Page 70 - ElectriCar Magazine

The Optima Hybrid comes well-equipped with standard features
Smooth ride, comfortable interior, generous set of standard features and combine it with more than 40 MPGe, and you get the
2020 Kia Optima Hybrid. If you are considering a midsize sedan for short- range commutes and in-town driving, the Optima Hybrid deserves a look.
The regular Optima’s reputation
is well-earned. It is sleek and looks great thanks to a guiding hand from one of Audi’s former top designers.
It is also loaded with features and has an infotainment system that
is among the most user-friendly
in the class. The Optima Hybrid amplifies these virtues by adding an impressive fuel economy of 42 MPGe combined (40 city/45 highway).
These aren not the best numbers
in the class. The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry hybrids do better, and do it without sacrificing much trunk space. The Optima Hybrid gives
up space to house its battery pack compared to its gas-only counterpart. On the other hand, the Optima Hybrid is dynamic and entertaining to drive,
68
more so than some other midsize hybrid alternatives. It’s a competitive option in a competitive class.
With just one trim level available, the EX is an easy recommendation. But we also like the extra features that come with the Technology package, such as a panoramic
The Hybrid gives up 2.5 cubic feet of space to
its battery pack, on the other hand, the Optima Hybrid is dynamic and entertaining to drive
sunroof, 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, upgraded Harman Kardon sound system and navigation system. Even with these extra
luxury and tech items, the Optima Hybrid is still competitively priced.
The 2020 Optima Hybrid is a five- passenger midsize sedan powered by the combination of an electric
motor and 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Together they make 192 horsepower and put power to the road through a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The Optima Hybrid comes well- equipped with standard features, but there is one available package to dress up the Kia further. There is also an Optima Plug-In Hybrid.
Only one trim level is available, the EX, and it comes with a shedload
of standard features. Highlights include leather seating, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Uvo 8-inch touchscreen tech interface, wireless device charging, push- button ignition, and a comprehensive suite of driver aids, such as forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control, among others.
The Technology package adds items such as larger wheels, LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and sound-reducing side windows. There is an upgraded Harman Kardon stereo system, a navigation system, ventilated
ElectriCar Magazine