THE RITCHIE REVIEW - Kia Optima Review. Pay attention Germany.

[@RogerBaileyOnCars]

Extensive research, insightful opinion, clever editing, kept it real, and even managing to work with animals - master class once again.

[@carsuncovereduk]

oh now that is getting pinned :)

[@Raj-nh3fc]

Your review of Kia Optima nailed it on the head. I and my son have a habit of trying out new cars in the show room from time to time, just getting prepared to retire our older 3 series BMW in near future. Kia optima is quiet, has a very good suspension that follows you around the curves and has a good steering that is exact (the last two qualities are not quite BMW 3 series but good enough). The 1,7 liter diesel with DCT automatic (GT line) was smooth and responsive. Little disappointed to hear that fuel economy in your test was not exactly what you expected. With all the other comfort and safety features it offers, it has to be the best deal. I am sure the Kia is as if not more reliable than the German cars. So what is stopping it from being a success. It has to be the badge and snobbery! Iam also intrigued that most of the motor journalists from UK are giving it a bad review. Have I missed some thing? Drove a VW Passat directly after Kia and what a disappointment that was. Lot of noise, poor road handling, turbo jump etc in the VW. Kia was a far more polished car.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Agree, I also did a Passat and found it a bit dissapointing - very harsh and gruff feeling.

[@MalamIbnMalam]

The Kia Optima 2.0T that puts out 245hp and 260 lbs.ft of torque is a very potent engine. Add that with a specialised Optima Suspension and it is definitely BMW, Audi, Mercedes 330i, A4 and C300 level. In the United States, that car is called the Optima SX. In Australia and other parts of the world, it is called the Optima GT.

[@hamag1973]

True that!

[@Victortrotska]

Loved the quality of the video and its content! I tried for a few months the Optima I was really surprised too by how good it is given the price. It feels more premium than it is and I am bored by the German cars all looking alike and driving alike.

[@marindespotovski699]

It's incredible how little subscribers you have!? I'm watching and reading tons of car reviews and I subscribed after the first video i saw from you. So, fingers crossed ;)

[@carsuncovereduk]

Hello mate, thanks very much go those, I value your time. Maybe take a look at PewdeePie's KZbin rant... ?

[@Memories-_]

2:51 SOOOOOOOOO TRUE

[@dragosgalben60]

yep... and their shit is gold.. even something as shitty as DSG, which some unlucky owners had to change twice in a Golf VI 1.2 TSI

[@themagicrat8803]

I stumbled upon your channel late, now subscribed. I switched to Kia seven years ago, Optima 3 (saloon) and currently Sorento KX-4. My wife drives a Soul Maxx, previously Soul Quantum. My children's first cars were a Picanto and Rio. Factor in extending your (other car consideration) warranty by four years and the price gap becomes stark. Also the Kia formula for equipment and specification is simple as there are no frustrating add-on 'packs'. No more German metal for me.

[@mikekeith2474]

Collected my new one same as your test car this week and love it. The car keeps up with anything on the road at legal speeds, also although not had it a week yet but already showing more than the 37 mpg you quoted and this will improve over time as engine beds in. Great car. Never gave Germany a thought. Great viedo.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Mike Keith safe happy motorin mate thanks for looking

[@geezerintotech]

This is a WICKED review...the video quality, audio, everything is just top notch. The way you presented this was like I was actually watching something produced on a proper TV studio...how did you do it?! And I agree with the content in the review too. Blatantly unbiased, down to earth. Subscribed!

[@carsuncovereduk]

Lovely words mate :) lots can be done these days ud be surprised what tv is done in someones lounge

[@mohsincfh]

felt like watching a topgear video. really good work!

[@simonthomas5367]

Just ordered the PHEV version..... Will let you know.

[@gabrielcaramet3238]

How is it?

[@simonthomas5367]

@@gabrielcaramet3238 Very good! If you recharge it regularly, you can easily do 65-75km on pure electric. During the week I can go to work and back and not use any petrol. I've just filled up the tank. Last fill-up was 2.5 months ago. Done 19000 km and zero problems. Drove from the south of France to Manchester and back. Supremely confy and economical. Got over 1000km from a full charge and full tank. Very smooth and relaxing to drive. Hybrid technology works seemlessly. You don't even know when you're using the petrol engine sometimes! Just had it's first service. Kia customer service excellent.

