Nissan Optima is one of those models that often remain in the shadow of their more popular classmates, but at the same time offer a surprisingly balanced combination of design, comfort and reliability. This business class sedan, produced specifically for the Korean market (under the brand Renault Samsung Motors), has become a real find for those looking for a stylish car with Japanese roots at an affordable price. In this article we have collected exclusive photos of all generations, analyzed the key changes in the design and told what to look for when choosing Optima - from rare configurations to typical problems.

You will be surprised, but Nissan Optima (also known as Renault Samsung SM5/SM7) has little in common with the model of the same name Kia Optima - despite the similar name, these are completely different cars. There is no aggressive “tiger” design of the Koreans here: Japanese engineers relied on elegance and practicality. In the article you will find unique photos of pre-restyling versions, which are almost never found in the public domain, as well as comparison with competitors like Toyota Camry And Honda Accord.

1. Nissan Optima (SM5, 2006–2010): first generation - a modest debut with a Japanese character

Debut generation Nissan Optima (internal designation L43) appeared in 2006 and was the result of cooperation Nissan And Renault within the alliance. The car was built on a platform Nissan C, which was also used Nissan Teana And Renault Laguna III. Design of the first Optima was discreet, almost conservative - an ideal choice for business people who value discreet luxury.

Photos of this generation today are a real rarity. Please note:

  • 🔹 Front optics with rounded shapes, which visually “ages” the car, but gives it solidity.
  • 🔹 Tail lights with a vertical layout - a signature element that will later disappear in restyling.
  • 🔹 Chromed radiator grille with six cross bars - it is often confused with Toyota Camry those years.

Under the hood were naturally aspirated engines with a volume of 2.0 (140 hp) and 2.5 (170 hp), as well as diesel 2.0 dCi (150 hp) from Renault. Transmissions: 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic.

⚠️ Attention: When buying used Optima first generation, check the condition of the suspension - levers and silent blocks often “die” by 150,000 km. This is especially true for cars with mileage on Korean roads (many examples were brought from South Korea).

📊 Which generation of Nissan Optima do you like best?
  • First (2006–2010)
  • Second (2010–2015)
  • Third (2015–2020)
  • Fourth (2020–present)

2. Restyling 2008: how the design has changed (photos “before” and “after”)

In 2008 Nissan Optima survived the first restyling, which affected mainly the front part. The designers removed the rounded headlights, replacing them with more angular ones, and made the radiator grill wider and added horizontal chrome strips to it. These changes gave the car a more modern look, but not all owners appreciated the innovations.

Compare in the photo:

  • 🔸 Before restyling: headlights with “sleepy” rounded shapes, a narrow grille.
  • 🔸 After restyling: aggressive angular headlights, wide grille with chrome, new bumper with drop-shaped foglights.

Characteristics Before restyling (2006–2008) After restyling (2008–2010)
Headlights Rounded, with soft transitions Angular, with clear edges
Radiator grille Narrow, 6 vertical slats Wide, horizontal chrome strips
Bumper Minimalist design More massive, with integrated PTF
Tail lights Vertical, with red brake lights No changes

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If you are looking Optima first generation for tuning, take the pre-restyling version - its rounded shapes lend themselves better to modifications in style JDM (Japanese tuning).

After restyling, the car became visually more massive, but lost some of its uniqueness. But the sound insulation of the cabin has improved and new options have appeared, for example, a rear view camera.

3. Second generation (SM5 New, 2010–2015): design revolution and new engines

A completely new one was released in 2010 Nissan Optima (code L47), which no longer had anything in common with the first generation. The car was built on a platform Nissan D, which was also used Nissan Teana J32 And Infiniti M. The design has become more dynamic: expressive body lines, LED optics (in top versions) and an aggressive front bumper have appeared.

Key changes in the second generation:

  • 🚗 Exterior: the body became longer (+50 mm) and wider (+20 mm), the aerodynamic drag coefficient decreased to 0.28.
  • 🔧 Engines: turbo engine debuted 1.6 TCe (190 hp) from Renault, as well as updated atmospherics 2.0 And 2.5.
  • 🎛️ Salon: completely new design with premium materials, multimedia system with navigation and support Bluetooth.

Photos of the second generation interior show serious progress: there is no longer any cheap plastic, and the ergonomics have been thought out to the smallest detail. For example, a heated steering wheel with audio control buttons, as well as a digital instrument panel in top versions.

⚠️ Attention: In cars produced in 2010–2012, a problem with electronics is often encountered - the on-board computer and multimedia system are “buggy”. Please check the operation of all sensors and displays before purchasing.

Which second generation engines are the most reliable?

Atmospheric is considered the most trouble-free 2.5 QR25DE (170 hp) - with proper maintenance, it easily covers 300,000+ km. Turbo engine 1.6 TCe more powerful, but requires high-quality oil and fuel, otherwise the turbine and injection system suffer.

4. Nissan Optima (SM7, 2015–2020): transition to the premium segment

Third generation Nissan Optima (internal name SM7) was a real breakthrough - the car moved into the class premium sedans, competing with Lexus ES And Volvo S90. The design was developed in the studio Nissan Design Europe (London), and assembly was established in South Korea. The body has become even longer (4,995 mm), and the wheelbase increased to 2 850 mm - this provided record legroom for rear passengers.

In the photo of this generation, the following are striking:

  • 💎 LED optics with adaptive light (matrix headlights in top versions).
  • 🔥 Radiator grille in style V-Motionlike Nissan Maxima.
  • 🎧 Leather interior and noise-absorbing materials (noise level at a speed of 100 km/h - total 62 dB).

