2010 LA Auto Show: Kia Optima Hybrid

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The green and gorgeous Kia Optima Hybrid

Kia chose the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show for the world premiere of the new Optima Hybrid, the Korean brand's first gas-electric model ever.

Similar to the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid , this green sedan combines a 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder engine with a 30-kilowatt electric motor and a compact, lightweight lithium-polymer battery pack. According to the company, the 209-horsepower hybrid powertrain achieves 37 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.

Unlike Toyota and Ford, which rely on a CVT for their hybrids, Kia opted for a 6-speed automatic transmission (same thing for the Sonata Hybrid).

Photo: Kia