The hybrid, Kia's first, was engineered primarily with the U.S. market in mind and will produce as much as 40 mpg in freeway driving. Kia said Wednesday that the Optima will go on sale early next year. Pricing will be released later.
The Optima relies on a full parallel hybrid system, with acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in 9.2 seconds, a top speed of 121 mph and a 41 percent improvement in fuel economy compared with a regular Optima, Kia says.
The Optima's 2.4-liter engine is paired with a small electric motor and drives the front wheels with a six-speed automatic transmission.
A special clutch is fitted between the engine and motor, enabling the gasoline engine to be decoupled from the powertrain. The configuration allows the Optima to operate in full electric-drive mode from a standstill up to 62 mph while producing zero emissions.
The Optima Hybrid is packed with a lithium polymer battery developed with supplier LG Chem of South Korea.
The power and energy density of the battery permitted Kia engineers to create a lighter and more compact power pack--with 34 kilowatts of output.
It is the same battery and powertrain setup used in the new Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.
On the inside, the Optima Hybrid's instrument panel has an Eco Guide to promote economical driving.
Kia says standard features will include six-way adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support, illuminated vanity mirrors, a trip computer and a satellite-based navigation and CD/audio system.
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