Flash Drive

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid

March 30, 2017 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid EX

The 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid is handsome outside and spacious inside.

Engine: 2.0-liter I-4 hybrid engine (50 hp electric), 192 horsepower (combined) 271 lb-ft torque (combined)

Transmission: 6-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 39 mpg city/46 mpg highway/42 mpg combined

Base Price: $30,990

As Tested: $37,235

Performance:

Smooth engine and transmission

Seamless transitions between gas and hybrid modes

EV, Eco, and Sport engine modes

Charge, Eco, and Power modes for hybrid system

The 2017 Optima Hybrid uses a gas engine and an electric motor for excellent power and economy.

Excellent gauges for monitoring hybrid functions

Blind spot monitor

Lane departure warning

Autonomous Emergency Braking System

Forward collision warning

High beam assist

Dynamic bending headlights

Digital and analog speedometer

Comfort:

Super stretch-out front legroom

Three temperature heated and cooled front seats

Power lumbar support

Two temperature heated outboard rear seats

Huge panoramic sunroof brightens whole interior

Front seat room and comfort and outstanding . The thick steering wheel is heated.

Good headroom

Heated leather steering wheel

Good auxiliary controls

Tilt/telescopic steering column

Padded, but hard armrest on center console

Large, sliding sunvisors

Soft headrests

Excellent rear seat legroom

Rear middle position tight and uncomfortable

Utility:

Doors open wide for easy access

There is lots of instrumentation to keep track of hybrid functions and economy.

Four grab handles

Large console bin

Medium size front door bins

Medium size, non-locking glovebox

LED map lamps

Two seatback storage pouches

Auto folding side mirrors

Big infotainment/navigation screen

Split folding rear seats with slight slope

Wide pass-through port from trunk

Big trunk with wide opening and flat floor

Small rear door bins

Pull-up rear window shades

WOW Factors:

Headlights bend as car turns

The optional Technology Package includes Dynamic Bending Headlights.

Handsome styling

The Kia Optima is sharp looking from all angles. Trunk/cargo space is excellent.

Super stretch-out front legroom

Heated front and rear seats

Heated steering wheel

Excellent panoramic sun/moon roof

Strong value proposition

Whines:

Hard, tight, uncomfortable rear middle seating position

Cheap trunk carpeting

Bottom Line:

The 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid is a handsome mid-size sedan that’s loaded with comfort and high-tech features. It’s very spacious inside, smooth riding, and gets excellent fuel economy. The Kia Optima is competitively priced and has an excellent warranty.