2017 Kia Optima Hybrid Review
2017 Kia Optima Hybrid Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
byCameron Rogers
Manager, News
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).
Pros
- Quiet interior around town and on the highway
- Available 60/40-split rear seats increase the cargo area
- Offers plenty of available safety and luxury features
Cons
- Some rival sedans get better fuel economy
- Rear headroom is limited by the sloping roofline
What’s new
The Kia Optima Hybrid has been completely redesigned for 2017.
Vehicle overview
The fully redesigned 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid improves upon its predecessor in many ways. You'll like the Optima's easy-driving nature and the number of features you get for your money. Fuel economy isn't tops, but it's good enough to keep this hybrid right in the mix.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid Premium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$104/mo for Optima Hybrid Premium
Optima Hybrid Premium
vs
$181/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
The Optima midsize sedan is one of Kia's most popular cars, and it underwent a full overhaul last year. But some things were put on the backburner. In this case, it was the lower-volume hybrid version. Kia sold a 2016 hybrid model, but it was based on the outgoing Optima. That all changed with the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid.
In addition to the improvements that the redesigned Optima brought (such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality and several new advanced safety systems), the Optima Hybrid gets a new, more fuel-efficient powertrain. It develops a bit less horsepower and slightly more torque than last year, but fuel economy estimates have jumped as a result. The new Optima Hybrid is rated at 42 mpg combined; the old one was rated at 36 or 37 mpg, depending on the version. That's still a bit behind the hybrid segment leaders, but overall the Optima's got enough going for it to make it a satisfying choice.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
The fully redesigned 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid improves upon its predecessor in many ways. You'll like the Optima's easy-driving nature and the number of features you get for your money. Fuel economy isn't tops, but it's good enough to keep this hybrid right in the mix.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions, although trim levels share many aspects. Though we have not fully tested the new Optima Hybrid yet, we can glean some insight by relating our opinions from our full test of the 2016 Kia Optima LX Turbo (1.6L 4-cyl. turbo; 7-speed dual-clutch automatic). The two cars have different engines, but many of our other opinions still apply to the hybrid.
Driving
Though we haven't driven the 2017 Optima Hybrid yet, we have tested the mechanically related Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. We expect the Optima will pull away smoothly from a stop thanks to initial electric-only power. Outright performance and handling, however, are likely to be a bit disappointing.
Comfort
The regular Optima offers a comfortable ride overall, and we expect the same for the Hybrid. But the seats are less than ideal. There's a lack of side bolstering in the Optima's front seats, and those in the back don't offer enough thigh support.
Interior
There isn't a lot of visual excitement inside the 2017 Optima Hybrid, but it is smartly designed for function. The quality of materials and available features make you feel as if you're getting just a bit more for your money. The only drawback is mediocre rear visibility.
Ease of use
The 2017 Optima gets high marks for its easy-to-use infotainment system and readable physical buttons that are logically placed. The primary controls are all within reach, and there's no guesswork with buttons that are a bit out of the way.
Getting in/getting out
Tall door openings free from obstructions allow passengers to access their seats with no more effort than they'd expend in other sedans. The doors are adequately short in length to provide access in tight parking spots.
Roominess
The front seats have plenty of space for larger passengers, and the range of adjustments will cover short and tall occupants. The rear outboard seats benefit from an abundance of legroom, but headroom is merely adequate for the average adult.
Visibility
The Optima's cabin feels big and airy thanks to large windows and narrow roof pillars, but the high rear decklid and rear seat headrests obscure the rearward view. The standard rearview camera and optional parking sensors help reduce the blind spot.
Quality
Plenty of plastic is used throughout the interior, but it's sturdy and attractively grained. Creaks and squeaks are nonexistent, and the car feels as solid as any other sedan in the class.
Utility
With 13.4 cubic feet of storage, the trunk is slightly above the class average for a midsize hybrid sedan. It gains extra points for the 60/40-split rear seats in the EX model, though the opening is on the small side. Inside, there's plenty of space for personal items with many bins and pockets.
Technology
Kudos to Kia for an easy-to-use infotainment system with high-quality graphics and plenty of redundant physical buttons so you don't get lost in the menus. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are appreciated.
Audio & navigation
Like Kia itself, the touchscreen interface prefers function to form. There's nothing flashy; it's just easy to use and competent. The navigation system is fine, but we wish it tried to predict street and city names in the input screens.
Driver aids
Most of the latest driver safety aids, such as lane departure warning and forward collision warning, are optional on the Optima. A rearview camera is standard.
Which Optima Hybrid does Edmunds recommend?
The base Premium won't disappoint with its wealth of standard features, but we think upgrading to the EX is well worth the cost. For one, it includes the Premium's Convenience package (with driver assist aids and quieter front windows, for starters). The EX also adds features such as heated front seats, leather and navigation. Most important, the EX's rear bench can be folded down to increase the size of the cargo area, a nifty feature that some other hybrid sedans don't offer.