There's a new turbo engine under the hood 1.6 T-GDi (200 hp) with direct injection, as well as a hybrid version with e-Power (Korean market only). The gearbox is a 7-speed robot with two clutches or a classic 6-speed automatic.

Originality of the paintwork (bumpers are often repainted after an accident) | Operation of adaptive headlights (expensive repairs) | Condition of the turbine (on the 1.6 T-GDi engine) | System functionality Around View Monitor-->

5. Fourth generation (2020–present): digital revolution and hybrids

Last generation Nissan Optima (code L48) debuted in 2020 and became the first in the line to receive a fully digital instrument panel (12.3") and a two-screen multimedia system (9" + 10.25"). The design has evolved towards minimalism: unnecessary chrome elements have disappeared, and the body lines have become smoother.

The main features of the fourth generation:

  • 🤖 System ProPilot Assist — semi-autonomous driving (lane keeping, adaptive cruise control).
  • ⚡ Hybrid version with the system e-Power (1.5-liter engine + electric motor, 25% fuel savings).
  • 🎵 Audio system Bose with 10 speakers and active noise reduction.

Photos of the interior show a futuristic interior with a minimum number of physical buttons. However, some owners complain about inconvenient climate control via touch screen — when driving, distracts from the road.

⚠️ Attention: In hybrid versions Optima Model years 2020–2022 there is a problem with the system software e-Power — sometimes the electric motor switches off spontaneously. A software update from the dealer solves the problem.

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Fourth generation Nissan Optima — the only one in the line that was officially supplied to Russia (since 2021). However, due to sanctions, deliveries stopped, and now these cars are a rarity on the secondary market.

6. Comparison with competitors: why Optima is often chosen over Camry and Accord

In the background Toyota Camry And Honda Accord Nissan Optima stands out with several key advantages:

  • 💰 Price: on the secondary market Optima cheaper by 15–20% with comparable configuration.
  • 🛋️ Comfort: better sound insulation and softer suspension (especially in the third and fourth generations).
  • 🔧 Reliability: engines QR25DE And MR20DD are considered one of the most durable in the class.

However, there are also disadvantages:

  • ❌ Market Known: You have to wait longer for spare parts than for Camry.
  • ❌ Resale: Optima loses value faster due to less demand.

Parameter Nissan Optima (SM7) Toyota Camry (XV70) Honda Accord (10-gen)
Body length 4,995 mm 4,885 mm 4,880 mm
Trunk volume 508 l 524 l 570 l
Minimum price on the secondary market (2020 onwards) from 1.8 million ₽ from 2.2 million ₽ from 2.0 million ₽
Engine reliability (according to owner surveys) 4,7/5 4,9/5 4,5/5

7. Rare modifications and special editions: what collectors should look for

For true connoisseurs Nissan Optima There are unique versions that are almost never found on sale:

  • 🏆 Optima Premier: top-end equipment with all-wheel drive, leather interior Nappa and the system Bose (produced only for Korea).
  • ⚡ Optima e-Power: hybrid with electric motor 140 kW (2020-2021 only).
  • 🖤 Optima Black Edition: black exterior trim, red interior accents, 19-inch wheels (limited edition).

Photos of these versions are a real find. For example, Optima Premier easy to find out by:

  • 🔘 Chrome moldings on the doors.
  • 🔘 Two-color interior trim (black + beige).
  • 🔘 Logo Premier on the front wings.

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If you come across Optima e-Power in the aftermarket, be sure to check the service history of the hybrid battery. Replacing it costs 300 000+ ₽, but with proper use it serves 250,000+ km.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about Nissan Optima

🔧 Which Nissan Optima engine is the most reliable?

Unconditional leader - atmospheric 2.5 QR25DE (170 hp). It is easy to maintain, does not require expensive fuel and is easy to pass 300,000+ km with regular oil changes (every 10,000 km). Turbo engines 1.6 TCe And 1.6 T-GDi more powerful, but sensitive to the quality of gasoline and oil.

💡 Why is Nissan Optima cheaper than Toyota Camry with similar characteristics?

Main reasons:

  • Less brand awareness Renault Samsung in Russia.
  • More offers with mileage in Korea (many cars are “Korean imports”).
  • There is less demand on the secondary market, which puts pressure on prices.

🔍 How to distinguish the second generation restyled Optima (2013–2015) from the pre-restyling?

Main external differences:

  • 🔹 New front optics with LED-running lights (in top versions).
  • 🔹 Modified radiator grille with larger cells.
  • 🔹 Other tail lights with LED-elements.
  • 🔹 New wheel rims (17" instead of 16" in the basic version).

The cabin now has an updated multimedia system with support Apple CarPlay (since 2014).

🛠️ What are the typical problems with the third generation Nissan Optima (SM7)?

The most common complaints from owners:

  • 🔋 Rapid battery discharge (especially in cold weather) due to energy-intensive electronics.
  • 🎵 Audio system malfunctions Bose (flashing or replacing the amplifier helps).
  • 🔥 Overheating of the turbine on the engine 1.6 T-GDi during aggressive driving (solved by installing an additional radiator).

📸 Where can I find high-quality high-resolution photos of Nissan Optima?

Best sources:

  • 🔹 Official website Renault Samsung Motors (archive of models).
  • 🔹 NetCarShow (galleries with photos in 4K).
  • 🔹 Korean car forums (for example, Bobae Dream).
  • 🔹Owner groups Nissan Optima in Telegram And VK (photos of rare modifications are often posted there).