KIA OPTIMA (2019)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 3,111 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£1,505
£125/month
MOT Pass Rate
89%
Good
Road Tax
£195
Flat rate/year
Insurance
Grp 12-25
1598cc Diesel
Solid Option
89% pass rate, £1505/year to run. 7 points above average.
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Annual Running Costs
~55 mpg
Flat rate (post-2017)
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 7 points above the national average of 82%.
At 7 years old, 89% of KIA OPTIMAs from 2019 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 3,111 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 60,554 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
60,554
Average miles
51,800
Expected for age
The average 2019 KIA OPTIMA has 60,554 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 51,800 miles for a 7-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 2019 sits between the two at 89%.
KIA OPTIMA by Year
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2019 KIA OPTIMA
The 2019 KIA OPTIMA is a small family car with a 1598cc diesel engine. 3,111 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2019, the average MOT pass rate is 90%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 60,554 miles at 7 years old, KIA OPTIMA owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2019 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 2019 KIA OPTIMA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,505 (£125/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £195 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 89% 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 2019 KIA OPTIMA
At 7 years old, this is a solid used buy if you find one with good service history. Depreciation has levelled off, so you won't lose much more value. Focus on condition over mileage. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 91%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2019 KIA OPTIMA's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Watch outShort journeys clog the DPF. Replacement costs £1,000-£2,500. Check the DPF warning light and ask about driving patterns.
Turbo Wear
Medium riskDiesel turbos work harder and wear faster. Listen for whining noises and check for oil leaks around the turbo housing.
AdBlue System
Medium riskPost-2015 diesels use AdBlue for emissions. Sensor failures and tank heater issues are common. Budget £200-£500 for repairs.
EGR Valve
Watch outExhaust Gas Recirculation valves clog with carbon deposits, causing rough running and poor economy. Cleaning costs £150-£300, replacement £300-£600.
Suspension Wear
Medium riskShock absorbers, springs, and anti-roll bar links typically need attention around this age. Listen for clunks over bumps and check for uneven tyre wear.
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 2019 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(2019) | 89% | £905 | £195 | Grp 12-25 | £1505 |
| VOLKSWAGEN GOLF(2017) | 91% | £905 | £190 | Grp 12-25 | £1350-£155 |
| FORD FOCUS(2019) | 89% | £905 | £190 | Grp 12-25 | £1500-£5 |
| MERCEDES A(2019) | 91% | £905 | £190 | Grp 12-25 | £1350-£155 |
| MERCEDES A-CLASS(2017) | 88% | £905 | £190 | Grp 12-25 | £1500-£5 |
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
Explore other Kia cars or similar models in the same category.
KIA SPORTAGE
2016 · 1700cc Diesel
KIA PICANTO
2018 · 998cc Petrol
KIA CEED
2012 · 1591cc Diesel
VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
2017 · 1598cc Diesel
FORD FOCUS
2019 · 1499cc Diesel
MERCEDES A
2019 · 1461cc Diesel
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