2017 Kia Optima Hybrid models
The front-wheel-drive 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid is well-equipped no matter which version you choose. The base Premium comes with dual-zone climate control, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and keyless entry and ignition. The Premium's Convenience package offers a good value for the extra features you get, while the EX takes that and adds goodies such as leather upholstery and a kicking Harman Kardon sound system. An electric motor and 2.0-liter engine combine to produce 192 hp. Most hybrids have a continuously variable transmission, but the Optima Hybrid sticks with a six-speed automatic transmission for a more traditional shifting feel.
The base Premium trim comes with many standard features, including 16-inch wheels, heated mirrors, a rearview camera, keyless entry and ignition, a driver information display, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, a 7-inch touchscreen, and a six-speaker sound system with satellite radio.
The available Convenience package adds power-folding mirrors, laminated (i.e., quieter) front windows, a power driver seat, driver-seat memory settings, rear air vents, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors and extra USB ports.
The EX has the Convenience package as standard (minus the parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring) and adds 17-inch wheels, LED daytime running lights, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, leather upholstery, 60/40-split folding rear seats, an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with HD radio.
You can't get a more luxurious Optima Hybrid than the EX equipped with the Technology package, which adds LED adaptive headlights, automatic high-beam control, a panoramic sunroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, adaptive cruise control, a power passenger seat, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, rear side-window sunshades, lane departure warning, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring and rear parking sensors.
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid.
5 star(40%)
4 star(20%)
3 star(0%)
2 star(20%)
1 star(20%)
10 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
Best PHEV
Chris Doan, 07/03/2017
2017 Kia Optima Hybrid EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
I've owned BMW, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz in the lasts 10 years and have been shopping around for a PHEV for months. I was considering and test driving the Ford Fusion Energi, Chevy Volt, Totoyta Prius, Nissan Leaf, BMW i3, Huyndai Sonota Hybrid, Tesla Model S but finally traded in my Mercedes for a KIA Optima EX PHEV for its styling, infotaiment system, technologies, range, price/value … ratio, long warranty. This car met all my expectations: stylish, smooth/quiet/comfortable interior, reasonable EV range. It did deliver the 29 all EV range as advertised. I've installed a 240V outlet and used an inexpensive level 2 charger I bought from Amazon.com for less than $250, it charged the car from empty to full battery in less than 3 hours. Well done KIA!
5 out of 5 stars
Best Value Hybrid
Reginald Gayden, 04/16/2018
2017 Kia Optima Hybrid Premium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
Bought 2017 Optima Hybrid in November 17. It was the only Hybrid Optima on the lot out of dozens of gas ones. I had been comparing Accord, Camry, and Malibu Hybrids and read the Optima Hybrid got 46 mpg on the hwy. That was only 2 or 3 miles per gallon less than the best of them so I did some pricing. My choice was for the 26,800 premium with pretty standard features, good radio with … Android Audio and SiriusXM, dual zone climate control, tilt, cruise control,pwr windows and Door locks. At the time of purchase, there was a $5,000 rebate offered. I could not believe it. All this car for less than a Prius prime. I have driven it to over 18k miles in 6 months after taking several trips and I really enjoy and appreciate this car. My first trip was from Phoenix to Vegas. Did it on one tank of gas. The car went 828 miles. Very impressive! Really like having a 6 speed transmission instead of a CVT. Driven properly there are days when it averages 60 to 61 mpg city hwy mix. It can go up to 80mph in electric mode. 10 year 100 k warranty and a 5star safety rating I think the value is unbeatable.
2 out of 5 stars
On first name basis with device department
Shannon Gudvangen, 01/25/2020
2017 Kia Optima Hybrid EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
My car has spent more time at the dealership than at home. I had to bring it in before it even hit 200 miles. Now it's at 60,000 miles and it's been at the dealership more than 20 times and the manager of the service department knows my name when I walk in the door. One thing after another went out with the hybrid system. Apparently it has 4 air flaps and all if them had to be … replaced. It gets pretty good gas mileage when we can actually drive it. I am very disappointed with this vehicle.
5 out of 5 stars
Great value and quite luxurious
P Sorensen, 01/27/2018
2017 Kia Optima Hybrid EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
You get a lot for your money and great performance. We feel like this Has been a great buy for us.
2017 Optima Hybrid Highlights
Premium
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $25,995 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Hybrid |
Combined MPG | 42 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $104/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 13.4 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Optima Hybrid models:
- Blind-Spot Detection System
- Illuminates a light on either of the Optima's side mirrors when a vehicle enters its blind spot.
- Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Sounds a warning if the Optima detects an imminent front collision, and brakes automatically engage to lessen or mitigate the impact.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Sounds a warning if a vehicle is approaching the Optima from the side while it is traveling in reverse.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover5 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover9.8%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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