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Image credits: © Kia.

MSRP: $25,700-26,500
Invoice: $25,100-24,760

2012 Kia Optima Hybrid news, pictures, and information

Brand's First Hybrid in the U.S. Returns with Class-Leading Fuel Efficiency, Advanced Technology and Eye-Catching Style

• Optima Hybrid is packed wîth modern technologies and achieves outstanding fuel economy of up to 40 miles per gallon

• Already recognized as a stylish choice for discerning eco-conscious consumers, the 2012 model ups the ante wîth an even more compelling package at the same great value


IRVINE, Calif., September 26, 2011 - Kia Motors America (KMA) is one of the automotive 's current fuel economy leaders, and that position was strengthened wîth the launch of the 2011 Optima Hybrid, the brand's first hybrid vehicle in the Ú.S. Designed to appeal to consumers lòòking for a stylish and well-appointed sedan that does not sacrifice style, comfort, performance or value for fuel efficiency, the Optima Hybrid offers the same combination of head-turning design and modern amenities that earned critical and consumer acclaim for the Optima following its debut, and adds a more fuel-efficient drivetrain and state-of-the-art lithium-polymer battery pack to deliver up to 35 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and a class-leading 40 mpg2 on the highway.

Available in two configurations – base model or wîth an advanced Hybrid Premium and Technology Package – all Optima Hybrids offer several features, including distinctive designs for the front grille and headlamps and 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, heated outside mirrors, front and rear lower bumpers and side sills and LED tail lamp design. For 2012 the Optima Hybrid builds on an already solid platform wîth the addition of HD Radio and power folding outside mirrors to the Hybrid Premium and Technology Package.

State-of-the-art Hybrid Powertrain
All 2012 Optima Hybrid models feature a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain wîth a 2.4-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle gas engine that produces 166 horsepower connected by a wet clutch to an Interior Permanent Magnet (IPM) synchronous electric motor producing 40 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque up to 1,400 rpm (in full-electric mode only). The advanced powertrain, mated to an efficient six-speed automatic transmission, delivers 35 miles per gallon in the city and up to a class-leading 40 miles per gallon on the highway. The full parallel hybrid system can be driven in zero emission, full-electric drive mode at speeds up to 62 miles per hour or in blended gas-electric mode at any speed. When the car comes to a stop and the electrical load is low, the engine shuts off to completely eliminate idle fuel consumption and emissions.

Vital Stats
Engine : 2.4 L., 4-cylinder
Power: 166 hp
Torque: 154 ft-lbs

Engine : 2.4 L., 4-cylinder
Power: 200 hp
Torque: 186 ft-lbs

6-speed Automatic
To power the electric motor, the Optima Hybrid leverages a state-of-the-art, air-cooled 270V lithium-polymer (Li-PB) battery. Developed in partnership wîth LG Chem, Li-PB chemistry offers an optimum balance of power delivery, energy density, reliability and thermal stability. Compared to commonly used nickel metal hydride systems, Kia's Li-PB system is 20-30 percent lighter, occupies 40 percent less volume, is 10 percent more efficient, offers two times the power density, and holds a charge 25 percent longer than many comparable competitor systems. At only 95 pounds, the battery system is extremely durable wîth warranty coverage for up to 10 years or 150,000 miles.


Sleek and Aerodynamic Exterior
Maintaining the performance-oriented yet refined aesthetic of its non-hybrid siblings, the Optima Hybrid's world-class design combines a sleek silhouette and aggressive stance wîth sculpted elements that evoke passion and communicate the Kia Motors' philosophy of creating stylish and fun-to-drive vehicles. In keeping wîth Kia's visual motif, the Optima Hybrid proudly features a unique hybrid-specific black gloss and chrome version of the brand's signature tabbed front grille. Five millimeters lower than the non-hybrid Optima, the vehicle's coupe-like profile is accentuated by a sweeping chrome arc that flows seamlessly from the A through the C pillars, a distinctive design element that visually lowers the car while enhancing its proportions. Optima Hybrid's roofline connects wîth its pronounced shoulder line that leads to its sculpted flanks and extended wheelbase. Boldly flared wheel arches and a raked cabin create a graceful and muscular stance.

