The 2020 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid enters its fourth model year with some much-needed technology enhancements. Available in a single trim, the Kia Optima Plug-in Hybrid features an all-electric range of 28 miles, with an improved total range of 630 miles. With nine added driver-assist safety systems and a spiced-up technology package, the new Optima Plug-In Hybrid provides consumers with a practical and technology-driven PHEV consideration.
What's New for 2020
A slew of enhancements and standard technology features have been added to the 2020 Optima Plug-In Hybrid, including standard wireless charging. Also leading the pack is the addition of the Kia Drive Wise suite of safety features as standard, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Choosing Your Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid
For EV shoppers who prefer simplicity with their auto buying experience, the 2020 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid is right up your alley. It's only available in one trim.
The Optima Plug-In Hybrid EX starts at $37,015, which includes the $925 destination charge.
The EX receives its hybrid power from a Full Parallel Hybrid System. It pairs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, gasoline-powered engine with a 50-kilowatt electric motor.
Combined, the hybrid powertrain returns 202 horsepower and 276 pound-feet of torque. The 9.8-kilowatt-hour lithium polymer battery can power the electric motor for 28 electric-only miles. While in electric-only motor configuration, it has a top speed of 74 miles per hour. The power supply is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive. The setup returns an EPA-estimated 41 miles per gallon combined, or 101 miles per gallon of gasoline equivalent (MPGe) combined.
Altogether, the Optima Plug-In Hybrid has a combined range of 630 miles, 20 more than last year’s model. Consumers will also appreciate the quick three-hour charge rate when plugged into a 240-volt (Level 2) power outlet. A 120-volt outlet (Level 1) regenerates the vehicle in nine hours.
The Optima Plug-In Hybrid rolls on 17-inch alloy wheels and is equipped with leather and heated front seats, a leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel, and a 12-way power driver seat with four-way lumbar support. Additionally, the Optima EV Plug-In Hybrid features dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights, push-button start, and a USB port.
Kia’s infotainment system is displayed on an 8-inch touchscreen. Navigation is standard, as is HD Radio, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, USB and AUX input jacks, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
There are three drive modes: Charging, Hybrid, and All-Electric. While in Charging mode, the vehicle uses the gasoline-powered engine while charging the electric battery. One of the more unique features is a Virtual Engine Sound System that produces the purr of a finely-tuned gasoline engine while running only on the electric motor.
For consumers looking to add a touch of flair, the EX Technology Package ($4,600) is available. It adds a panoramic sunroof, a 10-way power front passenger seat, ventilated front seats, ambient interior lighting, LED headlights with auto-leveling and low and high beam assist, LED fog lights, and LED interior lighting.
While the 2020 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid receives some much needed updates, it’s out of many hybrid shopper’s budgets – especially considering the necessary charging infrastructure. If you’re interested in a hybrid with similar options, you might want to look at the Kia Optima Hybrid, which knocks $6,780 from the Plug-In Hybrid's price tag.