Test drive KIA Optima: for those who love more authenticity. Red, black, brown

For 18 years now, we have been watching the release of the Kia Optima, which has acquired a lot of unique features over so long and became the apogee of the company's quest to develop the ideal D-class sedan, which would be subject to pushing the eminent competitors on the pedestal. In 2015, the company's success was characterized by the release of the Optima model already in the 4th generation, modifications with updated design and a large number of new interesting features. Especially for those who still have doubts about whether to buy this car, we spent Kia test drive Optima, which gave an idea of ​​its features, which we will discuss in today's article.

Design

The fourth and third generations do not have as many differences as between, for example, the third and the first, and almost all of them are in the details. To the mass viewer new Kia Optima fourth generation Introduced as a "Camry killer," it may seem like a slightly revamped version of the third generation model, and we'll tell you why both of these arguments are close to the truth.

The cheapest, basic modification of a business class sedan will cost a little more than 1,000,000 rubles, and you are probably wondering what that kind of money is for. The design of its predecessor was not distinguished by such aggression and a raised front end, which the 2018 Optima can boast of. In addition, there appeared additional headlights, foglights were added to the main lighting system, the radiator grille visually narrowed in width and expanded along the bumper line. We got our hands on a top-end model, Kia Optima GT, equipped with a two-liter gasoline turbo engine with a total power of 245 hp. Opening the car door, you immediately realize that there is nothing here that resembles the cheap finish of the old Logan and not even a single hint of the interior of the updated Solaris.
Not only the exterior, but also the interior of the model with all its appearance shows that in front of you is an instance of a business class, and these are not just words. Roof new GT-line- panoramic, glass with matt tinted glass. Dark color the roof is complemented by an "All black" trim in the cabin. The body insulation has been calibrated to such an extent that you can hardly hear the sound of a running engine. From the inside, the roof seems flat, a similar impression is created by the edges of the dashboard - there are no soft curves of the Solaris, everything is made in a strict, solid style, the interior trim does not give off a cheap leatherette smell. There is enough space under the steering wheel so that a tall driver can comfortably position his legs, but if suddenly there is not enough space, you can adjust the seat by pressing buttons.
The sound equipment (now here Harman / Kardon) has greatly improved, compared to the old audio system, circular monitoring from external cameras appeared, working in symbiosis with the "auto-parking" mode, the company's engineers also presented the owners family cars heating rear seats... With this stuffing, the car cannot be small, so the Optima has grown in length, height and width. This result was achieved thanks to the use of new body panels, in which the percentage of high-strength steel alloys increased, which led to a decrease in body weight and an improvement in its dynamic characteristics. Indeed, Optima can rightfully be called a representative of the business class - everything here, from components to design, is intended for the sophisticated buyer.

Road

Optima is driven in one of three modes - Eco, Normal, Sport. It is possible to pack both mechanical and automatic transmissions in any of the car configurations, so your subjective driving sensations may differ from ours, depending on which gearbox you choose for yourself. Gear shifting on our machine is smooth, but on high speeds the leaps are still palpable. In the city race, we did not notice a strong difference between the economy and the normal mode, the sporty one was discarded almost immediately as impractical for the urban environment, although the handling and dynamics in it are unsurpassed. The steering wheel turns smoothly, the car does not heel when cornering, which indicates the precise work of the amplifier.
When driving on the highway in SPORT mode, the Kia Optima consumes almost 15 l / 100 km, and in economy mode, driving on the highway, of course, is unprofitable, and it does not reveal the dynamics at all. Acceleration to a hundred at Optima in maximum configuration with a turbocharged engine it takes 7.1 seconds, while we managed to reach an indicator of 9 seconds.

The car holds good grip at speeds above 120 km / h and does not prowl around. A test drive of the Kia Optima showed that the brakes grip the pads perfectly, if you press them smoothly and to the end, with a slight pressure, the braking may not seem sharp enough, the brakes are not tight and you can get used to the system in a couple of trips. The suspension almost completely dampens small bumps on the road, but it does not work out as well as we would like in a deep hole or a speed bump.

Complete set

Today updated Kia Optima is featured on Russian market in 6 trim levels, starting from a cost of 1,060,000 rubles for a basic package with a 2-liter gasoline engine volume of 2 liters and a capacity of 150 hp, and the most advanced version of the car is equipped, as already mentioned above, a turbocharged gas engine with a volume of 2 liters and a capacity of 245 hp. The most expensive modification, Optima GT will cost the buyer 1.8 million rubles and will be equipped with automatic transmission electronically adjustable, mechanics are only available in the basic version.

