Kia Optima Plug-in hybrid revealed

Image of James Kelly
Author: | Updated: 25 Aug 2016 11:24

Kia has revealed that a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant of its Mondeo-rivalling Optima saloon will be in showrooms soon. Featuring a conventional 2.0-litre petrol engine and a 50kW electric motor, it will be able to travel up to 33 miles on electric power only and has a startlingly low C02 output of just 37g/km.

Kia Optima plug-in hybrid is aimed at rivalling the Mondeo Hybrid and other PHEV vehicles

See more lease deals on the conventional Optima: business / personal

Unlike the company’s recently revealed Niro crossover – a conventional hybrid – the Optima gets plug-in technology similar to that seen in the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. The 2.0-litre petrol engine produces 154bhp, while the electric motor provides a further 67bhp thanks to a 9.8kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack.

In hybrid mode, it manages a 0-62mph run of 9.1 seconds, while official economy stats state that it’s capable of an astounding 176.6mpg. Figures that high probably won’t be attainable in the real world, but Kia claim it has a 33-mile range on electric power alone, at speeds of up to 75mph too.

Plug-in tech theoretically allows for an astonishing 176.6mpg

It comes with a six-speed transmission that connected directly to the electric motor, while its batteries are located where you’d usually find the spare wheel. This has negated boot capacity somewhat, with luggage space reduced from 510 litres to just 307.

Other advanced fuel saving tech has been harnessed, including a regenerative braking system that uses kinetic (moving) energy to recharge the batteries when the car is coasting and braking. Another clever addition comes from a ‘HVAC’ system, that heats the driver’s side of the cabin, but saves energy by excluding unoccupied seats.

Boot space is reduced to that of a hatchback due to the battery packs

Kia is keen to point out that its plug-in technology is not the be all and end all, and says the Optima PHEV is ‘a unique, extensively equipped stand-alone model in the Optima range’.

It’s certainly the Optima with the most comprehensive kit list, featuring an 8in touchscreen infotainment system, satnav, a wireless phone charging point, a 10-speaker sound system, parking sensors, a reversing camera, dual-zone air con, cruise control and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.

Latest infotainment system is compatible with Auto Android and Apple CarPlay

First drive review: Kia Optima saloon

The infotainment system is fully compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (available later in the production run), while the exterior also sees updates. There’s  PHEV-specific front and rear bumpers (to make it as aerodynamic as possible), an active air-flap front grille, chrome trim and 17in alloy wheels.

The Optima PHEV has been unveiled just weeks after Kia revealed the upcoming Niro crossover – a conventionally powered hybrid aimed at biting into the Toyota Prius’ market share. The Optima hybrid on the other hand, is designed to take on the latest generation of plug-in hybrid saloons such as the Ford Mondeo hybrid and the Volkswagen Passat GTE.

Optima PHEV release date should be confirmed soon

After the government’s plug-in grant has been taken into account, it will have a list price of £31,495. We’ll have to wait and see how much lease prices will be, but thanks to its low-emission credentials, it does get a BiK (Benefit in Kind) rate of just 7%, so that should keep fleet managers happy.

Previous Post Next Post
Not sure what car you want?
  • Easy-to-use tool
  • Save time and money
  • Meet your match
Find your dream car

Manufacturer Spotlight

Related Deals

  • KIA Ev6

    166kW GT Line 77.4kWh 5dr Auto

    KIA Ev6 166kW GT Line 77.4kWh 5dr Auto
    Personal Contract Hire
    9+47 5k Miles p/a
    Initial Payment: £3,741.48
    £415.72
    p/m inc. VAT
    View
    Deal by: CVSL Limited
  • KIA Ev6

    166kW GT Line 77.4kWh 5dr Auto

    KIA Ev6 166kW GT Line 77.4kWh 5dr Auto
    Personal Contract Hire
    3+47 5k Miles p/a
    Initial Payment: £1,396.83
    £465.61
    p/m inc. VAT
    View
    Deal by: CVSL Limited
  • KIA Ceed

    1.5T GDi ISG GT-Line 5dr

    KIA Ceed 1.5T GDi ISG GT-Line 5dr
    Personal Contract Hire
    9+47 5k Miles p/a
    Initial Payment: £1,971.63
    £219.07
    p/m inc. VAT
    View
    Deal by: VIP Gateway Limited
  • KIA Niro

    150kW 4 64kWh 5dr Auto

    KIA Niro 150kW 4 64kWh 5dr Auto
    Personal Contract Hire
    9+47 5k Miles p/a
    Initial Payment: £3,315.69
    £368.41
    p/m inc. VAT
    View
    Deal by: VIP Gateway Limited