quite decent for an elegant business sedan. And for an atmospheric engine, this is more than ... However, everything is known in comparison. In this case - in comparison with Optima GT.
A lot of controls are concentrated under the gearbox selector, but the ergonomics are thought out
But if you can still argue about the turbo version with its ferocious disposition, then the atmospheric Optima with its softened suspension in terms of comfort is definitely on the same level with competitors such as the Toyota Camry and Ford Mondeo. At the same time, a touch of sportiness is also present in it. For example, landing in both cars is sporty low, which somewhat hides visibility. To compensate for this relative inconvenience during parking and maneuvering in confined spaces, front, rear and all-round cameras are designed.
In terms of the number of comfort options and functionality of auxiliary electronics, Optima, if not superior, then certainly not inferior to the best representatives of its class. Especially since some of these options - navigation, climate and harman / kardon audio system - claim to be considered the best in their segment. However, like the new Korean business sedan of the 2016 model.
Rear sofa pleases with space and comfort
Driving
The turbo version is emotional, sometimes even too much, while both modifications can boast of good handling
Salon
The interior is not futuristic, but very functional and ergonomic. Quality of materials at a decent level
Comfort
Good noise isolation, atmospheric version with its softer suspension has some advantage in ride comfort
Safety
The increase in body rigidity by one and a half times favorably affected not only handling, but also safety
Price
The initial price of Optima looks affordable - from 1,069,900 rubles. But our heroes today are much more expensive
Average score
- Dynamics and comfort, navigation system, audio system, good noise isolation, low fuel consumption
- At high speeds, the aerodynamic underload of the car is felt
Verdict
The new Optima is really good, but in the segment of mid-priced business sedans, one of the main advantages of the car is its affordability. The Kaliningrad assembly allows KIA to approach this aspect quite flexibly, which opens up optimistic prospects for the model.
Measured Hamburg with paving stones still preserved in the city, free central streets even on a weekday working day and the famous high-speed German autobahns. In the homeland of the big German trio, the Kia Optima business class sedan looks like a real alien. On the one hand, it certainly arouses interest with its impressive size and elegant silhouette. On the other hand, questions rightly arise for a daredevil with claims: you didn’t make a mistake with the door, are you sure you’re in business class? Well, let's check in action what the Koreans have achieved by honing their skills on the updated fourth-generation Optima, the sales of which started in Russia this spring.
Understanding Kia's equipment options, their meanings and pitfalls, as always, takes some time. Let's go from the motors, of which three are offered. The first is a 2-liter 150-horsepower upgraded gasoline unit. When it is selected, four types of equipment are available. Only in the simplest Comfort version, the Optima model comes with a 6-speed manual, then only an “automatic”. According to Kia, mechanics are mainly bought only for corporate fleets and the share of such orders does not exceed 5%.
The most sold, according to the expectations of marketers, should be a complete set with a 2-liter engine with a capacity of 150 hp. and "automatic".
The next engine is the new 2.4-liter GDI engine, whose power is already 188 hp. They are equipped with the top versions of Luxe and Prestige, as well as the GT-line. It was the same, more elegant version with the GT-line options package that we got for the whole day. Its main difference is the details of the exterior and interior, which externally make the Optima more noticeable and add a sporty accent to the perception of the car. For example, unlike the “regular” version, this version is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, a radiator grille and sports-style bumpers: at the back you can see a pseudo-diffuser and a pair of exhaust pipes. For even more individuality, touches such as red front brake calipers, a sports steering wheel with GT-line emblem and red stitching on the seats help to add to the individuality. It turns out that the mid-engined Optima was simply dressed up in the sports uniform of its older brother, the GT.
So you can safely brag about your unusualness and sportiness, but do not pay extra 130 thousand rubles for a turbocharged 2.4-liter unit with a capacity of 245 hp. This is the third version of the power unit, which comes only with a real jetty.
The most expensive and fastest Optima can be immediately recognized by the four red calipers.