Conclusion: The Optima model can be called optimal, because it maintains a balance of comfort and quality, the price tag is relatively democratic for a business-class model, seeing it on the street we recognize the Kia's signature style. In the usual sense, the car cannot be called undignified, it clearly outperforms budget models both in performance and in the quality of components, which suggests that it is unlikely that Optima will become a full-fledged competitor for Camry, but with such dynamics and interior, it comes on the heels of the closest rivals.

To the delight of lovers of "more authentic" sedans, a new generation, already the fourth in a row, has appeared in Russian showrooms since February last year. The design of the car, which came from the pen of the indefatigable Peter Schreier, fell in love with our compatriots, as evidenced by the impressive results. In January-September of the current year, 8680 people made a choice in favor of Optima - and this, for a second, is twice as much as in three quarters of 2016, when only 4283 cars were sold.


Cars of this class are purchased, of course, not by Rockefellers, but at least by people with an above-average income. That is, if you do not take into account those characters who are ready to eat "doshirak" for years, if only the neighbors choked with saliva, looking at them. Therefore, it is natural that "Optima" has a spectacular appearance, spacious salon and a powerful enough engine.

To be honest, I also liked the exterior of Schreier's brainchild. He is simultaneously aggressive, strict and modern - although, in principle, the same can be safely said about any of his classmates. But still, there is something very extraordinary in the “Korean”, which favorably distinguishes it from the background. It is not without reason that the elegantly sporty, expressively contoured silhouette of the “Optima” passing by evokes rapturous glances from casual onlookers.

I did not find any flaws in the salon either. The sedan in the GT Line configuration - and I had a car in this configuration for a test drive - can boast dashboard with 4.3-inch display, flat-bottom steering wheel rim and selector, trimmed with soft-touch leather, paddle shifters and multimedia system, which is easy to communicate with on an intuitive level. In a word, the interior is laconic and refined as much as it is typical except for the “Germans”.

Lovers of romance will surely like the panoramic electric sunroof, decorative aluminum inserts, seats with contrasting stitching and interior lighting. The decor will be appreciated and I have no doubt about it.


Music lovers will no doubt delight in the premium Harman / Kardon audio system with ten speakers, subwoofer and external amplifier. However, rather than even music lovers, but regulars of nightclubs - they hammer on the ears so that at least throw a party in, good roomy salon will allow you to invite a considerable number of friends, curtains for rear windows they will take care of the conspiracy, and the heating of all the seats will help out in the event that alcoholic drinks suddenly run out on a cold winter evening.

"Optima" will not disappoint those who consider themselves a real driver, enjoying every minute spent behind the wheel. Of course, it is difficult to expect animal power from a 2.4-liter engine with 188 horsepower, but in tandem with a six-speed automatic transmission gear he still knows how to give pleasure. However, let's not forget: our "Korean" is a sedan designed for an imposing driving style. Naturally, it is not forbidden to try to drive from the heart on an empty track on it, but do not count on some incredible sensations from these exercises. Everything is within the expected.


Someone might notice what to call KIA Optima practical is possible only with a stretch. Well, it's hard to argue. With a ground clearance of 155 mm, you can't even stick to the lungs without heart sinking and eye twitching. The average fuel consumption, which is officially declared at 8.3 l / 100 km, and in fact gets out for 12 liters, will ruin only the aforementioned eater of "doshirak", but will also surprise a wealthy gentleman unpleasantly. In a cramped urban space, problems will surely arise - a "ship" with a length of 4855, a width of 1860 and a height of 1485 mm will not squeeze in everywhere. And how attractive this car is in the eyes of hijackers ... But again, the listed disadvantages are a feature of the class.

Class D sedans have been quite popular lately. An example is Kia Optima 2018 new body, equipment and prices, photo which will be presented in this material. When creating this car, the Sonata chassis was used, which determines some similarity. The new generation is available in 7 equipment variants. Most affordable offer Kia Optima 2018 comes at a price of 1,179,000 rubles... All versions come exclusively with front-wheel drive, but there are only three to choose from gasoline engine... Only one car comes with a manual transmission, but all the rest with a new automatic transmission. Quite high popularity previous generation determines the generated excitement around the new, which we will talk about in more detail later.