[@gabrielcaramet3238]

@@simonthomas5367 that's good news my mom has a 2018 optima sw 1.7 crdi first edition whith 136 hp it's a almost top of the line car she hase had of for 2 weeks now she loved it to pieces

[@Dan-hd3bh]

Best car reviews on you tube. Bar none. And I watch pretty much all of them. Thanks again for the great reviews. Only 1,915 subs is a crying shame but if you keep up the good work I have no doubt they will sky rocket.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Wow dude. I will save that one for when the freaks come out : )

[@Dan-hd3bh]

Who says they haven't already ; )

[@timmyotoole1]

Nice review, as usual. What about Avensis Estate? Overlooked intentionally?

[@carsuncovereduk]

Time issues. :)

[@wolfpack9iloilo]

I wish we have the Estate/Wagon version here in Canada but people here especially North America doesn't like it. Great review as always btw. Merry Christmas and hope to see more car reviews from you.

[@carsuncovereduk]

You don't have a Canada estate.... what is going on here.....?

[@1969cmp]

Probably the same SUV virus we have in Australia. Having said that, Honda is very popular in North America but not in Australia.

[@subdolphinbravo5759]

New subscriber, great review. I was considering this as a first taxi for myself, ticks every box yet the around town MPG has just killed that. :(

[@brianturriff3126]

Looks a great car, just placed an order for a 2018 one identical to this. Hopefully as good as it looks. Looking forward to getting it.

[@richardhunt1384]

Am currently looking at getting one these ina 3 spec, loved how it drove as did my Wife. I currently drive a 2008 Avensis Tourer (so will sticking with a Tourer) and that as my fellow mechanic work mates call it a Mini Cab so obviously I'm bothered by a true "Driver's Car" and these in my humble opinion look the bizz bozz. Glad you (kinda) liked it as I'd hate to have a made a bad (possible (????)) choice. Am wrong??? 🤔🤔🤔

[@SoumalyaGhoshAVM]

You sir are a great reviewer. I like your videos, and yes I drive a Kia Optima 2013 myself. Thinking about the Stinger to trade in mine later this year. What do you say about the Stinger?

[@1969cmp]

A pity we don't get the sportswagon in Australia

[@paulroche95]

What's the real mpg I do mainly motorway miles few hundred at a time in one go

[@SevernCityBoy]

Excellent review. Concise and informative, with the tone light enough to be entertaining but not distracting. Some reviewers seem to want to be comedians first and foremost. And that car seems brilliant. Great point about the value for money compared to some other makes.

[@carsuncovereduk]

It is really good mate yeah. I'd like one.

[@ollekarlsson663]

You are a natural! 100.000 subs coming up within 2 years. Keep it up! 🙏🏻

[@carsuncovereduk]

thanks bro

[@Relentless0neFPS]

I'm glad I found this channel. Your videos are superb. You seem to have a truly talented crew and looking forward to more of your videos. ps. off topic, who makes those glasses you're wearing? I'm looking for some and think those have some nice metal work on them.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Glasses are Oga Eyewear - Scandinavian, those ones are wood sides but have a look at oga-eyewear.com/

[@carsuncovereduk]

Oh and thanks for nice words.

[@timothywoodgte]

Now, let's just be clear- I am an imbecile. However, as an imbecile who subscribes in paper to EVO and Octane and to numerous online channels, with a fairly extensive ownership history- blah blah- when an HR video pops up it takes precedent (if that's the right word) Bravo HR, bravo

[@carsuncovereduk]

Well, I am not going to NOT pin that now am I.

[@timothywoodgte]

HR in a Car Now hurry up and make some more free material for which people will only largely give you grief for! Haha cheers, and thanks for your work. ''Tis most excellent.

[@vitordelvalle8573]

Timothy Woodgate 0

[@davidneil4055]

Top review. I’m now a follower.

[@hbguitar]

Agree with you on a lot - especially the power to surprise. I bought a 2018 ex demo “2” version and seriously impressed. Far more reliable than its XF SPORTBRAKE predecessor- more power is always welcome but to be honest it does what I need it to very well

[@joehesketh9370]

The best review I've seen for this vehicle. Subscribed.

