Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2015 Kia Optima Hybrid EX which is powered by a four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with an electric motor. Combined output comes to 206 peak horsepower and it’s sent through a six-speed automatic transmission. The EPA estimates the Hybrid will achieve 36 mpg in combined driving. Top highway MPG is 39 and it is very believable as I found it very stingy on fuel for highway driving.
Its appearance is more luxury than the name tag and price tags would suggest. I’m not thrilled with Hybrid’s generally but other than slow starts it is perfect on the highway. I did notice a grabbing sensation when braking and that was discomforting but understandable for Hybrids.
General Information: It is assembled in Korea, Classification is Midsize. Cars from Kia: Cadenza, Forte, Forte Koup, Forte5, K900, Optima, Rio, Rio 5-door, Sedona, Sorento, Soul and Sportage.
Handling & Performance:
Great fuel economy, great ride.
Styling:
This Optima Hybrid is really a lovely automobile and is much like its sister company Hyundai’s Sonata that I recently reviewed.
Fit and Finish:
Very good, typical of Kia products
Cost:
Outstanding value. A part of that value is made possible from the fact that Hyundai is a smart manufacturer. For example they operate their own steel mill.
Conveniences and comfort:
UVO eServices adds a new telematics suite that is enabled by an exclusive free smartphone app. With the app, drivers enjoy an increased level of in-vehicle connectivity that offers them navigation, diagnostic, and convenience features. It’s a new level of connectivity and there are no subscription fees.
Consumer Recommendations:
Include Kia in your car search. You won’t be disappointed. There are other competitors but the short list here represents the closest options. Others include Volkswagen Passat, Chevrolet Malibu, Kia Optima and Hyundai Sonata.
It is also reported by EPA that the Fusion gets 47 mpg and the Accord gets 47 mpg as well as compared with Optima at 39 mpg.
Recognized Competition:
Kia Optima Hybrid $26,000, Honda Accord Hybrid $29,000, Ford Fusion Hybrid $26,000.
Good News:
It’s a Kia, nice styling and ride and fuel economy is among the best.
Bad News:
n/a
Standard Equipment:
2.4 liter 192 HP 4-cylinder Hybrid Engine, 6-speed sportmatic transmission, Electric power steering, 17” Alloy wheels, Electronic parking brake, airbags front, side curtain, LATCH child seating safety, ABS braking system, Traction control system, Stability control, Stability management, hill assist controls, climate control, power windows and locks, AM/FM/ CD/MP3 Infinity audio system, UVO eServices with Telematics, Navigation with rear camera display, SIRIUSXM satellite radio, Bluetooth hands free, Leather seat trim, power driver seat with lumbar, heated and ventilated driver seat, power front passenger seat, heated outboard rear seats, remote keyless entry with push button start and smart keey, heated leather wrapped steering wheel, power folding mirrors with turn signal indicator, fog lights.
Gas Stats:
$3.19/ Gal avg. November 18, 2014
www.fueleconomy.gov
For more information.
35 City and 39 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $31,995 with options adding to out the door cost as equipped on test vehicle.