Automobiles Review

Tag: Optima Hybrid

  • Kia Releases More Details for the 2016 Optima Hybrid Model

    2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid continues what has started back with the 2015 model: high quality vehicle with distinctive design, premium features and sweet quality to price ratio. And now the 2016 model comes with further improved fuel efficiency system via the restyled fuel-sipping hybrid engine.

    The sweetie is available in two neatly done trim levels: Hybrid and Hybrid EX. The 2016 Hybrid benefits from a 2.4-liter unit that works in perfect harmony with the 47hp (34kW) and produces a total of 199hp (146kW) and 235 lb-ft. of torque. And with addition of the six-speed smooth transmission the Hybrid really has a lot to demonstrate. Despite its high amount of power, Optima Hybrid offers EPA-estimated 36 MPG in the city, 40 MPG on the highway and 38 MPG combined.

    The Hybrid also offers neat exterior components that further enhance the beauty and aerodynamics. The vehicle comes with additional vents on the front bumper to increase airflow and reduce drag. And the low rolling resistance tires are mounted to 16-inch alloy wheels or you can get the super low rolling resistance tires, mounted on 17-inch wheels. The front grille is also restyled. It now comes with Hybrid-exclusive fender badges and some of the components make use of aluminum instead of steel. Cool, right?

    SEE ALSO: Kia Goes Bad For SEMA with Forte Koup Mud Bogger

    Furthermore, both trim levels are geared with premium standard features, but both of them offer and optional additions, just in case customers do want more from the vehicle. The Hybrid Convenience Package, for example, adds a 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat, UVO eServices with rear-camera display, LED front positioning headlights and acoustic laminated windshield. The Hybrid EX can be further geared with Technology Package that offers Panoramic sunroof, gloss black B-pillars, Blind-Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert ad Back-up Warning System.

    Furthermore, the models are geared with advanced safety features. Both trim levels offer high levels of standard, thanks to the driver and passenger improved front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, four-wheel Antilock Brake System, Vehicle Stability Management, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control System and Hill Start Assist Control.

    2016 Kia Optima
    2016 Kia Optima
    2016 Kia Optima
    2016 Kia Optima
    2016 Kia Optima
    2016 Kia Optima

    Source: Kia

     

  • 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid Delivers Enhanced Efficiency

    2013-Kia-Optima-Hybrid-THUMB2013 Kia Optima Hybrid is the updated version of the popular vehicle and includes a more performance-driven and fuel-efficient powertrain as well as more cargo space and premium features.

    To be more precise, the powertrain refinements are made to enhance smoothness and drivability, featuring a more robust 47 hp (35 kW) electric traction motor, stronger Hybrid Starter Generator (HSG) and more powerful 47 kW Lithium Polymer battery.

    The car delivers 199 horsepower (147 kW) and has combined 318 Nm (235 lb-ft) of torque. The Optima Hybrid is now being offered in two trim levels – base and EX. The firs one achieves an EPA estimated 36 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 38 mpg combined, while the second trim model delivers an EPA estimated 35/39/371.

    What also has been enhanced here is that the new Kia model has greater trunk space. Moreover, the EX model comes with additional equipment: navigation with back-up camera, an 8-speaker Infinity audio system, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats and 17-inch wheels to the already long list of amenities.

    Furthermore, the model is lighter and aerodynamically enhanced. It runs on 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels, for the base and the EX respectively, and has reduced weight and drag. To be more precise, the enhanced aerodynamics is gained via the Optima Hybrid’s lowered ride height, full belly pan and rear spoiler.

    In addition, what also differentiates the model are the satin finished front grille surround and trim on the lower front fascia and side sills, and unique front and rear lighting. In addition, the revised Kia name badge is applied to the hood, trunk lid, and steering wheel.

    2013 Optima Hybrid includes an impressive array of standard safety equipment: driver and passenger advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, four-wheel Antilock Brake System (ABS), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Traction Control System (TCS) and Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) also come standard on all models.

    2013 Kia Optima Hybrid
    2013 Kia Optima Hybrid
    2013 Kia Optima Hybrid
    2013 Kia Optima Hybrid
    2013 Kia Optima Hybrid
    2013 Kia Optima Hybrid
    2013 Kia Optima Hybrid

    Source: Kia

  • Kia Optima Hybrid Project Superman Shown in Chicago

    Kia-Optima-Hybrid-Project-Superman-THUBKia Optima Hybrid Project Superman is a result of the creative efforts of three companies: Kia, DC Entertainment and Super Streetmagazine. The head-turning Optima Hybrid was just unveiled and is created in order to signal the continuation of a 10-month, eight-vehicle-partnership between Kia and DC Entertainment. Those eight vehicles are going to be based on the iconic characters that make up the Justice League – Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg.

    The final vehicle will be mixture of all seven Super Heroes in one. Justice League-inspired Kia vehicles serve as a force for good in the world by raising awareness of DC Entertainment’s “We Can Be Heroes” giving campaign. The latter is a relief effort to bring help and hope to people affected by drought and famine in the Horn of Africa.