Another Korean novelty

Specifications

The dimensions of the new sedan are as follows:

  • Length 4845 mm.
  • Body height 1455 mm.
  • The width of the car was 1830 mm.
  • The wheelbase has been extended to 2795 mm.

Due to the use of high-strength steel, they were able to significantly increase the rigidity of the structure and controllability. The sedan weighs 1448 kg.

Exterior of Kia Optima 2018

Depending on the equipment, the appearance of the car may vary slightly. The exterior is characterized by:

  • Slanting modern optics and a radiator grill.
  • The bumper is made as part of the body, it has two air intakes on the sides and one in the middle.
  • The rear is slightly raised, the headlights are narrow and slanted, two tailpipes stand out exhaust system.

In expensive equipment, the car looks very interesting and sporty.

Interior

The salon is made at a high level for its class:

  • Three-spoke steering wheel (the lower one is represented by double support).
  • High-quality instrument panel in the form of a display.
  • The center console opens into a tunnel between the front seats, where the various control units are located. There is also a compartment for various things and an armrest made in the form of a box.
  • The back row is decorated simply, represented by a three-seater seat with the possibility of their separation by an armrest.

For decoration, fabric, plastic, leather and other materials are used. In more expensive equipment options, leather is also used to trim the steering wheel and automatic transmission selector, seat and some trim elements.

Options and prices Kia Optima 2018 in a new body

Today, most of the drivers pay attention to inexpensive offers that have an acceptable combination of quality and price. New Kia Optima 2018 is available in the following configurations:

1. Classic

Supplied with petrol 2.0 and 150 hp. This power unit comes paired with a manual transmission. In the classic design, the drive wheels are exclusively front. List additional options very large: windshield has a heating function, the rear-view mirrors are electrically driven and heated.

A full-size wheel was placed in the car. Head optics are used for modern technology... Light-alloy wheels, size R16. Outside, an exhaust pipe is installed, which is chrome-plated. All seats in this version are finished in fabric. A set of airbags is responsible for safety, as well as ESC system and ABS, VSM and HAS, ESS. Installed wheel multifunctional, all glasses are powered by electrical accessories. In order to maintain the desired speed on the highway, cruise control was installed with the ability to automatically adjust depending on conditions. The lighting level in the passenger compartment is regulated by a light sensor. V basic configuration no climate control, air conditioning is installed.

The audio system has USB outputs and AUX. Speakers throughout the cabin provide a three-dimensional sound effect.

2. Comfort

Everything comes with the same motor, but it comes with an automatic transmission. The price of this version is 1,299,000 rubles. Additional equipment is represented by a head optics cleaning system, which in turn can be adapted to the road situation. The alloy wheels are R16 and the driver's seat is electrically adjustable with lumbar adjustment. In addition, the position of the steering wheel can be adjusted in two directions.

In addition to installed systems active safety install ESS. The outdated air conditioner has been replaced with dual-zone climate control. Note that the front and rear windows have an electric drive with the function of preventing the clamping of various things or hands.

3. Luxe

This version can be purchased with the previously mentioned engine and the 2.4 liter version, which has 188 hp. The first option costs 1,419,000 rubles, the second 1,499,000 rubles. In addition to the previously mentioned configuration, install alloy wheels R17, the rear lights are manufactured using diode technology.

The dashboard has a quality 4.3-inch display. All seats are upholstered in leather. The driver's seat is equipped with electric drive management and memory. In addition, parking can take place using sensors located in the front and rear. Hand brake electric, there is a function remote control glasses. The audio system has been replaced by a 7-inch display that displays navigation information. When driving reverse a rear-view camera with dynamic markings is activated.

4. Luxe FCC

Also available with two motors, the price is 1,451,000 and 1,532,000 rubles, respectively. The main differences of this version are the special interior design and some decorative elements of the exterior.

5. Prestige

They sell at a price of 1,499,000 and 1,579,000 rubles, respectively. In this version, the sedan has a seat building with a heating function, xenon head optics, can adjust its tilt and angle of rotation depending on the trajectory of movement.

An airbag was placed for the front passenger and driver, which helps to reduce the degree of leg injury in an accident. In addition, the BSD system will monitor the blind spot, when reversing with parking space the RCTA assistant turns on. The engine starts with a button, there is a keyless entry system. Mobile devices can be recharged via a universal wireless charger.

A display was placed on the center console big size, the audio system has 10 speakers throughout the cabin, plus a subwoofer and an external amplifier.