Expensive and rich
Externally, Kia Optima has really changed, retaining the features inherent in the model. Headlights, bumpers, grille, unusual aerodynamic mesh on the sides of the air intake - everything looks fresh and beautiful. By the time of the test drive, the most advanced versions were assembled at the plant in Kaliningrad, and therefore the equipment is appropriate. Here and elegant moldings on the sides, a panoramic roof. The cabin is also rich - the front seats are electrically adjustable and ventilated, and the driver's seat will remember your favorite settings, separate climate control, an automatic windshield defogging system.
The interior has become even freer. The front seats are equipped with superior comfort with ventilation and three degrees of airflow, which can be customized using electric adjustments. Space for rear passengers has been increased by adding 15mm for head and shoulders and 25mm for legs.
KiaEverything is sewn-knocked down with Korean thoroughness, and, in fact, there is nothing to complain about. Leather, aluminum inserts, nice red stitching that you want to stroke. It is comfortable to sit both in front and behind, where passengers have added seats.
The instrument panel was turned towards the driver, making it clear who was in charge in the car.
Of the new chips - a wireless charging system for cell phones that support this feature. You can put the device in a niche near the gear lever, and the process will go. Interestingly, this trick did not work with the iPhone5 (as it turned out, Optima is not friendly with the iPhone at all) - I had to attach a special adapter to the phone to make sure that the option really works. Another controversial trick that the Optima has learned is the automatic trunk opening, which should save the driver with bags in hand from unnecessary maneuvers.
If you stand at the trunk for three seconds with the key in your pocket, it will actually open slightly, but will not rise. It turns out that in order to open the lid, you still have to lower all the luggage to the ground.
Even with the button on the key, you can raise and lower the windows - it works without a hitch.
When driving, you realize that the cabin is very quiet. When the doors are closed in the cabin, a characteristic “vacuum” is formed in which you can listen to music: the rumble from the engine will not interfere with the accompaniment in any way. In the top versions, a Harman / Kardon audio system with 10 speakers is installed, including a subwoofer and an external amplifier. Real music lovers should not expect discoveries and live concert sound, but for an ordinary listener with a good collection of tracks in a smartphone, this option will be more than enough. In general, the option is more democratic, with six speakers, it looks optimal if you don’t want to overpay too much for no particular reason.
Relax on the autobahn
Traveling on the Optima from the port business of Hamburg to the historic serious Berlin mainly ran along highways. You can get on the autobahn by making several maneuvers along city streets with an extremely clear organization of traffic. It is difficult to get lost, the main thing is to watch carefully in order to let a relaxed cyclist pass in time. Those who find themselves on an unlimited high-speed autobahn in Germany for the first time will be surprised that there is still a speed limit there. They only influence the behavior of drivers in Germany not by road signs, but by common sense. So, in case of an accident, the insurance company will compensate for damage only if you were driving at an average speed of no more than 130 km / h. But such statements do not frighten, and, seeing the coveted "unlimited" sign, I squeeze the gas.
Well, red stitching and flashy seats do not turn the Optima with 188 “horses” under the hood into a sports car. And the acceleration dynamics of 9.1 seconds to “hundreds” does not cause vivid emotions.
Optima does its job strictly according to the estimate, drawn up with German thoroughness, and bonuses in the form of excitement from driving are clearly not included in it. You will be comfortable and relaxed. The car is obedient to drive, but your fuse is enough to overtake the dignified burgher in the right lane. After that, you will want to set the cruise control to pensioner speed and sedately, without hurrying anywhere, move to your destination. But after all, no one says that this is bad - for life in the rhythm of the city, these parameters fit perfectly.
Meanwhile, it turns out that on the autobahns, not everyone is as meticulously careful in driving as we were warned. You can easily run into a situation when a truck unexpectedly taxis into the left lane and tries to overtake the same one following on the right at a speed of 100 km / h for a long time. In the event of such surprises, the brakes work perfectly and clearly. In the event that you yourself suddenly gape and decide to change lanes at the wrong time, the lane change assistance system will give a warning signal.
