Plug-in Hybrid
EV=29mi
Total=610mi
Range
Seats 5
9.9ft3 Cargo
L=191.1
W=73.2
H=57.5
9.8kWh Battery
Now the 11th most valuable automotive brand, Kia ranks ahead of numerous premium and luxury car manufacturers. As of June 2019, Kia Motors was ranked the Highest Mass Market Brand for a fifth consecutive year by the J.D. Power U.S. Initial Quality Study. Additionally, Kia's reported problem levels improved by two points over last year to secure the top spot over all non-luxury automakers and second among all brands, luxury and non-luxury; and four Kia models were included among the top 10 vehicles in the industry – the most of any brand.
Kia’s Optima model is one of the brand’s most popular and successful cars. Between 2000 and 2018, it sold around 1.5 million units of its gas and hybrid Optima versions in the USA, and millions more Optimas worldwide.
When the Kia Optima eco-version was introduced to the public in 2016, reviewers praised its excellent handling, contemporary streamlined looks, fuel efficiency and reasonable price. Kia added a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain to make the Optima Hybrid, then added a larger, rechargeable battery pack to create the Optima Plug-In Hybrid.
Now in its fourth-generation, the 2020 Optima Plug-In Hybrid has received an EPA Fuel Economy Rating of 41 MPG Combined, City/Highway, and a Combined City/Highway MPGe Rating of 101. These are excellent marks. Its total range of 630 miles makes it a highly efficient commuter choice.
The EPA has calculated that drivers of the 2020 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid will save $3,750 in fuel costs over 5 years, compared to driving a comparable new fossil fuel car.
Drivers are eligible for a High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) decal in California, meaning you can use HOV lanes even when you’re driving solo. Cost-reducing government incentives may be available. A Current EV representative can explain them to you in detail.
The plug-in is available in one trim only: EX ($36,090).
The 2020 Kia Optima Plug-in Hybrid received an upgrade in standard equipment. It includes 17-in alloy wheels, an 8-inch UVO infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless charging, standard Kia Drive Wise technology (which includes forward-collision warning, forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and driver attention warning). A Technology Package is available, which provides ambient lighting, LED headlights and fog lights, a 10-way power adjustable front passenger seat, a panoramic sunroof, and ventilated front seats. Navigation is now standard on the
2020 Optima Plug-In Hybrid via the Technology Package.
Kia's 1st plug-in vehicle uses a 154-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder Gas Direct Injection (GDI) engine that works in conjunction with a 67-hp electric motor/generator to deliver a peak system output of 202 horsepower. A six-speed automatic transmission with the electric motor replaces the torque converter to drive the front wheels.
It takes about 9 hours to recharge the car's battery using a 120-volt supply but only 3 hours if you have access to a Level 2 240-volt connection.
Autotrader.com reviewers point out the following likes: attractive styling, decent performance, generous standard driver assistance tech, roomy interior, lots of upscale features, easy-to-use infotainment interface, an excellent warranty.
Which Optima Plug-In Hybrid do Edmunds reviewers recommend? “With just one trim level available, the Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid EX is an easy recommendation. But we also like the extra features that come with the Technology package, such as a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable driver's seat, upgraded Harman Kardon sound system, and navigation system. Even with these extra luxury and tech items, and factoring in a federal tax credit, the Optima Plug-In Hybrid remains competitively priced.”
REVISED JULY 2019
There are currently 4 primary incentives available to the California consumer that substantially lower the cost of buying or leasing an EV. CURRENT provides all the guidance or assistance you may need to apply for these incentives.
