The 2020 Kia Optima Hybrid offers much better fuel economy than its gasoline-powered sibling, but it lags behind other hybrid competitors. Still, it should be on the list of any hybrid sedan shopper because of its long list of standard equipment and safety features.
What's New for 2020
Now entering its fourth model year, the Kia Optima Hybrid gains several new standard features for the 2020 model year, including wireless charging, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, 17-inch wheels, and an 8-inch rearview monitor.
Choosing Your Kia Optima Hybrid
The 2020 Kia Optima Hybrid is only available in single trim level. The Optima Hybrid EX is priced at $30,235, which includes a $925 destination fee.
It's powered by a 2.0-liter gas engine alongside an electric motor. This setup jointly produces 192 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque, while a six-speed automatic transmission supplies power to the front wheels. The Optima Hybrid achieves an EPA-estimated 40 miles per gallon city, 45 mpg highway, and 42 combined.
For the 2020 model year, the Optima Hybrid has received a raft of specification upgrades. It’s distinguished externally by new 17-inch alloy wheels, while a larger 8-inch rearview monitor also provides parking assistance. Cabin enhancements include wireless smartphone charging and an auto-dimming rearview mirror, while Kia’s Microsoft-powered UVO media controller is fitted for the first time. This voice-activated system operates various infotainment options and supports remote climate control and long distance lock/unlock functionality. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are integrated into the 8-inch touchscreen, which powers a stereo with a subwoofer and surround speakers.
Other standard specifications include automatic windshield defogging, power adjustable heated outside mirrors and automatic lights, push button start, and remote keyless entry. The seats are clad in leather and heated up front, with 10-way power adjustment and two-way power lumbar support for the driver.
The Optima Hybrid also comes standard with a long list of safety features that includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a driver attention monitor, and park assist.
The only significant option for the Optima Hybrid is the Technology Package ($4,510), which bundles together several features. The stereo is upgraded to a Harman Kardon unit with 10 speakers, while the vehicle is fitted with a panoramic sunroof with a power sunshade. The steering wheel is heated, the front seats are ventilated, the driver’s seat gains 12-way power adjustment, four-way lumbar support, and memory functionality, and the passenger seat receives 10-way power adjustment and two-way lumbar. It equips the hybrid with LED headlights with auto-leveling, low and high beam assist, and LED front fog lights. The interior also gains sound-absorbing front windows, overhead LED lighting, and ambient lighting with variable colors.
The 2020 Kia Optima Hybrid isn't the cheapest hybrid sedan nor the most fuel efficient, but it does come well equipped, especially in the safety department. The Technology Package offers many welcome upgrades, but it increases the total cost by nearly 15%, and most buyers will be able to live without it.