[@carsuncovereduk]

fankoo

[@kcranny9375]

The thing about KZbin on my TV, you cant like the videos you watch or i haven't figured it out yet. So i have to go to the PC or tablet to like your videos. Anyways keep the great reviews coming HR.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Oh I have been upgraded now to TV sit down slippers and cognac mode now, oh I can make long form now - you watch.

[@francesrae276]

Just bought a Kia Optima GT-Line S on a 67 plate, replacing a BMW 5 Series 520d M Sports Auto on a 12 plate. Have driven Mercedes and BMW for decades. The Kia is a revelation, as a complete package it outclasses the German manufacturers who cannot come anywhere near it for value for money. Looking forward to a top of the line driving experience at minimum cost all underwritten with a unmatched 7 year warranty. It just does not get any better.

[@carsuncovereduk]

I have to agree, I am doing the Stinger soon on my other channel - kzbin.info/door/T5A2sV_sB5diMEbdTrLTKw

[@Frank-1978]

you may have thought I was taking the piss the last time but seriously I don't get the low view count. I'm sad enough to say I watch a fair few videos of the ilk and your as good as I've seen. merry Xmas

[@carsuncovereduk]

I watch as many as you Frank. What is wrong with us all :)

[@mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm420]

Stumbled across your review. It's a good one and I like the cut of your cloth. I've subscribed.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Ha ha I like your cloth also.

[@Toshj99]

It kisses me off how little subscribers you have, especially with your beautiful filmography

[@carsuncovereduk]

Same Paypal address as last time mate?

[@hypojames]

Superb review

[@MrAlvinQui]

Can we get this sportwagon in the US.

[@The_Mup]

Great review! How do you yourself think the new Optima compares with the older one? I test drove a 2014 top spec Optima 3 (Manual) and i thought it was great compared to the other cars i drove (Mondeo, Insignia). I was thinking about getting the 2014 model because i think it looks a lot better inside and out compared to the newer one. A lot of the reviews of the older Optima seem to be of the pre-facelift 2012-2013 model, which is actually very different and isn't as nice as the 2014 facelift i think.

[@carsuncovereduk]

It is a marked improvement, its all about the cash tho.

[@eddiej3455]

Where can i get the wagon in USA?

[@GlenWFord-ps8ts]

I like this review and cats. And the car.

[@SevernCityBoy]

Glen W. Ford there was pretty good footage of a sheep, too. Fine example of a vibrant inclusive workspace environment.

[@carsuncovereduk]

hahahahahahahahahhahahahahah

[@goj1698]

unbelievable car . i like it

[@zexxonije]

Thanks for the review, pretty good. I'm looking at several different options and Optima got my attention thanks to the generous warranty. However, I've noticed that the price for regular maintenance for these cars is 3 times more expensive than competitors. So it turns out Kia is also playing dirty, because if you want to keep your warranty you have to pay very high prices for regular oil changes and filters (for 7 years!) That said, if the car is trouble free, it's probably worth it

[@carsuncovereduk]

Example?? x

[@welshjim22]

Could do with a little.more detail around MPG, because 37mpg in that car is low.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Maybe I was stop starting that week but that was my week including filming.

[@chryschrysostomou5392]

I know I'm going to sound materialistic, or snobbish, but how does it feel, buttons and furnishings? The feel is quite important when I look over cars, and interior architecture. I like everything logically and ergonomically positioned. Not sat or even seen the Optima in the flesh, I cannot pass judgement.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Ok glad you asked well: If you drive one the mark is higher than if you simply sit in one. I don't like some of the fonts. I do like sitting for hours in the seat. Very comfy. Position itself 10/10 Switches, feel, plastics, Not luxury. But VERY NOT SHIT! Hows that?

[@chryschrysostomou5392]

Thanks for that! How would you compare it to the DS5 interior? My current favourite pilot position!

[@carsuncovereduk]

Hmmm - about the same I think.

[@scoopermg8226]

I had one on test for several days. Very impressed with overall quality, it's not an issue at all.

[@blower1]

Great review, and I think you're right - we have become car snobs!.....Merry Christmas!, may santa bring you a boat load of subscriptions :)

[@carsuncovereduk]

And to you blowback

[@rajbadwal85]

I love the new Kia's.. so much so I've got a Sportage 4 on order which is due early 2017. obviously I'm gonna wait till March to get that shiney new 17 plate 😁

[@carsuncovereduk]

Someone's doing well. Heard they are good, not done one yet... what is good about them?

