Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Kia Clarus Combi (GC) 2.0 i 16V (133 Hp)
Overall Rating
Kia Clarus:
The Kia Credos was Kia's first self developed mid-size family sedan, which went on sale in South Korea in 1995, and in Australia in 1998. The Credos is based on the fifth generation Mazda Capella/Cronos, which was also sold as the Mazda 626.
It was powered by one of four gasoline engines. Initially, three engines are offered, depending on the trim: 1. 8-litre Kia T8D engine; 2. 0-litre Mazda FE SOHC engine; and 2. 0-litre Mazda FE-DOHC engine. A fourth engine, a licensed version of 2. 0-litre V6 DOHC Rover KV6 engine, was available with the facelifted version from 1998 and on, which also added a station wagon variation, called the Parktown in its native Korea, where it was a commercial flop....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Combi (GC) Overview:
Kia Clarus (Combi (GC)). With 171 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1300 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 10.9 s). The top speed reaches 195 km/h. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
2.0 i 16V (133 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Provides a marginal increase in power over the 1.8L, but surprisingly, the listed acceleration is slightly slower. It offers a smoother, more relaxed cruising experience, especially on highways.
Fuel Economy
Likely to have similar or slightly worse fuel economy than the 1.8L due to increased displacement, making it a less efficient choice for those prioritizing running costs.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Spacious interior and large boot capacity for a family car.
- • Generally good value for money on the used market.
- • Comfortable ride quality for long journeys.
- • Simple, proven engine technology (though less efficient).
Cons:
- • Poor Euro NCAP safety rating (1.5 stars) is a significant concern.
- • High fuel consumption, especially for the performance offered.
- • Uninspired performance and handling compared to rivals.
- • Dated interior design and materials.
- • Limited availability of parts and specialist knowledge today.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(K9A: 1996 - 1998).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Kia |
| Model: | Clarus |
| Generation: | Combi (GC) |
| Modification (Engine): | 2.0 i 16V (133 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1998 |
| End of production: | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 133 Hp @ 6000 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 66.6 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 171 Nm @ 4000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | FE [Same engine] More details about the engine FE |
| Engine displacement: | 1998 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.3 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 86 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 86 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9.2:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 13.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 8.1 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 195 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.6 kg/Nm, 131.5 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 10.4 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1300 |
| Max. weight: | 1865 |
| Max load: | 565 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1580 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 304 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 60 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4750 mm mm [54mm more] |
| Width: | 1785 mm mm [15mm more] |
| Height: | 1495 mm mm [75mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2659 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1500 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1500 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/70 R14 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
How many miles have you covered in your Kia Clarus? Share your journey!