Every Optima Hybrid offers several enhancements to its exterior to improve aerodynamics, including a unique headlamp design that helps to channel air around the vehicle, rear spoiler, smooth underfloor panels that provide improved airflow under the vehicle, and smoother rear fascias (sides). The use of an active air flap system in the front grille helps to reduce drag by automatically opening or closing based on vehicle speed, engine temperature, and airflow in the front of the car. A lower ride height (five mm lower) and unique side mirror design also contribute to the Optima Hybrid's improved aerodynamic profile. Combined, all aerodynamic updates help the hybrid model achieve a 0.26 drag coefficient – a 10-percent improvement over non-hybrid models.

Every 2012 Optima Hybrid comes well equipped wîth numerous standard features, including hybrid-specific lightweight 16-inch alloy wheels, SX trim-inspired front and rear lower bumpers and side sills, unique LED tail light design, rear lip spoiler, single hidden exhaust tip, and a Virtual Engine Sound System (VESS) that plays a pre-recorded engine sound during electric-only operation up to 12 miles per hour to help notify people outside the vehicle that it is approaching.

When equipped wîth the Premium Technology Package, 17-inch alloy wheels wîth low-rolling-resistance tires, power folding outside mirrors, and HID headlamps wîth auto leveling are added.

High-tech and Modern Interior
Like all Optima models, the Optima Hybrid offers sleek modern lines and numerous well-positioned features inside the cabin and exudes a sporty, yet efficient layout designed wîth the eco-conscious driver in mind. From the instrument panel that's contoured toward the driver to create a cockpit-like feel to the precise gauges and engaging technology, the Optima Hybrid's interior provides a unique driver-centric experience without sacrificing passenger comfort or roominess.

The Optima Hybrid adds to the extensive list of standard convenience features and stylish appointments found on the well-equipped Optima LX A/T trim, wîth equipment including an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, electric dual zone automatic temperature control wîth rear vents, push-button start wîth Smart Key, Supervision™ meter cluster wîth unique LCD display for hybrid information, leather-wrapped §teering wheel and shift knob, one-touch automatic up/down on front windows, chrome interior door handles, glove box illumination, rear reading lamps, and fixed rear seats wîth ski pass-through, a feature not found on most hybrid midsize sedan competitors. The Optima Hybrid's air conditioning system uses an electric compressor, reducing parasitic losses common in belt-driven systems and allowing cool air to flow even wîth the engine off in 'idle-stop' mode.

The Optima Hybrid was the first Kia vehicle to offer the company's proprietary ÚVO powered by Microsoft®3 voice-activated infotainment system, which is paired wîth the AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system wîth SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio capabilities wîth three months complimentary service4, back-up camera, auxiliary and ÚSB audio input jacks for connecting wîth MP3 players and Bluetooth®5 wireless connectivity wîth §teering wheel-mounted controls.

Consumers who select the Optima Hybrid wîth the available Hybrid Premium and Technology Package will enjoy additional comfort and convenience features, including a panoramic sunroof, unique 17-inch alloy wheels, a four-way power adjustable front passenger seat, driver's seat memory, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats and §teering wheel, HID head lights wîth automatic leveling, leatherette-wrapped center fascia, auto-dimming rear-view mirror wîth Homelink®6 and compass, a navigation system wîth back-up camera and SiriusXM Traffic™7, and an eight-speaker Infinity®8 audio system (these available features replace the ÚVO system), and power folding outside mirrors.

Building on a Dynamic Platform
The Optima's distinctive style and sporting demeanor is evident from its sheet metal down to its platform. Optima's low, aerodynamic and powerful stance is assisted through its overall length of 190.7 – an increase of 1.7 inches over the previous generation model – overall width of 72.1 inches and wheelbase of 110 inches and has a low ground clearance of 5.1 inches. The midsize sedan's lightweight design uses high-tensile-strength steel to enhance structural strength while also achieving high torsional stiffness, benefiting handling, ride quality and refinement. Additional measures to help improve noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities are fitted throughout the Optima.

