Used Kia Optima for sale near Sunderland

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.2%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 50
Average Price: Around £8,600

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 is well-made with solid materials throughout, featuring a touchscreen infotainment system with satnav on all models and generous standard equipment across the range. Powered by diesel engines (1.7-litre and later 1.6-litre CRDI), a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol option, and a plug-in hybrid variant, the Optima caters to various driving needs and preferences.

Whilst the Optima is not the sharpest car to drive, with some body roll in corners and less responsive steering, it excels in comfort and practicality. The diesel engines deliver impressive fuel economy, with the 1.6-litre achieving around 50-58mpg in real-world driving, whilst the plug-in hybrid offers excellent town-driving efficiency. All models feature timing chains rather than belts, reducing long-term maintenance costs. Kia's excellent reliability reputation and factory warranty coverage on many used examples make this a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable alternative to SUVs.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious saloon or estate, those wanting excellent value for money, and drivers interested in plug-in hybrid technology for town driving.

Not ideal for: Enthusiasts prioritising sharp handling and engaging driving dynamics, or buyers seeking premium badge appeal.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Optima if: You're seeking a spacious, well-equipped saloon or estate offering exceptional value for money, or interested in plug-in hybrid technology for efficient town driving.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise sharp handling and engaging driving dynamics, or require premium badge appeal and the finest interior quality.

Competitive Position: The Kia Optima (2016-2020) represents outstanding value in the saloon and estate market, particularly as SUV prices continue to rise. Whilst it may not match the Volkswagen Passat or Ford Mondeo for driving engagement or the premium feel of a VW, its spacious interior, comprehensive equipment levels, excellent reliability reputation, and significantly lower purchase price make it a highly sensible choice. The plug-in hybrid variant offers an additional advantage for environmentally conscious buyers seeking low running costs. For budget-conscious buyers unwilling to compromise on space and practicality, the Optima is a compelling proposition.

Read our full Kia Optima Review

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