Chevrolet Cruze vs Kia Optima
The Chevrolet Cruze is more fuel-efficient at 32 MPG combined, against 27 MPG for the Kia Optima. At EPA assumptions that is about $400 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Cruze | Kia Optima | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,354 | 1,264 |
| Most reported problem | Engine | Engine |
| Crashes and fires | 104 and 26 | 37 and 120 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 55,000 miles | 80,000 miles |
| Recalls | 7 | 5 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 32 MPG | 27 MPG |
| City and highway | 28 and 40 | 24 and 34 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,100 | $2,500 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,354 complaints for the Chevrolet Cruze and 1,264 for the Kia Optima. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
NHTSA's overall safety ratings: 5 stars for the Chevrolet Cruze, 5 stars for the Kia Optima.
Safety recalls on file: 7 for the Chevrolet Cruze, 5 for the Kia Optima.