KIA OPTIMA (2018)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 4,827 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
88%
Total Tests (2024)
4,827
Avg Mileage
70,738 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,500
Is the 2018 KIA OPTIMA reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 6 points above the national average of 82%.
At 6 years old, 88% of KIA OPTIMAs from 2018 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 4,827 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 70,738 miles.
How does the 2018 KIA OPTIMA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2018 KIA OPTIMA has 70,738 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 44,400 miles for a 6-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
Best year to buy a KIA OPTIMA?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 2012 model has the lowest at 74%. The 2018 sits between the two at 88%.
How much does a 2018 KIA OPTIMA cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
KIA OPTIMA by Year
Checking a specific KIA OPTIMA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2018 KIA OPTIMA
The 2018 KIA OPTIMA is a small family car with a 1598cc diesel engine. 4,827 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2018, the average MOT pass rate is 89%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 70,738 miles at 6 years old, KIA OPTIMA owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2018 KIA OPTIMA Fuel Costs
The 1598cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2018 KIA OPTIMA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,500 (£125/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 88% 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 2018 KIA OPTIMA
At 6 years old, the KIA OPTIMA offers good value with plenty of life remaining. Most manufacturer warranties will have expired, so a pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 91%.
Alternatives to the 2018 KIA OPTIMA
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2017) 91% pass rate (+3%) from 127,682 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2019) 89% pass rate (+1%) from 93,803 tests
- MERCEDES A (2019) 91% pass rate (+3%) from 89,588 tests
- MERCEDES A-CLASS (2017) 88% pass rate (same) from 82,055 tests