Kia Optima 1.7 CRDi 7-Speed DCT ISG4
What is it?
Meet Kia’s new shape, fully revised Optima, a competitive new 2016 player on the block for UK business drivers.
Front to back, this latest gen Optima stands as an extensive makeover of the departing model which struggled to make much headway in a business class dominated by the might of the Ford Mondeo, VW Passat and Vauxhall Insignia.
Now, Kia’s stepping up with an Optima that’s sleeker, roomier and boasts higher tech levels. Out first is this family-sized executive saloon that launches in the UK with 1.7-litre CRDi turbodiesel power, matched to either 6-speed manual transmission or (new) 7-speed (7DCT) dual clutch auto box.
Sportier/greener versions (including a cool looking Optima estate) are to follow as part of a Kia plan to move upscale and raise image and sales across Europe.
Here and now, this all new Optima four-door states its case with extra power and improved economy (plus lower C02 emissions) versus the outgoing car, coupled with lower benefit-in-kind taxation for hard pressed business drivers. More style, higher spec. Result, you could say.
There’s a jump in price, almost inevitably, to go with all that, but in the big picture, Kia’s gone a long way to boost the Optima up the rankings. And to drive? We had a first taste of this new 2016 Optima on the road in Germany.
What’s hot?
- Sharper looks for this new gen Optima, highlighted by the new grille and front-end treatment plus artful redesign of the boot and rear pillar treatment.
- The new Optima shell is 50% stiffer, Kia says. Kia has also put extensive work in to cut noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels, key points in making the car more refined on the road.
- Big upgrade with cabin design and quality, including a new dashboard whose lower control zone really looks on a par with BMW…
- Increased head, knee, shoulder space in the cabin and bigger boot.
- Initially three trim levels – badged 2, 3 and 4. Even the entry grade 2 gives you 7-inch sat nav, reversing camera, dual air con.
- Grade 3 adds 18-inch alloys, larger 8 inch sat nav screen, heated seats and more. Grade 4 adds a wireless mobile phone charger, panoramic sun roof, Smart Park Assist etc, amid a long kit list.
- A discreet bump in power (to 139 bhp) and torque (340 Nm) for Kia’s 1.7-litre four cylinder turbodiesel, broadens all round performance.
- Yet combined economy improves dramatically (to 64.2-67.3 mpg) and there’s a significant cut in C02 emissions (110-116 g/km) too.
- As such, benefit in kind (BIK) and fuel benefit taxation for company car drivers is less onerous against the outgoing Optima, especially comparing the old 6-speed auto with more efficient new 7-speed DCT dual clutch box.
- With taut new body and revised steering and suspension, the new Optima proves pleasant and composed on the road. It comes over as a comfortable, refined, well balanced car, with good ride comfort.
- Kia’s famous 7-year warranty is not be sneezed at…
