Kia Cerato vs Kia Optima comparison

Choosing from two Korean sedans from the same manufacturer, it should be noted that although the Cerato is considered a budget car, the difference in cost is not so great, and in terms of trim levels, they overlap. So, this is a good reason to compare their advantages and disadvantages.

Technical features of the models

As usual, to compare the technical characteristics of the tested models, we try to select copies with the same motors and transmissions. In our case, it succeeded: both sedans have two-liter 150-horsepower units in the engine line.

We look at the differences in other main characteristics:

Exterior

The fourth generation Cerato sedan is characterized by an attractive, moderately calm and harmonious, and at the same time solid appearance.

The car is interesting from all angles, but the front view is worth highlighting: the front of the sedan is very reminiscent of the Stinger: the lighting equipment raised up at a slight angle, a narrow radiator grille, a massive air intake and memorable bulges along the edges of the hood.

In profile, the silhouette looks extremely dynamic, the rear is also original thanks to the protruding pointed trunk lid with running lights under it and reversing lights on a narrow bumper with diffusers.

Optima managed to change its generation only once. But although the sedan is positioned as a representative of the D-class, in terms of its dimensions it is quite suitable for a higher class segment.

The exterior of the car is not satisfactory: it is dynamic and proportional, there are even notes of sportiness in it, which coexist with the presentability inherent in executive cars.

Compared to the Cerato, the Optima looks more strict. The golf-class sedan is clearly aimed at a youth audience.

Salon and trunk

The fact that the Cerato developers focused on a certain age contingent is also proved by the interior of the sedan: it looks very modern and clearly for the sake of European buyers. Techno style is evident in everything from the dashboard and center console to the design of the rear of the cabin. The build quality is above average, as are the finishing materials used. For a C-class sedan, 502 liters of luggage compartment is quite an acceptable figure. Its ergonomics are not bad, and the underground niche accommodates both a set of necessary tools and a full-size spare wheel.

Optima's interior is classic: there are no prominent elements, the panel looks very harmonious and presentable. The ergonomics are excellent, and even outwardly there is a high quality of soft plastic.

The luggage compartment is slightly larger than that of the opponent, but there is no need to complain about 510 liters. But there are complaints about the organization of the internal space, part of which is eaten by the loops, and the tools for fixing the luggage are limited to a few hooks and a pair of straps in the left pocket.

We can safely say that the question of which is better, Cerato or Optima, lies in the area of ​​tastes and preferences. That is, if an assessment is given, it will certainly be subjective.

Engines and transmissions

The range of engines offered to the Russian buyer is small for the fourth generation Kia Cerato: these are two four-cylinder "aspirated" engines with an aluminum BC / cylinder head, in-line arrangement, and a low-noise chain instead of a belt:

• the base is considered a 128-horsepower 1.6-liter engine, installed on all junior configurations;
• the top-end two-liter power unit is capable of delivering 150 horsepower.

Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic, the 128-horsepower engine can also be equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Compared to Cerato, Optima looks much more attractive in this aspect: the line of power units is longer here, and in terms of power it surpasses the opponent by almost twice:

• The 2.0-liter 150-horsepower MPI base engine belongs to the Nu series - not the same unit that is the top-end for the Cerato;
• 2.4-liter 188-horsepower GDI aspirated - a representative of the Theta II family;
• the most powerful engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 245 horsepower. It is installed only on the top-end GT equipment.

The six-speed mechanics relies only on the 150-sion engine, the six-speed automatic transmission is supplied with all engines, and the A6MF2 modification works with the younger ones, and the A6LF2 with a turbo engine, which is distinguished by its ability to work with higher torque from the crankshaft.

Dynamics, fuel consumption

And what about the economy and high-speed capabilities? Let's compare the Kia Optima and Cerato for these indicators.

Kia Cerato with a 1.6-liter engine accelerates to a hundred in 10.6 seconds on a manual transmission, and spends 11.6 seconds on it, paired with an automatic transmission. The maximum speed, respectively, is 200 and 195 km / h, and the average gas mileage is 7.1 / 7.3 liters. for 100 km.

For a two-liter engine, which is aggregated exclusively with an automatic transmission, the indicators are as follows: 9.8 seconds, 203 km / h, 7.4 liters. for 100 km.

Let's see how Optima responds:

• 2.0-liter engine: 9.6 / 10.7 seconds (manual / automatic transmission), 205/202 km / h, 7.7 / 7.8 l / 100 km;
• 2.4-liter engine: 9.1 / 210 / 8.3;
• 245-horsepower turbocharged unit: 7.4 / 240 / 8.5.

As you can see, comparisons are clearly not in favor of Cerato. Optima's top-end engine speeds are generally prohibitive, and gas mileage is relatively low.

Controllability and security

The suspension of the Kia Cerato cannot be called ideal, it copes well with minor defects in the roadway, buildup is also not typical for it. However, larger irregularities will already be felt. At the same time, the smoothness of the ride does not suffer, even if the sedan moves along the dirt road. On the back seat, the comfort level is almost the same as on the front. This is a clear merit of the designers.

The Optima looks worse in this respect, although the ride is perfect here. There are remarks about the energy intensity of the suspension: if the car simply does not notice the average-sized pits, then minor defects and large potholes will be felt. Yes, the rolls at high-speed corners are decent (as well as longitudinal).

But the safety of the Kia Optima is in complete order: 5 stars according to Euro NCAP. And also the honorary title of "The safest car" according to IIHS (USA).

Options and prices

The basic configuration of the Cerato costs 1.105 million rubles - this is no longer a state employee. The equipment here is surprisingly good: six PB, an air conditioner, a full package of power windows, electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors, a radio with six speakers.

The top modification GT Line + costs 1.439 million and boasts a dual-zone QC, leather interior, "multimedia" with an eight-inch touchscreen display, parking sensors front and rear, LED head optics, cruise control and a good set of assistants and security systems.

The basic Optima costs 1.335 million rubles and includes the same 6 pillows, air conditioning, 4 power windows - in a word, almost the same set. We can only mention the heated wiper nozzles.

The GT version with a turbo engine costs 2.044 million rubles and, in terms of equipment, practically corresponds to the top Optima.

Which model to give preference

The choice is not difficult. If you are looking for comfort, then there is parity here, so there is no point in overpaying. For those who love drive, the Optima will definitely be enjoyed better.And in general, when answering the question which is better, Optima or Cerato, it is necessary to take into account other factors, including the visual appeal and ergonomics of the interior.