2020 Kia Optima Hybrid Review

Take all that is good about the Kia Optima — smooth ride, comfortable interior, generous set of standard features — and combine it with more than 40 mpg, and you get the 2020 Kia Optima Hybrid. If you're considering a midsize sedan for short-range commutes and in-town driving, the Optima Hybrid merits a look.

The regular Optima's reputation is well-earned. It's sleek and looks great thanks to a guiding hand from one of Audi's former top designers. It's also loaded with features and has an infotainment system that is among the most user-friendly in the class. The Optima Hybrid amplifies these virtues by adding an impressive fuel economy of 42 mpg combined (40 city/45 highway).

True, those aren't the best numbers in the class. The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry hybrids do better, and do it without sacrificing much trunk space. The Optima Hybrid gives up 2.5 cubic feet of space to house its battery pack compared to its gas-only counterpart. On the other hand, the Optima Hybrid is dynamic and entertaining to drive, more so than some other midsize hybrid alternatives. It's a competitive option in a competitive class.