Chevrolet Cruze vs. Kia Optima

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Chevrolet Cruze and Kia Optima contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Chevrolet Cruze and the Kia Optima.

In comparing the Chevrolet Cruze's and the Kia Optima's specifications and ratings, the Chevrolet Cruze has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, and fuel efficiency and resale value. The Kia Optima has the advantage in the areas of interior volume and base engine power. Based on this comparison of the Chevrolet Cruze's and the Kia Optima's specifications and ratings, the Chevrolet Cruze is a better car than the Kia Optima.

Pricing: A used 2019 Chevrolet Cruze ranges from $9,993 to $18,995 while a used 2019 Kia Optima is priced between $11,848 to $21,235.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Chevrolet Cruze loses 40 percent of its value and the Kia Optima loses 43.1 percent of its value. This means the Chevrolet Cruze retains 3.1 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Kia Optima.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Chevrolet Cruze’s base engine makes 153 horsepower, and the Kia Optima base engine makes 185 horsepower. The Cruze is rated to deliver an average of 32 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 521 miles. The Optima is rated to deliver an average of 27 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 611 miles.This gives the Chevrolet Cruze the advantage in fuel efficiency and the Kia Optima the advantage in maximum range. Both models use regular unleaded.

Passenger Space Comparison: The Kia Optima, a midsize car, has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front head room, front shoulder room, front leg room, rear head room, rear shoulder room, and cargo space. The Chevrolet Cruze, a compact car, has the advantage in the area of rear leg room.

Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, the Kia Optima has higher safety ratings than the Chevrolet Cruze, with an average rating of 5 out of 5 Stars compared to 4.51 out of 5 Stars.