Undefined Kia Optima 1.7 CRDi Review: Stylish Efficient Sedan

The Kia Optima 1.7 CRDi stands out with its eye-catching design and practical features, making it a strong option for drivers prioritizing aesthetics alongside everyday efficiency. Powered by a 1.7-liter diesel engine, this midsize sedan delivers respectable performance and low running costs, appealing particularly to fleet buyers and long-distance commuters.

Design and Exterior Appeal

From the outset, the Optima impresses with its bold, aggressive styling that sets it apart from more conservative rivals. Its longer, lower, and wider body gives it a sporty profile, enhanced by a prominent front grille and sharp LED headlights. This menacing front end combined with sleek lines creates an elegant yet dynamic presence on the road, often drawing comparisons to premium models despite its accessible price point.

The saloon version measures competitively, offering a footprint similar to established players like the Volkswagen Passat, but with a more distinctive flair. Available in trims like 2 Tech and higher specs, it rides on alloys up to 18 inches, which add to its poised stance without compromising too much on practicality. For those needing extra cargo space, the Sportswagon variant extends the appeal with its elegant estate lines, maintaining the saloon’s striking character while boosting versatility.

Powertrain and Performance

At the heart of the Optima is Kia’s 1.7-liter CRDi diesel engine, producing around 134-141 horsepower and substantial torque of up to 340Nm. Paired with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, it achieves a top speed of 125mph and accelerates from 0-62mph in approximately 10.2 seconds. An optional automatic transmission is available, offering smooth shifts but potentially at the cost of slightly higher consumption and a £1,400 premium.

The engine includes stop-start technology, contributing to official combined fuel economy of 57.6mpg and CO2 emissions of 128g/km, placing it in a favorable tax band for company car users. Real-world tests show figures around 47.5mpg over mixed driving, which remains competitive though not class-leading. On acceleration, it relies on turbo boost for overtakes, feeling adequate but not exhilarating, with some noise under hard load.

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

Efficiency is a highlight, with urban figures at 49.6mpg, extra-urban up to 64.2mpg, and a 70-liter tank enabling long ranges ideal for motorway hauls. The Sportswagon manual variant edges lower emissions to 113g/km, enhancing its appeal for benefit-in-kind (BIK) calculations at 22%. Priced from around £21,695, it undercuts rivals like the Vauxhall Insignia and Ford Mondeo while backed by Kia’s industry-leading seven-year/100,000-mile warranty.

• Pros: Low CO2 (113-128g/km), strong real-world mpg, extensive warranty.
• Cons: Automatic adds cost and minor efficiency hit.

Insurance falls into group 17, keeping ownership affordable for private buyers too.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

On motorways, the Optima cruises comfortably, with a supple ride absorbing imperfections, though larger wheels can introduce occasional vibrations. The diesel remains hushed at steady speeds, but higher revs are needed for brisk progress, potentially introducing noise. Steering is light and quick, prioritizing ease over feedback, which aids parking but reduces precision at high speeds.

Handling is composed with minimal body roll, but front-wheel grip fades early in corners, making it more cruiser than corner-carver. The Sportswagon mirrors this, offering good ride quality and weighted steering, though lacking ultimate feel. Dual-clutch autos in later models provide slick shifts, outperforming traditional units in rivals.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

Inside, the Optima impresses with high-quality materials and a spacious cabin. Front seats are supportive for long trips, while rear legroom and headroom rival class leaders. Boot space in the saloon is generous, expanding further in the Sportswagon for family needs. Tech includes touchscreen infotainment, navigation, and safety aids like lane assist, standard across trims.

Build quality feels premium, with intuitive controls and a quiet ambiance at cruise, though some road noise intrudes on coarser surfaces.

Safety and Technology Features

Kia equips the Optima with a suite of driver aids, including autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control on higher trims. Euro NCAP ratings (from similar models) underscore its solid safety credentials. Intelligent features like stop-start and eco modes optimize efficiency without complexity.

Market Position and Rivals

The Optima challenges the Passat, Mondeo, and Insignia with superior styling and warranty at lower entry prices. While not the most dynamic or frugal, its balanced package makes it a genuine contender.

Pros and Cons Summary

• Striking design that turns heads.
• Excellent warranty and value.
• Spacious, well-equipped interior.
• Competitive efficiency for fleets.
• Light steering lacks feedback.
• Engine noisy under load.
• Not the sharpest handler.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Kia Optima 1.7 CRDi reliable?

Yes, backed by a seven-year warranty, it offers peace of mind superior to most rivals.

How does fuel economy compare in real life?

Expect 45-50mpg mixed, below official 57.6mpg but solid for the class.

What’s the boot space like?

Saloon offers ample room; Sportswagon adds estate practicality.

Is it suitable for motorway driving?

Comfortable and stable, ideal for high-mileage users.

Any automatic option?

Yes, six- or seven-speed, smooth but costlier.