CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 50.8%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 60
Average Price: Around £8,100

Kia Optima (2016-2020) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Good value as a used buy	Dull to drive
Roomy interior	PHEV loses some boot space
Good EV range in plug-in hybrid	Earlier diesels could be more refined

Quick Summary

The Kia Optima (2016-2020) is a practical and well-equipped saloon that offers exceptional value in a market increasingly dominated by SUVs. Available as both a four-door saloon and five-door Sportswagon estate, it provides spacious interiors with 505 litres of boot space in the saloon and 552 litres in the estate. The car features a touchscreen infotainment system with satnav on all models, dual-zone air-conditioning, and comprehensive safety equipment on higher trims. Build quality is solid with conservative but well-made interiors that comfortably match established rivals like the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia.

Whilst the Optima is not the sharpest car to drive, with soft suspension and unresponsive steering, it excels in comfort and practicality. Engine options include a 1.7-litre diesel (later replaced by a more refined 1.6-litre version), a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol in the GT model, and a plug-in hybrid offering excellent EV range for town driving. All models feature timing chains rather than belts, reducing long-term maintenance costs. With Kia's excellent reliability reputation and many used examples still covered by factory warranty, the Optima represents outstanding value for those seeking a spacious, comfortable alternative to SUVs.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious saloon or estate, those prioritising comfort and practicality over driving dynamics, and drivers interested in plug-in hybrid technology for urban commuting.

Not ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking sharp handling or engaging driving characteristics, or buyers requiring the premium badge appeal of German rivals.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Optima if: You're seeking a spacious, comfortable saloon or estate with excellent value, prioritising practicality and equipment over driving dynamics, or interested in plug-in hybrid technology for urban driving.

Consider alternatives if: You desire sharp handling and engaging driving characteristics, or require premium German badge appeal and prestige.

Competitive Position: The Kia Optima (2016-2020) stands out as an exceptional value proposition in the saloon and estate market. Whilst rivals like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat offer slightly sharper handling and more premium appeal, the Optima delivers superior user satisfaction ratings and significantly better value for money. Its spacious interior, comprehensive equipment levels, and excellent reliability reputation make it a highly sensible choice for practical buyers. The availability of plug-in hybrid technology further distinguishes it from competitors, offering an eco-friendly option without the premium pricing of German alternatives.

Read our full Kia Optima Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.