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2016 Kia Optima Hybrid Preview

2016 Kia Optima Hybrid
Photo: Kia
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Miranda Lightstone
Elegant efficiency

Pros: Gorgeously designed, with a performance-bred hybrid system, the Kia Optima Hybrid is a stellar option if style and fuel economy are high on your priority list. 

Cons: The regular Kia Optima is quite fuel efficient on its own, so paying the premium for the hybrid version doesn’t seem entirely worth it. 

2016 Kia Optima Hybrid Price and Fuel Economy: There are three equally good versions of the Kia Optima Hybrid for this model year. Pricing starts at $30,095 for the well equipped base LX, and jumps to $36,695 for the top of the line EX Premium. 

In terms of fuel efficiency, being a hybrid this Kia Optima has some pretty stellar numbers. They do differ across the models, despite the same engine and powertrain being offered across the board. In the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid LX you’ll see 5.9L/100km on the highway and 6.6L/100km in the city. Move to the EX or EX Premium and those numbers change to 61.L/100km on the highway and 6.7L/100km on the highway. 

Powertrain: Speaking of engine and powertrain, the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid is outfitted with a 2.4L Atkinson-cylce Theta II engine that produces 159 horesepower from the gasoline side and 46 ponies of electric power for a combined rating of 199 hp. Torque from the gasoline engine online is rated at 154 lb-ft, whereas in full electric mode you’ll get 151 lb-ft. 

Power is handled via a 6-speed automatic transmission, and is sent to the front wheels at all times. 

Changes and Improvement: There are no major changes to the Kia Optima Hybrid this year save for some aesthetic differences that fall in line with the rest of Kia’s lineup; honeycomb-like front grill and LED DRL, as well as LED light bar taillights.

Cargo Capacity: The 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid offers up seating for five, and has 305 litres of trunk space available for all your gear. 

Safety: The 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid is equipped with all manner of standard safety equipment and airbags, including ESC, hill-assist control, standard rearview camera, and optional blind-spot detection system as well as rear parking sensors. 

Comparing the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid: Honda Accord Hybrid, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Toyota Camry Hybrid. 

Miranda Lightstone
Miranda Lightstone
Automotive expert
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