Kia Optima vs Toyota Avensis

Is time running out for the established contenders in the family car class? The new Kia Optima has already proven it has what it takes to upset the old order, beating talented rivals from VW and Hyundai in our Issue 1,204 group test.

With its bold styling, upmarket cabin and fuel efficient 1.7-litre diesel engine, the Optima is a huge leap forward over its woeful Magentis predecessor. What’s more, it comes packed with standard kit and has an attractive price, while the package is backed up by Kia’s industry-leading seven-year warranty.

But the Optima isn’t the only new model charged with toppling the class leaders. The Toyota Avensis is already a familiar face in this market, and has just benefited from a thorough mid-life revamp in a bid to improve its chances.

Fresh looks, an overhauled chassis and a raft of changes aimed at slashing emissions top the list of enhancements, while a competitive price, generous haul of kit and five-year warranty prove the Avensis won’t be outshone by Kia in the value stakes.

So, can the Optima make it two in a row? Or does the overhauled Avensis have what it takes to finally shake off its status as class also-ran?

Verdict

Success in the large family car class isn’t easy to come by. With more choice for buyers and higher standards than ever, any newcomer needs to shine. So, which of our contenders here has what it takes?

Used - available now

2021 Jaguar

XE

31,847 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L

Cash £24,995

View XE

2023 Peugeot

3008

28,192 milesAutomaticDiesel1.5L

Cash £18,730

View 3008

2023 Kia

Picanto

56,757 milesManualPetrol1.0L

Cash £8,800

View Picanto

2024 SEAT

Leon

31,169 milesManualPetrol1.5L

Cash £15,400

View Leon

There’s no doubt the Avensis has been significantly improved. More refined, better equipped and sharper to drive, it no longer languishes at the bottom of the class. It’s also surprisingly practical, and low emissions make it a cost-effective option for company car users. Factor in the beautiful build quality and Toyota’s five- year warranty, and the Avensis makes a lot of sense.

Following on from the woeful Magentis, the Optima represents a remarkable turnaround in form for Kia. It’s stylish, spacious and good to drive, and easily a match for established class rivals. What’s more, it has the company’s industry-leading seven-year warranty. That’s not all: you can pick one of the brand’s great-value pre-paid servicing packs, too. And while the Optima costs a little more in company car tax, it offsets this with more lively performance and an enticing list of standard kit.

In the final reckoning, the more talented Kia comes out on top to take a well earned second road test victory. Established rivals from Ford, Vauxhall and Skoda should take note, as the Optima’s run of success is sure to continue.

Winner
Kia Optima ★★★★

Kia is clearly going from strength to strength. The Optima is a quantum-leap improvement over the old Magentis and gives the brand a genuine class contender. With its sleek looks, classy cabin and decent driving dynamics, this car is a genuinely desirable choice. It’s slightly more expensive to buy than the Toyota, and is likely to be more costly to run, but we think it’s worth the extra.

2nd
Toyota Avensis ★★★

The revised Avensis is a vast improvement. It looks little different, yet is more refined, better to drive and has impeccable build quality. And while it’s not as fast as the Kia, it rewards with low CO2 emissions and decent comfort. It’s unlikely to set your pulse racing, but the Toyota is a relaxed and hassle-free choice.