Kia Credos
Kia's first foray into the European D-segment, based on proven Mazda mechanicals.
- Power
- 131 bhp
- Top speed
- 115 mph
About the Kia Credos
The Kia Credos, marketed as the Clarus in most export markets, represented the brand's first serious attempt at a mid-sized family saloon for the global market. It was heavily based on the Mazda 626 (GE platform), sharing its chassis and basic suspension architecture, which provided a surprisingly competent ride. The 2.0-litre T8D engine was a Mazda-derived unit that offered reliable, if uninspired, performance for the era. While it lacked the brand prestige of European rivals, it was noted for its generous equipment levels and competitive pricing.
Kia Credos specs
The Kia Credos produces 131 bhp (98 kW) and 171 Nm (126 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h).
| Make | Kia |
|---|---|
| Model | Credos |
| Trim | 2.0 |
| Years | 1995–2001 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | South Korea |
| Engine | 2.0-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 131 bhp (98 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 171 Nm (126 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| Top speed | 115 mph (185 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,278 kg (2,818 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 103 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Kia Credos rarity in CarSpot
The Kia Credos is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 5 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Kia Credos fun facts
- The Credos name is derived from the Latin word for 'belief' or 'trust'.
- In the South Korean market, the Credos was the first Kia model to feature a chassis tuned with input from Lotus Engineering.
- The model was replaced by the Kia Magentis (Optima) in 2001, marking the start of Kia's modern design era.
