The sedan Kia Clarus 1996 - 1998 year modification 1.8 AT (116 hp)

Engine
Engine type	petrol
Engine capacity, cm³	1793
Boost type	No
Maximum power, hp/kW at rpm	116 / 85 at 5750
Maximum torque, N*m at rpm	152 at 4500
Cylinder arrangement	in-line
Number of cylinders	4
Number of valves per cylinder	4
Engine power supply system	distributed injection
Compression ratio	9.5
Cylinder diameter and piston stroke, mm	81 × 87
General information
Brand country	South Korea
Car class	D
Number of doors	4
Performance indicators
Fuel consumption, l city / highway / combined	15 / 8.7 / 10.9
Fuel type	Normal (92)
Maximum speed, km/h	178
Acceleration to 100 km/h, s	13.9
Sizes in mm
Length	4696
Width	1770
Height	1420
Wheelbase	2659
Ground clearance	165
Front track width	1500
Rear track width	1500
Wheel size	195 / 65 / R14
Suspension and brakes
Type of front suspension	independent, spring
Type of rear suspension	independent, spring
Front brakes	disk ventilated
Rear brakes	disc
Transmission
Transmission	automatic
Number of gears	4
Drive type	front
Volume and weight
Fuel tank capacity, l	60
Curb weight, kg	1233
Trunk volume min/max, l	424
Gross weight, kg	1750

Kia Clarus 1.8 AT: A Reliable and Practical Sedan from the Late 90s

The Kia Clarus, produced between 1996 and 1998, is a mid-size sedan that offers a blend of practicality, comfort, and reliability. As part of the D-class segment, this South Korean vehicle was designed to cater to families and individuals seeking a dependable car with a spacious interior and decent performance. With its 1.8-liter petrol engine and automatic transmission, the Clarus provides a smooth driving experience, making it a solid choice for those who value comfort and ease of use.

Performance and Efficiency

Under the hood, the Kia Clarus is powered by a 1.8-liter inline-4 petrol engine, delivering 116 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and 152 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. While its acceleration to 100 km/h in 13.9 seconds may not be groundbreaking, it is sufficient for everyday driving. The car reaches a top speed of 178 km/h, ensuring it can handle highway speeds with ease. Fuel consumption is reasonable for its class, with combined figures of 10.9 liters per 100 kilometers, making it a practical option for both city and highway driving.

Design and Dimensions

The Kia Clarus boasts a classic sedan design with a length of 4,696 mm, a width of 1,770 mm, and a height of 1,420 mm. Its wheelbase of 2,659 mm ensures a spacious interior, providing ample legroom for passengers. The trunk offers a minimum volume of 424 liters, making it suitable for family trips or grocery runs. The car's ground clearance of 165 mm and 195/65 R14 wheels contribute to a comfortable ride, even on uneven roads.

Comfort and Safety Features

The Clarus is equipped with an independent spring suspension system on both the front and rear, ensuring a smooth and stable ride. Ventilated disc brakes at the front and standard disc brakes at the rear provide reliable stopping power. While the car lacks some modern safety features, its sturdy build and practical design make it a safe choice for its time. The automatic transmission adds to the convenience, especially for drivers who prefer a hassle-free driving experience.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Spacious interior, reliable engine, smooth automatic transmission, decent fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride.
Cons: Modest acceleration, dated design, and limited modern safety features compared to newer models.

Conclusion

The Kia Clarus 1.8 AT is a practical and reliable sedan that caters to those seeking a no-frills, dependable vehicle. While it may not stand out in terms of performance or modern features, its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel efficiency make it a solid choice for families and daily commuters. If you're in the market for a budget-friendly, easy-to-maintain car from the late 90s, the Kia Clarus is worth considering.