The Kia Optima Hybrid sedan is not only about fuel efficiency but also promises a pleasant experience when taken around the town. The car closely shares its electric/petrol power train with its close cousin Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. One of the most notable aspects of this Kia car is its extended tiger nose. Overall, Kia Optima Hybrid is slightly larger and a little more rounder than its contemporaries. The list of revised features on outer level includes front bumper, vents, and lower lip. All these improvements have been brought-in for increasing aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicle. Car’s fuel efficiency and drag’s coefficient has been taken care by its new set of 17” wheels.
Beneath the hood, this hybrid vehicle carries a 2.4-litre, 4-pot, petrol engine that couples with an electric motor. The output churned by this team equals 199hp against a peak torque of 235lb-ft. it melds with a 6-speed automatic transmission to deliver an out of the box performance. The car effortlessly picks up over highways and delivers decent performance on uphill climbs and rough terrains.
In terms of fuel economy, Kia Optima Hybrid dictates far better figures than its regular version. The green car runs 36 miles per gallon over urban ways and 40 miles per gallon over freeways. The combined fuel efficiency of vehicle equals 38mpg which is quite good. The NVH levels of engine are pretty decent and over regular days you wouldn’t even know when engine starts and when it shifts to sleep mode.
The cabin is super-insulated from outside noise and pollution, while driving you will only know rumbling of tires and a very low humming noise of motors. The tires come with low-rolling-resistance which means you might need to be a little more careful in terms of handling. Another special feature gives this new car a true hybrid status is its brake-pedal feel. Being an environmental friendly vehicle, the car’s system mainly captures braking energy and stores it in car’s battery. You may need some practice before getting used to it.
The hi-tech features list of Kia Optima Hybrid includes Bluetooth, rearview camera, airbags, a heated steering wheel, MyUVO infotainment system, and airbags. The comfort level is enhanced by leather upholstery, soft-touch plastics, a small trunk space, etc. The hybrid vehicle is presently available in 2 trims: EX and LX. EX has better fuel economy as compared with LX.
