One of the most successful projects of the Kia concern in the 90s was the Kia Klarus car, which debuted in 1996. The model is a joint project with Mazda, in connection with which a lot was borrowed in technical terms from the Mazda 626. In Korea, Kia Clarus was produced under the name Credos.
Exterior and interior
The executive car Clarus combines European-level handling, a modern design, a quiet smooth ride, a powerful engine and a comfortable spacious interior.
Attractiveness and originality to the body of “Kia Klarus” give smooth features without sharp corners. The car is notable for good corrosion resistance and high quality paintwork.
Despite the fact that the salon visually looks very comfortable and attractive, it cannot boast of the quality of finishing materials or the original design. There is enough free space to accommodate five passengers.
At the elbow level on the driver's door there is a console with electric window controls. Under the console is a button to open the gas tank cover.
Specifications Kia Clarus
The range of power units is represented by 1.8- and two-liter gasoline engines with a capacity of 116 and 133 horsepower, respectively. Engines are equipped with a VICS system that changes the length of the inlet channel and increases the torque when the load changes, which gives great power and flexibility in any driving mode.
Kia Clarus power units are equipped with a five-speed manual transmission with a locking system or a four-speed automatic transmission with electronic control of your choice.
The suspension is characterized by a long service life, comfort and reliability.
Options
The basic version of the Kia Clarus includes an immobilizer, power steering, ventilation system and air conditioning, driver airbag, central locking with interior locking and remote control, front power windows. More expensive trim levels are complemented by wood-trimmed front panels and electric mirrors and windows. The top version is also equipped with heated mirrors and airbags for passengers.
The driver's seat in all trim levels of the Kia Clarus is adjustable in four directions, which increases ride comfort. Instruments and controls are located very convenient and practical. The luggage compartment is 425 liters, with the seats folded - 765 liters.
Restyled version
In 1998, Kia Clarus was restyled: the changes affected lighting technology and body design. The car began to be offered in a station wagon in five- and seven-seater versions.
The dimensions of Clarus have increased, a new, modern optics has appeared, equipped with reflectors and diffusers located under the fashionable polycarbonate finish.
The body of Kia Clarus is made of zinc metal - an alloy of iron with zinc-containing coatings. All structural elements are covered with anticorrosive compounds, wheel arches are installed in the niches of the front wheels.
Clarus Features
In reviews of Kia Clarus, owners note a large number of cavities and pockets for small items and documents: for example, fabric pockets are sewn to the backs of seats. The salon is comfortable and convenient thanks to well-calculated proportions. The rear seat back can be folded in a ratio of 40:60, which allows you to increase the luggage compartment up to 765 liters. In the station wagon, the seat cushions are similarly folded, forming a flat floor and increasing the luggage compartment to 1,600 liters.
Kia Clarus stands out against numerous competitors by its attractive design, convenient, comfortable and practical interior, ease of operation, silent and smooth running and ease of operation.
Clarus production was discontinued in 2001: the car was replaced by a new model - Kia Magentis.
Prices
Kia Clarus configurations are quite rich and can include a wide range of options, engines of 1.8 or 2 liters, a four-band automatic or five-speed manual transmission. The final cost of the car depends on the selected modification.
Clarus in the minimum basic configuration in a sedan, with a 1.8-liter engine, a manual transmission and without additional assistant systems and a driver airbag, central locking, air conditioning, electric windows in the front windows, power steering and an audio system with four speakers will cost 13 thousand dollars. In the station wagon body, the car will cost already 15 thousand dollars.
The top of the range Kia Clarus with a two-liter engine, leather interior, traction control, audio system, manual transmission and alloy wheels will cost $ 16,700. If you supplement the modification with options offered by the manufacturer, the amount will increase to $ 17,500.
Since Kia Clarus is discontinued, it can be purchased today in the secondary markets of both Russia and European countries.