To diversify the trip, we managed several times to move out onto empty country roads and paving stones.
There, the suspension performed very well: the uneven road under the wheels of the Optima turned out to be not so shaky at all. And the sedan calmly swallowed deep pits and did not bother anyone in the car. Quite a different matter compared to what it was in the past.
Colleagues sometimes flew by on roaring turbocharged GTs - apparently, if you want to go faster, you will have to fork out for the most expensive equipment.
Will the price intimidate competitors?
At the first acquaintance with the price list, it seems that with such figures, the Kia Optima will beat the nearest competitors as if there is nothing to do. But you must immediately understand that 1,069,900 is only the starting empty version on the "handle". Kia directly says that only a few choose this option. Looking later at the brand's car dealership, I studied the simpler configurations. Without prestigious options, the car looks modest inside. And for those who traveled on it in the top version, it’s generally lonely - a fabric interior, there is no heating.
So those who need a real "business" with a warm leather steering wheel and interior should consider Optima only with Luxe or Prestige equipment. But this is already 1,319,900-1,399,900 rubles.
Consequently, the Toyota Camry is already pulling up here, which, after a recent update, even if it lost part of its iconic image and became a sleek family sedan, is still very loved in Russia (1,364,000 rubles for the starting equipment with a 6-speed "automatic"). Mazda 6 will also have to fight, which will definitely not let you get bored behind the wheel, but costs from 1,304,000 rubles in the base with an “automatic”. Let's not forget with an initial price tag of 1,099,000 rubles. To complete the picture, you can add Volkswagen Passat and, but still they play at a higher level and also have all-wheel drive versions. In general, the Koreans entered the market at a difficult time with a new model and a worthy price that calls for reflection. That's what you can think of when you suddenly want something more.
Also, Gazeta.Ru recently tested another new product from Kia - the Sportage model. You can read the report on this
The Kia Optima business class sedan, which has been leading its history since 2000, is one of the most popular models of the Korean manufacturer. The car is quite successfully sold in the markets of many countries, while enjoying a particularly high demand in the United States. Here, Optima has been confidently holding the palm among all KIA models for several years now. So, in 2014, in the US market, the sedan sold almost 160 thousand cars. In this regard, it is not at all surprising that the North American continent, or rather the New York Auto Show 2015, traditionally held in April, was chosen as the place for the presentation of the fourth generation of Optima. The model will be shown to European consumers at the Frankfurt Salon, which starts in September.
It should be noted right away that the overseas version of the Kia Optima 2016-2017 model year has slight external differences from the version that will be sold in the Old World market. However, in general, the design and configuration of the model are unified, so it will not be difficult to recognize it on the roads of any city. And yet, in this review, attention will be focused on the European version, since it is its appearance that should be expected in Russia.
The change of generations of the Korean sedan did not affect the platform used in the production of the car. The model still uses the same base that left the Russian market. In fairness, it must be said that the platform has undergone modernization not so long ago, which means that there was no particular need to change anything else in this regard. However, the overall dimensions of the novelty compared to were slightly adjusted. The sedan has become larger in all three main dimensions: the increase in length was 10 mm, in width and height - 25 and 10 mm, respectively. The final dimensions are as follows: 4855x1860x1465 mm. The wheelbase has not been left without attention, which has increased to 2805 mm (+10 mm to the previous figure). Ground clearance (clearance) is still 145 mm.
External design is traditionally one of the strengths of the South Korean model. The new Kia Optima 2016-2017, although it underwent some transformations in the exterior, retained all the best from its predecessors. Having carefully examined the nose of the sedan, we note slightly modified headlights, which received an original bend in the lower part. The strips of running lights have also moved down, but the configuration of the main optics has largely remained untouched. The branded radiator grill, called the “tiger nose”, retained its easily recognizable outlines, while receiving a different, more embossed cell structure. The front bumper is the element that took over the lion's share of frontal updates. Completely different side cutouts appeared on it, which are now connected with the help of chrome beams to three-section fog lamps inscribed in the corners of the central cutout of the air intake.
