The Kia Optima IV (facelift, introduced in 2018) 1.6 CRDi producing 136 horsepower represents a significant offering in the mid-size sedan segment. Produced from 2018 through 2020, this variant was positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical choice within the Optima lineup, appealing to buyers prioritizing economy and reasonable performance. It falls within the fourth generation of the Optima (known as the K5 in some markets), which debuted in 2015 and received a substantial refresh in 2018, encompassing styling updates, revised technology, and powertrain refinements. This particular engine and transmission combination was primarily sold in European and Asian markets, with a smaller presence in North America where larger displacement engines were favored.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Optima |
| Generation | Optima IV (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5-5.6 l/100 km (47 – 42 US mpg, 56.5 – 50.4 UK mpg, 20 – 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 130-146 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 4.9-5.2 l/100 km (48 – 45.2 US mpg, 57.6 – 54.3 UK mpg, 20.4 – 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4-4.3 l/100 km (58.8 – 54.7 US mpg, 70.6 – 65.7 UK mpg, 25 – 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.3-4.6 l/100 km (54.7 – 51.1 US mpg, 65.7 – 61.4 UK mpg, 23.3 – 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 114-122 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 197 km/h (122.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp, 89.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 211.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000-2250 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4FE |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1515-1630 kg (3340 – 3593.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2070 kg (4563.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 440-555 kg (970.03 – 1223.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 510 l (18.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 14 l (3.7 US gal | 3.08 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4855 mm (191.14 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2805 mm (110.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1597-1607 mm (62.87 – 63.27 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1604-1621 mm (63.15 – 63.82 in.) |
| Front overhang | 965 mm (37.99 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1085 mm (42.72 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16; 215/55 R17; 235/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Optima variant is the D4FE 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The D4FE engine is a common rail direct injection (CRDi) diesel, meaning fuel is delivered directly into the cylinders at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to its power output. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement. The engine’s design prioritizes low-end torque, making it suitable for everyday driving conditions. The inclusion of a particulate filter helps to reduce harmful emissions, meeting stringent Euro 6d-TEMP standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 136 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.6 CRDi engine provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.6 seconds, and top speed is rated at 197 km/h (122.41 mph). The engine’s strength lies in its mid-range torque, making overtaking and merging onto highways relatively effortless. Compared to higher-output Optima variants, such as those equipped with the 2.0-liter gasoline engine, this version feels less responsive. However, the manual transmission allows for greater driver control and engagement than the optional automatic transmission found in some markets. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine doesn’t rev as freely as some performance-oriented alternatives.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi variant typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. Features generally included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on base models, with leather options available on higher trims. Dashboard configuration was consistent across the range, featuring a modern design with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Optima IV utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension employs a McPherson strut design, while the rear features a multi-link setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality and decent handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than outright sportiness, prioritizing a smooth ride over aggressive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 CRDi Optima was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It offered a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered rivals, particularly in Europe where diesel engines were more popular. Compared to the more powerful gasoline engines available in the Optima lineup, the 1.6 CRDi prioritized economy over performance. The manual transmission was praised for its engaging feel, while the automatic option was sometimes criticized for its sluggishness. Fuel economy figures of 5-5.6 l/100 km (47-42 US mpg) were competitive within its class. Reliability reports suggest that the D4FE engine is generally robust, although regular maintenance is crucial for long-term durability.
Legacy
The Kia Optima IV 1.6 CRDi (136 Hp) has established itself as a reliable and economical used car option. The D4FE engine, while not known for blistering performance, has proven to be durable with proper maintenance. The availability of spare parts is generally good, and repair costs are relatively reasonable. In the used car market, this variant represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a comfortable, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped mid-size sedan. Its enduring appeal lies in its blend of practicality, affordability, and proven reliability.