    This one-of-a-kind Superman inspired Kia represents the strength and fortitude of the world’s most iconic Super Hero. In order to do that, the car was widened with custom fenders, which makes it now even more muscular. In addition it includes an adjustable suspension system that can raise and lower the vehicle with the push of a button.

    The exterior color-theme of the vehicle strikes immediately: a stylized color scheme on the hood spotlights Superman’s unmistakable chest emblem while an eye-catching red paint design extends to the trunk, evoking the look of his crimson cape. The beveled front grille is there to remind us of Superman’s belt, and the red headlights glow with the same intensity of his heat vision.

    Next, the interior of this Optima is wrapped in custom materials chosen for their unique appearance and texture. Again they reflect Superman’s impenetrable battle armor. The iconic “S” shield is integrated into the seats and steering wheel to give it the right heroic touch.

    As Kia’s sales have grown, so has the company’s role as a responsible corporate citizen, and the Superman-themed Optima furthers those efforts with two video screens in the front-seat headrests that will raise awareness about the worst hunger crisis in 60 years by featuring a custom “We Can Be Heroes” video that demonstrates how one small act can make anyone a hero.

    Kia Optima Hybrid Project Superman
    Kia Optima Hybrid Project Superman
    Kia Optima Hybrid Project Superman

    Source: Kia

  • Kia at 2011 SEMA Show

    Kia will exhibit several six outrageous sports-themed vehicles in Las Vegas at the 2011 SEMA Show.

    This year’s show cars were inspired by Kia’s growing sports marketing portfolio that includes basketball, women’s golf, motor sports and more.  Two were built by the world famous West Coast Customs with additional vehicles conceived and built in-partnership with the popular lifestyle magazine, Antenna, as well as GoGoGear.com and Kia’s U.S. racing partner, Kinetic Motorsports.

    “Kia is experiencing unprecedented growth and momentum and we’re bringing our most exciting range of show cars ever to this year’s SEMA Show, including several variations on the stylish all-new 2012 Rio 5-door and the fuel-efficient and technology-laden Optima Hybrid,” commented Michael Sprague, Vice President, Marketing & Communications, Kia Motors America.

    “Our involvement in the world of sports has dramatically increased awareness and perception of the Kia brand, and together with some high-profile partners we have created a line-up of fun and eye-catching vehicles with unique back stories and plenty of personality.”, he added.

    “Slam Dunk” Blake Griffin Optima Hybrid is created by West Coast Customs (WCC). They have created a basketball-themed Optima Hybrid that adds some hardwood flair to Kia’s first-ever hybrid in the U.S.

    “Hole-In-One” Michelle Wie Soul is also built by West Coast Customs. It was inspired by Michelle Wie, Kia’s official golf ambassador and one of the most recognisable young athletes around the world.

    “Retro Surf” Rio 5-Door is developed by Kia and Antenna. It features lowered and modified suspension set-up for sportier handling, and the aggressive exterior stance is accentuated by eye-grabbing 17” three-piece gold wheels.

    “Hat Trick” Forte 5-Door is created by Antenna. The Hat Trick Forte 5-door can handle it all with a custom hockey stick holder that stretches from the trunk through the center of the vehicle into the cabin.

    Slam Dunk Blake Griffin Kia Optima Hybrid
    Slam Dunk Blake Griffin Kia Optima Hybrid
    Hat Trick Kia Forte 5-door
    Hole In One Michelle Wie Kia Soul
    Retro Surf Kia Rio 5-door
    Slam Dunk Blake Griffin Kia Optima Hybrid

    Source: Kia

  • 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid

    Kia has a lot of experience producing alternate fuel vehicles. The manufacturer has produced its first electric vehicle (EV) – based on the Besta van – as long ago as 1986, and an electric version of the Sportage in 1999.

    At the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show, Kia revealed a petrol-electric hybrid version of the new Optima saloon, which is now on sale in both the USA and Korea. It is powered by a a 2.4-litre petrol engine and a 30kW (48 PS) electric motor driving through a hybrid-specific six-speed automatic gearbox.  The combined power is 206PS (151 kW) 263Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque.

    Optima Hybrid has lithium-ion polymer battery which is 30% lighter than the nickel-metal hydride systems in rivals, but has a higher energy density. It can accelerate to more than 60mph (96 km/h) on battery power alone.

    Kia Optima Hybrid returns up to 44mpg – 6.4 litres per 100 km in city and 47mpg – 6.0 litres per 100 km on the highway. There are no apparent features that differentiate it from the Kia Optima except for a badge, different wheel discs and special Light Platinum Graphite paint color.

    Four-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist System (BAS) and Hill Assist Control (HAC) are also standard.

    2012 Kia Optima Hybrid is priced at $26 500.

    2012 Kia Optima Hybrid
    2012 Kia Optima Hybrid
    2012 Kia Optima Hybrid
    2012 Kia Optima Hybrid

    Source: Kia