Viewing the new generation of the sedan from the side reveals a familiar silhouette, which forms the model's swift and dynamic appearance. The profile of the Kia Optima sample of 2016-2017 is formed by a long hood, a strongly inclined windshield, a domed roof, and a well-designed high stern. The sides of the car body are almost flat with branded "gills" in the area of the front wheel arches.
The “back” of the new Optima, after the reform, received narrow horizontal ceiling lamps and a solid bumper, into which a diffuser and an exhaust pipe, shifted to the right edge, are built. Most likely, a sporty exhaust system configuration option with a more complex diffuser design and two oval-shaped pipes spaced at the edges will also be available.
The updated exterior made it possible not only to refresh the external design of the car, but also to improve its aerodynamic performance - the coefficient of resistance to the oncoming flow decreased from 0.30 to 0.29.
The fourth-generation Kia Optima interior is decorated using high-quality materials, including soft plastics, genuine leather and metal inserts. Everything shows that the developers tried to meet the high requirements of the business class, which they succeeded in full. Ergonomics also did not go unnoticed. The center console, as before deployed to the driver, in the new version of the sedan has acquired a slightly different structure of elements. Thus, the ventilation holes that previously surrounded the multimedia screen on both sides have changed their shape and moved down. The climate and multimedia control units have also undergone minor adjustments.
The slightly modified architecture of the front of the cabin has retained a friendly interface that allows the driver to easily interact with the vehicle's systems. The main amount of data is transmitted to two displays - 8-inch on the console and 4.3-inch in the instrument cluster. Both screens provide excellent image quality. The main multimedia system can be controlled by Android Auto and Apple Carplay, which guarantees seamless connection of any smartphone models. USB, AUX, Bluetooth interfaces are available. Also, for the updated Kia Optima model, wireless charging of smartphones is available, which will become the prerogative of top trim levels.
The spacious rear row of seats after the change of generations is ready to provide passengers with even more freedom. The increase in the area of the knees was 25 mm, in the area of the shoulders - 17 mm, above the head - 15 mm. The rear sofa is cut in a ratio of 60:40, which allows you to transform the interior and adapt it to transport long items. The trunk volume of the sedan has grown by a slight 5 liters, which was added to the previous 505 liters.
The list of electronic assistants Kia Optima 2016-2017 includes a marking control system, a blind spot monitoring system, an automatic parking attendant, an assistance system when reversing from a parking lot, a cross-traffic control system, and an automatic braking system with pedestrian recognition.
KIA engineers have prepared two power plants for European Optima sedans. The 1.7-liter CRDI diesel unit has been upgraded and now produces 141 hp at a peak torque of 340 Nm. The petrol 2.0-liter "four" is capable of generating up to 163 hp. power and up to 196 Nm of torque. In tandem with the diesel engine, a DCT robotic gearbox with two clutches will work, and the gasoline unit will be paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-band “automatic”.
The suspension of the car during the change of generations has undergone modernization, affecting the subframes, rear levers, front hub bearings. The changes did not affect the overall scheme: MacPherson struts are still installed in the front, and a multi-link in the back. The main innovation is the ability to optionally order adaptive dampers that can adjust to two modes - normal and sport.
In addition to the standard modifications of Optima, the manufacturer plans to bring to market a hybrid version, a "charged" version of the GT and, probably, a station wagon.
The 4th generation sedan will arrive in Russia no earlier than the beginning of 2016, at the same time it will be possible to get acquainted with the prices and the list of trim levels. Kia Optima in a new body should hit the markets of a number of European countries much earlier - towards the end of 2015.