6. GT-line

A version under this name is available exclusively with an 188 horsepower engine and automatic transmission at a price of 1,679,000 rubles. Under such a catchy name, a car is distributed that has a rich equipment: panoramic sunroof, modern adaptive head optics, the interior has various chrome elements.

Now the seats in the front are not only heated, but also ventilated. The salon has decorative lighting various elements. In order to give the car a sporty look, two exhaust pipes are installed. Parking can now take place in automatic mode, for which they installed an intelligent system, as well as a circular view system, consisting of 4 cameras. Taillights blacked out, changed the grille and bumpers, making them more sporty. In order to heavily mark this trim, the front calipers are painted red.

7. GT

Comes with new two-liter engine 245 h.p. Through installation powerful motor and additional options, the cost of this offer increased to 1,829,000 rubles. The designers tried to make this version more sporty, for which they installed R18 wheels. Rear calipers brake system also dyed red. A sports steering wheel was installed, the seats have a corresponding logo. Steering system has also been improved in order to increase the degree of vehicle handling.

Kia Optima 2018 new model, Photo which attracts the eye, has a good basic equipment, in an expensive version resembles a racing car.


* marketing rate is achieved by reducing the maximum resale price for a car in the amount of 40,000 rubles. The value of the annual interest rate in the client's loan agreement - 10.8% for the loan product "Indirect Classic KIA on credit" when buying a new KIA car Optima worth 1,349,900 rubles. at official dealers KIA. The loan is provided by Rusfinance Bank LLC (hereinafter referred to as the Bank) General license of the Central Bank of the Russian Federation No. 1792 dated 13.02.2013. An initial fee RUB 635,000 Loan term 36 months. The loan is secured by the pledge of the purchased car. Required condition- registration of CASCO insurance in an insurance company that meets the Bank's requirements for insurance companies and insurance conditions. The loan is repaid in equal monthly installments (except for the first and last). When repaying a loan through other credit organizations, payment systems, Russian Post, a commission is charged for transferring funds in accordance with the rates of the organizations. In case of late payment of interest and return of the loan, the borrower will be charged a fine of 0.1% of the amount of unpaid interest and part of the outstanding loan debt for each day of delay. It is assumed that it is possible to include life and health insurance premiums of the borrower in the loan amount for the entire duration of the loan agreement. The offer is for informational purposes only, is not a public offer (Article 437 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation), valid from 09/01/2019 to 09/30/2019. The conditions and tariffs can be changed by the Bank unilaterally. For detailed credit conditions, requirements for insurance conditions and requirements for borrowers, check with the managers at the official dealerships of KIA or at

The pricing information on the website is for informational purposes only. Prices shown may differ from actual prices from authorized KIA dealers. To receive detailed information about current prices for KIA products, contact your authorized KIA dealer. The purchase of any KIA product is carried out in accordance with the terms of the individual sales contract.

Kia Optima 2017 is presented at official dealers in Russia in three power modifications:

  • 2.0-liter engine with 150 horsepower,
  • 2.4-liter engine with 187 hp on board,
  • a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that develops 245 hp.

There is another one in Europe diesel engine: 1.7 liter. It is quite punchy, but gets too vocal and rough as you accelerate. The savings and emissions figures are also not particularly impressive - the Skoda Superb 1.6 TDI Greenline is much more effective choice and it will be cheaper to work.

Unlike rival manufacturers, Kia also offers a variant of the PHEV hybrid model, which is also not available in Russia and is capable of traveling up to 50 kilometers on electricity alone.

Russian configurations offer good value for money. Moreover, perhaps the Kia Optima IV is practically the best choice in the D-class among all its competitors.

The manual transmission has gears that are too long, but at least it's pretty accurate. The six-speed automatic is also not the best of its kind, it works optimally ... In general, there is nothing more to say about it.

A distinctive feature of the Optima is a pretty good ride quality, as shown by test drives. It is more resilient than competitors such as Skoda Superb, although significantly loses to the Mazda 6.

Salon Kia Optima IV

All trim levels have a convenient infotainment system.

You sit quite high by cabin standards, and the Optima's seating isn't particularly supportive around the shoulder area. However, all seats receive some form of adjustable lumbar support, which helps prevent lower back pain when long test drives Kia Optima.

You will have several problems with the toolbar. There are big, easy-to-use buttons here, and while the Optima's interior isn't as cool as the Skoda Superb, it looks smart and fits well.

Rear visibility is slightly hampered by the Optima design, but this is not a problem because all versions are equipped with front and rear sensors parking and reversing camera.