[@rajbadwal85]

HR in a Car Erm it's just a really nice car with lots of kit as standard and very comfortable.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Ah ok - maybe I look for something myself - just sold my 535d from the video - rubbish car

[@rajbadwal85]

HR in a Car I looked at a 525D M Sport but you don't get much kit with it. The Sportage has the panoramic sunroof which is amazing and my 1 year old loves it.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Makes a massive difference, I will take a look - was Looking at the new G7 series, but its so loud on the road - I may try something new. No changes for 17 I assume?

[@seanpaterson1602]

They don't sell the wagon in North America....

[@ajj4483]

Great insight Howard, I laughed out loud about the German top marque companies putting us under a spell, very true. However, I dunno would I rate this over a BMW 3 series M Sport (not even close in my world)..even for the 7 year warranty.

[@carsuncovereduk]

AJ J reeeaaaally

[@yushanyasindu9762]

You absolutely right all of the KIA line up is amazingly surprise I really love them a lot. My absolute favourite is the Pro ceed GT that is the car you need to do review about because that car has that hot hatch fun always. I run it with Renault Meagan rs and surprise Ceed keep up with Renault all the time. and any KIA has amazing build quality.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Power?

[@lellobgc]

Astra, Leon, 308, Octavia? Not the same segment. You should compare with Insignia, Exeo?, 508, Superb.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Well....its better than all them.

[@RandyHartono]

it's that the end result of 37 mpg in 1.7 Diesel??? Could be better

[@carsuncovereduk]

Yes sir...... I didn't do a single long run in it. But round town that was my 1 week average on mixed driving

[@Macro_Abuser]

37mpg? Mine has done 35k miles and the average is 49.3mpg

[@PresidentJackBauer]

I wish America got that version of the car

[@petruburchel]

You will have a lot of succes. I would buy 50% of the channel.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Ha love it mate. Brilliant words to open my machine to.

[@francismcnulty2195]

Thanks for the review ! Now it's my decision ! Sportage or optima ? Mmmmmmm, the one who must be obeyed likes the Sportage ! I love the optima ( cos it's a van ) we all know who will win guys !

[@carsuncovereduk]

toughy

[@Neil2022]

It's four. Four subscribers you have now. I subscribed, so it's four.

[@carsuncovereduk]

Brilliant! Zoella can do one.

[@Neil2022]

He was never going to stand a chance. My son will be your fifth, and on my reckoning that will be another 20% increase. You will have to wait until next month for his release... Keep up the good work in the mean time....Cracking stuff!

[@carsuncovereduk]

Yes good point, your son is in prison? Ah wait in the womb?

[@TheGeezzer]

To my reasoning...a 7 year warranty is KIA having a great deal of confidence in their product!

[@carsuncovereduk]

and still no issues :)

[@TheGeezzer]

HR in a Car Oh its your car? I thought you was just reviewing it!

[@carsuncovereduk]

Yes I mean the company - I like them.

[@TheGeezzer]

HR in a Car Yes, I've been dealing with them too, over an Optima 3 saloon and they've been fair, honest and transparent. To anyone else reading this, there are some simply superb deals on nearly new cars at KIA. The Optima 3 is a lot of car for the money too!

[@carsuncovereduk]

Stinger £34k with no miles too. Crazy

[@MalamIbnMalam]

should have gotten the 2.0T, that is much more of a drivers car.

[@lotus956]

Optima engines are blowing up.

[@shawnlee664]

Kia stinger! It will convince you.

[@carsuncovereduk]

yep done the stinger too mate. its v good.

[@particleinthewave8378]

The Optima isn’t in the same class as a Audi or BMW by 10’s of thousands of dollars so not sure why you are making this comparison

[@robinfee1513]

The really light steering put me off the car, had no feedback whatsoever

[@meanvecktor1900]

Hell Naw Never!!!!

[@Northernerdownsouth]

37mpg from a 1.7 😮 my 330d does 42mpg easily

[@chandramohan7155]

But Octavia is much better

[@mustafizrahman.]

Unless true, I find your comments on your personal circumstances and the generalisation of South Koreans in bad taste

[@utterbullspit]

Americans don't get this car because it's not available here.