Kia Optima - prices and equipment
Russian prices for the new Kia Optima were announced on February 15, 2016, the start of sales will take place on March 9. The basic version of the sedan with a 2.0 engine (150 hp) and a 6-speed manual transmission will cost 1,069,900 rubles. The Classic package priced at this amount includes LED running lights, power windows front and rear, power folding side mirrors (plus heating and electrical adjustment), heated wiper zone, air conditioning, an audio system with 6 speakers (AUX, USB), cruise control, stability control system, emergency braking system, hill start assistant, six airbags, 16-inch wheels.
The more expensive Comfort version provides for LED fog lights, heated front seats and steering wheel (leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearshift lever), steering column switches, dual-zone climate control with ionization and anti-fogging system, Drive Mode Select switch, USB for rear row passengers .
The Luxe package includes LED taillights, leather interior, 4.3-inch Supervision panel, power driver's seat with settings memory, 7-inch multimedia system (navigation, SD card slot), rear view camera, 17-inch wheels.
The Prestige equipment level involves the installation of xenon headlights with automatic tilt adjustment, a blind spot monitoring system, a reverse parking assist system, an intelligent trunk opening system, multimedia with an 8-inch screen, heated rear seats, a premium audio system with 10-inch speakers.
The sports version of the Kia Optima GT with a 245-horsepower T-GDI turbo engine is equipped with different bumpers and a radiator grille, adaptive bi-xenon headlights, a panoramic sunroof, leather interior with red stitching and aluminum trim, seats and a steering wheel with the GT logo, 18-inch disks.
Photo Kia Optima 2016-2017
Here is the new Kia Optima - a 4-door family sedan, whose competitors include the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat and. Outwardly, the "Korean" is not as good as, for example, the Mazda "six". Yes, and the cost of "Optima" in Ukraine is almost a hundred thousand hryvnia more expensive than the "Japanese". But the Korean car is cheaper than the same Ford. And the Passat will cost you a little more.
Kia Optima has been completely updated for 2016 to keep up with the refreshed Ford Mondeo and. In general, the style of the sedan has remained virtually unchanged. Although, to make the car more streamlined, the designers still conjured over the rear and front of it.
At the moment, Kia offers its customers a “choice without choice” - only one engine is installed on the Optima - a 1.7-liter turbodiesel, paired with a 7-speed robotic transmission with two clutches.
But the Optima's equipment is quite optimal - seven airbags, dual-zone climate control, electronic systems - assistants, cruise control, alloy wheels - as standard in all three available versions of the car.
Competitors
Engine and control
In terms of “driveability” in handling, the Optima lags behind, for example, the Skoda Superb or Mazda 6. Driving pleasure is, of course, not the main factor when choosing a family sedan. But "Czech" or "Japanese" will look like a much more advantageous option. The Optima's steering feels fuzzy, sluggish and doesn't inspire confidence. The updated suspension follows the same formula as the steering wheel - soft and comfortable, but at the same time makes passengers "go limp" when cornering quickly.
New Kia Optima (2016) The only engine in the Optima lineup puts out 141 horsepower, which sounds good on paper. On the track, Kia is unlikely to overtake its more assertive and energetic rivals. In addition, the motor is noisy and rattling, which makes it feel somewhat unbalanced with the rest of the car. Acceleration to "hundreds" takes 11 seconds.
Specifications
Interior and comfort
The inside of the Kia Optima is well built, with nice materials, but the car's design isn't thrillingly appealing either. Sitting in the Optima salon, you feel a certain monotony and drearyness. The interior design of the new Volkswagen Passat and Skoda Superb is still one step ahead of the "Korean".
Improved sound deadening, combined with a stiffer car body and upgraded suspension, make the Optima a good option for long trips. The diesel engine, which sounds rough when accelerating, settles down on the highway at cruising speeds, so wind noise is unlikely to disturb the calm.
Practicality and spaciousness
There is plenty of room in the front of the Kia, and the driver's seat is height-adjustable for good visibility. The back row can comfortably accommodate two adult passengers. Convenience on the road will add a folding armrest with cup holders.
