Kia Optima (2012 - 2015) 1.7 CRDi 2 Luxe 4d (2012/61) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Well, I'm not a brand snob clearly. Perhaps slightly unfashionable? I suppose it says that I wanted quality, reliability and gadgets but I can't afford/don't want to afford 30+ grand for the equivalent BMW or Merc.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Oddly enough, it gets plenty of looks and people are surprised to find out that it's a Kia. Everyone seems to like it and they are generally very impressed when they sit in it.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Definitely. I can't really see a decent excuse not to buy another one.

What are you likely to buy next?

I would definitely have another Kia. This is the second one I've had and they have both been great. I would also consider one of the other perceived cheap/unfashionable makes like Skoda.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£13,499

When did you buy the car?

December 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

Apparently, this car was the cheapest in the country. Didn't get anything thrown in for free but the price was very good (far less than the list price) so I feel like I got a decent deal.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I had the intention of buying another Kia Proceed to replace my old one, test drove this and the rest is history.

What was the dealer like?

Young chap, very pleasant, patient and helpful. I was pleased that he knew how to use all the gadgets and loads about the car.

What's it like to drive?

It's a delight to be honest. Yes, it doesn't ride perfectly by any stretch of the imagination (I've got the larger wheels) but it is as smooth as silk on the motorway. The power delivery is smooth and consistent without being really punchy but it has plenty of grunt. Remarkably quiet once it's warm.

What's it like to park?

I was a little worried at first as it was a lot bigger than I'm used to but it is so easy to park it's almost a joke. The car is 15ft long but I swear I can get it in to a space 15ft 3in long. The reversing camera and parking sensors make this a piece of cake.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing has gone wrong yet but I've only had the car for 4 months. Part of the reason for buying a Kia is the 7 year warranty which gives fantastic peace of mind for me.

What's most practical about your car?

Good fuel economy (although nowhere near the claimed 57mpg). Cavernous boot with really easy fold down seats. Despite being a very big car, as easy as peas to park.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Gadgets aplenty. Heated seats are great ( I get a bad back and they seem to soothe it), reversing camera in the rear view mirror is fantastic. Voice recognition stuff is good too.