The Optima Hybrid enhances the existing platform wîth features designed to reduce weight and improve efficiency. Lighter and more aerodynamic 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels are utilized to reduce weight and drag while low-rolling-resistance tires are used to lower the amount of friction generated when driving, which decreases fuel consumption. The extensive use of aluminum instead of steel for the lower front and rear control arms, tie rod ends, and rear knuckles helps contribute to the weight reduction of the Optima Hybrid.

Built on a unibody frame, the front-wheel-drive Optima Hybrid utilizes independent front and rear suspension systems. MacPherson struts are used in the front wîth a multi-link layout in the rear and are both joined wîth coil springs and front anti-roll bars to engage drivers wîth responsive handling and provide the utmost comfort whether the road is smooth or less than ideal.

Standard Kia Safety Features
The 2012 Optima Hybrid is equipped wîth a high level of standard safety features. All trims come outfitted wîth driver and passenger advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, first and second row side curtain airbags, front active headrests, side-impact door beams, height-adjustable front seatbelts wîth pre-tensioners, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). A four-wheel Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), a Traction Control System (TCS), a Brake Assist System (BAS) and Hill Assist Control (HAC) also are standard.

An advanced Battery Management System (BMS) on the Optima Hybrid constantly monitors the hybrid battery and cuts output if an abnormality is detected.

Industry-Leading Warranty
The 2012 Optima Hybrid is covered by Kia's comprehensive warranty program9, which offers consumer protection at an exceptional value. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the comprehensive vehicle coverage.

Design-Led Transformation and Product Line
Kia Motors has undergone a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important §egmènts at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand's continued gains in Ú.S. market share. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and brand growth through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and new technology. Kia's commitment to the Ú.S. market is represented by its Ú.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – which is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and added the critically acclaimed Optima midsize sedan to its production line in September. Kia's model year 2012 vehicle line includes the Sorento CÚV, Sportage compact CÚV, Optima midsize sedan, Optima Hybrid, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

Source - Kia
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Arrow Right 2012 Kia models
Kia Forte
Kia Forte 5 Door
Kia Forte Koup
Kia Grand VQ-R
Kia K9
Kia Optima
Kia Picanto
Kia Ray
Kia Rio
Kia Rio 3-Door
Kia Rio5
Kia Sedona
Kia Sorento
Kia Soul
Kia Sportage
2012 Kia Concepts
Kia GT Concept
Kia Trackster Concept

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Audi A4($27,270-30,850)
Buick LaCrosse($26,495-33,265)
Buick Regal GS($26,245-28,745)
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Dodge Avenger R/T :
Dodge Charger($25,495-45,795)
Dodge Charger Pursuit($25,495-45,795)
Ford Fusion Hybrid($26,280-26,280)
Ford Taurus($26,600-39,200)
Honda Civic Hybrid :
Toyota Highlander Hybrid($28,090-43,795)
Toyota Prius($24,000-39,525)
Volkswagen CC($27,100-39,800)
 
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Kia: 2011-2020
Similar Automakers
Kia History
Other models by Kia
Manufacturer Website

Kia
Monthly Sales FiguresVolume
April 201347,556 
March 201349,125 
February 201341,505 
January 201336,302 
December 201239,178 
November 201241,055 
October 201242,452 
September 201248,105 
August 201250,028 
July 201248,074 
June 201251,326 
May 201251,771 
(More Details)

 
Amanti
Borrego
Optima
Picanto
Rio
Rondo
Sedona
Sephia
Sorento
Soul
Spectra
Sportage

Image Left 2011 OptimaImage Left 2011 Optima HybridImage Left 2011 Optima Turbo SX2013 Optima Image Right2013 Batman-Inspired Optima Concept Image Right2013 Optima Superman-Inspired Image Right
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