KIA OPTIMA (2016)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 2,187 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,047
£171/month
MOT Pass Rate
87%
Good
Road Tax
£315
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 18-32
1999cc Hybrid
Solid Option
87% pass rate, £2047/year to run. 5 points above average.
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Annual Running Costs
~36 mpg
Based on 1999cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 10 years old, 87% of KIA OPTIMAs from 2016 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 2,187 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 78,458 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
78,458
Average miles
74,000
Expected for age
The average 2016 KIA OPTIMA has 78,458 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 74,000 miles for a 10-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 2012 model has the lowest at 74%. The 2016 sits between the two at 87%.
KIA OPTIMA by Year
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2016 KIA OPTIMA
The 2016 KIA OPTIMA is a family car with a 1999cc hybrid engine. 2,187 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2016, the average MOT pass rate is 85%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 78,458 miles at 10 years old, KIA OPTIMA owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2016 KIA OPTIMA Fuel Costs
The 1999cc hybrid engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current hybrid prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). As a hybrid, real-world fuel costs will vary significantly depending on how much electric-only driving you do.
What does it cost to own a 2016 KIA OPTIMA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,047 (£171/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £315 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 87% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
KIA OPTIMA Reliability Trend
Newer KIA OPTIMAs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2016 KIA OPTIMA
At 10 years old, the KIA OPTIMA is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 91%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2016 KIA OPTIMA's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Hybrid Battery Health
Watch outAfter 10 years, hybrid battery capacity may have reduced. A full replacement costs £2,000-£4,000, though reconditioning is cheaper at £500-£1,500.
Inverter and Power Electronics
Medium riskThe inverter converts DC to AC for the electric motor. Failures are expensive (£1,500+) but relatively rare. Listen for unusual buzzing sounds.
Regenerative Braking
Medium riskBrake discs can corrode from reduced use (the electric motor handles most braking). Surface rust is normal but deep pitting needs attention.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2016 KIA OPTIMA stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KIA OPTIMA(2016) | 87% | £1327 | £315 | Grp 18-32 | £2047 |
| MERCEDES C(2017) | 89% | £1327 | £190 | Grp 18-32 | £1922-£125 |
| TOYOTA C-HR(2018) | 90% | £1327 | £190 | Grp 18-32 | £1772-£275 |
| TOYOTA AURIS(2015) | 87% | £1327 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1867-£180 |
| MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER(2015) | 83% | £1327 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1867-£180 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
Related Kia Models
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MERCEDES C
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TOYOTA C-HR
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TOYOTA AURIS
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