Kia Optima vs Subaru WRX
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Kia Optima
Price TBC
Sedan
Petrol
Theta II 2.4 GDI
148kW
7.9 L/100km
5★ ANCAP
505L
Subaru WRX
From $48,890
Sedan
Petrol
Petrol
202kW
9.9 L/100km
ANCAP: no data
414L
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Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The Subaru WRX counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Harman Kardon audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Kia Optima uses a Theta II 2.4 GDI producing 148kW and 250Nm of torque, sent through a 6-speed automatic to a FWD layout.
The Subaru WRX responds with a Petrol making 202kW and 350Nm, paired to a manual driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.4 seconds.
The Subaru WRX has the clear power advantage at 202kW vs 148kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Kia Optima measures 4,845mm long on a 2,795mm wheelbase, 175mm longer than the Subaru WRX at 4,670mm (2,675mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Kia Optima generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 505L in the Kia Optima and 414L in the Subaru WRX, giving the Kia Optima a 91L advantage.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.9m to 11.2m
Based on 10.9m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,252/year for the Kia Optima and $2,822/year for the Subaru WRX. That is a $570 annual difference in favour of the Kia Optima.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (Kia Optima) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru WRX). The Kia Optima has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Kia Optima if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru WRX if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia Optima takes 4 of 5 key spec categories. The Kia Optima will save you roughly $570 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Kia Optima has a clear edge. The Kia Optima adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Kia Optima and Subaru WRX?
The Subaru WRX is the cheapest at $48,890 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Kia Optima uses the least fuel at 7.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
What are the ANCAP safety ratings?
Kia Optima holds a 5-star ANCAP rating. We have no published ANCAP rating for Subaru WRX, so there is nothing to compare on crash performance. Compare the active-safety features above instead.
Which has the most boot space?
The Kia Optima has the largest boot at 505L.
Which can tow the most?
The Kia Optima has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,200kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Kia Optima has the longest warranty at 7 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The Subaru WRX makes the most power at 202kW.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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