The mid-size Optima->ke1325 is Kia'->ke41s best-seller, and it's been an impressive contender in a highly competitive market. Between the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord,->ke237 Ford Fusion->ke433 and Chevrolet Malibu,->ke1034 there's not much room for slacking when it comes to family sedans.->ke142 Kia has worked hard to successfully keep up with the demands of nipping at the heels of the best-sellers, and it follows up on the fresh redesign of the Optima with an equally refurbished Optima Hybrid.

Not to be overshadowed by the introduction of the all-new Niro hybrid, Kia's gasoline-electric Optima broadens from a single model into a lineup, with the addition of a plug-in hybrid version to the stable. This is as much to improve the breed as it is to keep up with the figurative Joneses: Ford,->ke31 Toyota->ke88 and Honda->ke34 all offer hybrids, and the Optima is available as a plug-in version as well.

Both of the upcoming Optima hybrids are sold under Kia's new EcoDynamics sub-brand. Kia's future electric->ke1030 and hybrid->ke147 projects will also migrate to this umbrella, for stronger brand recognition.

Continue reading to learn more about the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid.

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid

Specifications
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  • Model: 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid
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Pros
Cons

Exterior

The Optima is a striking car, with a dramatically sloped fastback look and a curve, coupe-like roof. The Optima's got flashy new styling, and the Optima Hybrid doesn't change that much. Kia's familiar "tiger nose" grille has a flush piano-black cover, similar to the smooth face of the Kia Soul Electric. In the Optima Hybrid this is part of an active grille system, that's able to open and close automatically at high speeds to improve engine cooling and aerodynamics.

From there back the changes to this long, low hybrid are subtle. At a glance it shares the looks of the gasoline version, but Kia has installed a unique front apron, a redesigned rear bumper with an air diffuser and more aerodynamic wheels that are unique to the Optima Hybrid. LED exterior lighting and satin-finish paint also set the Optima Hybrid apart.

Interior

The Optima Hybrid features a unique instrument panel that enables monitoring of the battery, and it shares the Optima's wide console and comfortable cabin. Vibration-reducing seat frames improve the ride, and heated and cooled seats are available. A cool new feature is Eco-DAS1 ("Driver Assistance System"), which offers a "Coasting Guide." It coaches the driver, offering efficiency-improving advice on when to coast and brake with blinking icons on the instrument panel. The Optima's wireless phone charger and 360-degree Surround View Monitor are available on the hybrid as well.

Kia's UVO infotainment system is expanded for use in the Optima Hybrid with battery life and other vehicle telematics functions. It's compatible with Android 4Auto and Apple5 CarPlay as well. A navigation system, and Harman/Kardon QuantumLogic sound system are also available.

Drivetrain

Just as it is with performance cars, constant improvements are vital to keep the Optima Hybrid relevant. Kia has replaced the former 2.4 liter four-cylinder with an all-new 2.0 liter direct-injection four. The water pump and oil pump are electric, to reduce parasitic power losses. This 154-horsepower engine is connected to a 38-kW electric motor via a hybrid starter-generator, providing a system total of approximately 193 horsepower.

The electric motor replaces the traditional torque convertor in the six-speed automatic transmission, so the instant torque improves off-the-line performance. Because the Optima's running a conventional six-speed transmission instead of a CVT, it provides a more direct and engaging driving experience, which will definitely appeal to drivers who don't like the rubbery feeling of continuously variable units.

A compact high-density lithium-polymer battery lives under the trunk floor, and doesn't reduce cargo space. The 1.62 kWh battery represents a 13-percent increase in capacity over the previous model. With the relocated battery, the Optima Hybrid is also able to offer 60/40 folding rear seats, unlike many hybrids that mount the battery behind a fixed rear bulkhead.

Safety

Crash test ratings for the 2017 Optima Hybrid aren't yet available, but the 2016 gasoline-powered version performed strongly in both IIHS and NHTSA testing, landing five-star scores across the board. The Optima's structure is about half Advanced High Strength Steel; in addition to providing a quieter ride it offers a stronger structure. Active drive aids include a new Autonomous Emergency Braking system that can bring the Optima Hybrid to a complete stop when triggered, a blind spot detection system and lane-departure warning system, and intelligent cruise control.

Prices

Optima Hybrid pricing hasn't been set yet. The car goes on sale later this year and pricing will be announced closer to launch. The competition's priced in the mid- to high-$20,000 range, so expect the Optima to slip into a similar bracket.

Competition

Ford Fusion Hybrid

The Fusion's 2.0 liter four-cylinder and electric motor combination is one of the smoothest out there, and the Fusion Hybrid combines many of Ford's upscale interior options for a luxurious ride.

Read our full review on the Ford Fusion Hybrid here.

Toyota Camry Hybrid

Toyota was one of the first to the hybrid party, and the Camry has remained a benchmark. With a 2.5 liter four-cylinder, it has one of the larger gasoline engines in the segment, which is pleasantly noticeable when it comes time to pull away from a stoplight.

Read our full review on the Toyota Camry Hybrid here.

Honda Accord Hybrid

Honda's large hybrid surprises with 50mpg fuel economy in the city and a very spacious interior. The recently-redesigned Accord feels like a much more expensive car, and it's reasonably fun to drive as well.

Read our full review on the Honda Accord Hybrid here.

Conclusion

Hybrids have become such an integral part of a mass-market lineup that the redesigned Optima Hybrid seems almost like a foregone conclusion. Although most of the alt-fuel attention is on full electrics these days, the advances in battery technology and system efficiency are still trickling down, and the Optima Hybrid's a good example of the breed.