Salon Kia Optima 2016 Car trunk volume - 510 liters. Not a little, although 115 liters less than the Skoda Superb, for example. And the high threshold of the luggage compartment complicates the loading of heavy items. The rear row of seats in the Optima folds in a ratio of 60:40, thereby freeing up even more space. Except Kia has never reported the total boot space with the seats folded down for this car.
You can also keep things in door pockets, a small lockable compartment in the armrest, a cooled glove box. But none of these storage compartments will fit, for example, a large bottle of water.
Reliability and security
Surprisingly, but the fact is that until 2015, the Kia Optima never passed Euro NCAP crash tests. And although the sedan is based on another Korean car, the Hyundai i40, which received a five-star safety rating back in 2011, buyers are much more comfortable choosing a car based on the crash test results of a particular model.
Packages and options
It will not be difficult to determine the degree of staffing of the Optima by the name of the configurations themselves - Comfort, Business and Luxury.
Kia Optima 2016, interior In the basic version for Ukraine Comfort there is everything you need for a comfortable ride - 16-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, electronic stability control, hill-climb assistance, cruise control and Bluetooth.
Business option complemented by a rain sensor, front and rear parking sensors, electronic parking brake, xenon headlights, combined fabric-leather seat upholstery and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Well, and the owners of the car in the configuration Luxury experience the wireless charger, Tom Tom navigation system, premium sound system and rearview camera. Keyless entry, electrically adjustable driver's seats (8 positions) and passenger seats with lateral support and ventilation, 18-inch alloy wheels and leather upholstery are another hallmark of the luxury Optima.
Large sedans are in favor at all times - at least here in Russia. A typical buyer is a man closer to forty, belonging to the middle class, prosperous by Russian standards. This is difficult to surprise with something, and the requirements are high.
The unshakable class leader Toyota Camry survived restyling a year and a half ago - and confidently won our comparative test (ЗР, 2015, No. 4), but Kia Optima lost it: we complained about unimportant ride and sound insulation. She also lost in the market war. But it would be foolish to think that hard-working Koreans will put up with this state of affairs.
And here we have a new generation Optima. With whom to compare it, if not with the Camry? The updated Mazda 6 and Volkswagen Passat B8 will act as seconds in this duel. All cars - with engines from 180 to 192 hp. and automatic transmissions.
Unsinkable
The rejuvenated Kia Optima will suit both lovers of a leisurely, relaxing ride, and moderately active drivers.
Toyota Camry unconditionally leads the segment, but is no longer young: five years is a serious age by today's standards. And more than anything else, it gives out the interior in the cabinet style. The build quality is high, but the materials are not the best. Inserts under the tree are immediately recognized as plastic. Does not add glasses and silver-plated metal decor. Sand color interior? But this is not snow-white Caribbean sand, but our dear, yellowish, from the Ramensky district near Moscow.
The appearance of a soft driver's seat with wide-spaced side support rollers does not cause delight, but it is comfortable to sit. The steering wheel trimmed with rough leather has an optimal section.
But a scattering of rectangular keys on the front panel and the legendary electronic clock pull the car into the distant past.
What can please Toyota? Good visibility - no cameras are needed (although there is a rear one), or other electronic assistants. And also a spacious rear next to the low central tunnel: passengers are delighted.
A bunch of engine and box works smoothly. Petrol 2.5‑liter “four” with a capacity of 181 hp confidently pulls a one and a half ton sedan in the entire rev range - albeit without a spark. The six-speed automatic is a little thoughtful, but it changes gears extremely smoothly, imperceptibly. The frankly empty and “longest” steering wheel in our quartet does not bring excitement (three turns from lock to lock).
Camry - not for fast turns. It's for a relaxed ride. Straight track, measured acceleration - that's her element. Good sound insulation (only weak aerodynamic noise penetrates into the cabin) only emphasizes the sedateness of the car. And the main trump card is the smoothness of the ride. Small things dissolve somewhere in the shock absorbers and silent blocks, and the big stuff responds only with a smooth swaying of the stern. So calm, just calm!
