How to avoid a mistake in your choice: KIA Optima or K5?
Anyone interested in KIA cars has heard of the K5 at least once. The most common questions about this car are: what it’s like, what features it has, and what its pros and cons are. People also often ask: why isn’t the KIA Optima included in the current list of available models, and how can you choose the best version to buy? We’ll try to answer these questions in this article.
It’s also important to note that the KIA Optima was sold in the European and American markets, while in Korea and China, the same car was marketed as the KIA K5. Recently, however, all cars from Korea have been given a new name to launch the fifth generation of the “Optima” on a global scale.
Until the new K5 arrives at dealerships, you can buy previous-generation models on the used car market. They have been in production since 2015. The car is available in three versions:
- Korean (KIA K5);
- KIA Optima—for the U.S. market;
- Optima—for sale in European countries.
Many people also wonder: how do these variants differ from one another?
A Sports Car from the U.S.: How It Differs from the European Version
The “KIA Optima” for American consumers boasts all the features that enthusiasts of sporty styling and bold design elements have always appreciated.
One of the differences from its European counterpart is the dual exhaust pipes, and the rear diffuser is larger. The uniquely styled fog lights on the front bumper also catch the eye. The interior fully matches the chosen style; the manufacturer has opted for a sport steering wheel with a slightly cut-off lower section. In contrast, the European version favors a classic design with a round steering wheel and a minimalist interior.
The main highlight is found in the interior. The “American” version features an innovative electric power steering system mounted on the steering rack. The “European” version, on the other hand, comes in a traditional configuration—with a steering system mounted on the steering shaft.
In addition, the availability of engines differs, especially given the KIA Optima’s pricing strategy. In the U.S. market, high-powered engines are available, whereas the European market is somewhat limited. Here, a 1.7-liter turbocharged diesel engine with 141 l. s. is available. You can also choose a 2.0-liter gasoline version with 168 l. s. American models, on the other hand, come with:
- a naturally aspirated GDI gasoline engine (2.4 L, 188 l. s.);
- a turbocharged T-GDI gasoline engine (1.6 L, 180 l. s.);
- a turbocharged T-GDI gasoline engine (2 L, 250 l.s.).
What You Need to Know About the KIA K5 Sold in Korea
The Korean automaker has incorporated several key distinguishing features for its home market. Specifically for the KIA K5, various proprietary technologies were utilized.
Their engines are virtually identical to those in the American versions, which gives them an advantage over their European competitors. Cars equipped with factory-installed LPG systems are produced exclusively for the Korean market.
The KIA K5 features an option literally called “Hello, Owner.” When the owner approaches the vehicle, the interior lights turn on automatically, the side mirrors extend to the correct position, and the door handle lights illuminate. When the car is armed with the alarm system, the system automatically folds the side mirrors back against the body.
In addition, the version for the Korean market comes equipped with a JBL audio system, which has successfully replaced Infinity. However, only professionals and enthusiasts who follow technology trends and have a good ear for music can hear the differences in sound quality.
Conclusion
To summarize the information about this car, we can conclude that the European-built version is ideal for those who appreciate classic styling, understated elegance, and fuel efficiency. The U.S. versions are the preferred choice for true lovers of speed, power, and aggressive design—traits more commonly associated with sports cars. The Korean version of the Kia K5 attracts buyers with its extensive feature set. If you need a wide variety of options, this model will definitely satisfy you. Moreover, the breadth of choice allows you to purchase not only gasoline-powered cars but also natural gas models with the same modern features, power, and appealing capabilities for the owner.
