2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid Review
Price Range: $15,998 - $17,590
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by Dan Frio
Pros
- Roomy interior and quiet cabin, whether on the avenue or highway
- Offers better all-electric range than most other top competitors
- Feature-packed and easy-to-use infotainment interface
Cons
- Just 10 cubic feet of cargo space, less than hatchback competitors
- Rear headroom is limited by sloping roofline
What’s new
The 2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid is an all-new model based on the redesigned Optima Hybrid.
Vehicle overview
Along with the introduction of a redesigned Optima Hybrid model, Kia adds plug-in recharging to its family sedan lineup with the 2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid. The regular Optima Hybrid offers high fuel economy, comfortable road manners, and a wealth of standard features and available options. The Plug-In adds to that with the ability to drive short distances on pure electric power.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
8 listings
- $6,999great price$2,709 below market
- 114,774 miles
- 186 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Keyless Entry/Start
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Located in Jamesburg, NJ
This 2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid Can Be Yours Call Us Now !! THE CAR RUNS AND DRIVES FINE NO MECHANICAL ISSUES LEATHER INTERIOR HEATED SEATS PUSH T...
- Vehicle History:
- 2 accidents, 3 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- Features and Specs:
- 40 Combined MPG (N/A City/N/A Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- KNAGV4LD1H5015205
- Stock:
- 015205
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 01-11-2026
- $8,995fair price$1,380 below market
- 122,005 miles
- 169 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Chesapeake, VA
- Vehicle History:
- 1 accident, 2 owners, personal use only
- Features and Specs:
- 40 Combined MPG (N/A City/N/A Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- KNAGV4LD4H5009074
- Stock:
- 009074
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
The main difference between the two is the Optima Plug-In Hybrid's bigger battery pack and more powerful electric motor. The battery is larger than the standard hybrid's and can be recharged from a standard household electrical outlet or a high-current charging station. Doing so gives the plug-in model the ability to travel up to 29 miles in all-electric mode. After you've used up that power, the Plug-In switches to regular hybrid operation. The EPA estimates fuel economy of 40 mpg combined (38 city/43 highway). That's a bit below average but still likely good enough for shoppers looking to minimize their reliance on gasoline.
In addition to its powertrain appeal, the Optima Plug-In Hybrid includes everything we've come to like about the standard Optima sedan, including a roomy interior, a comfortable ride, and robust infotainment and connected technology. We're still not sold on the Optima's bland interior or the mediocre feel of its materials, however — unfortunate concessions to the Optima's otherwise exceptional value proposition. Still, the Optima Plug-In Hybrid's blend of rechargeable propulsion and midsize appeal makes it a solid pick for a family or commuter sedan.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
With smooth road manners and a wealth of features and options, the 2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid is a smart choice for minimizing gasoline reliance. The plug-in Optima can travel up to 29 miles on its battery's electric charge before switching to regular hybrid operation.
Trim tested
Edmunds has not yet driven any version of the 2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid, but we have considerable experience with the regular Optima. Those findings, specifically on comfort and interior quality, remain broadly applicable to this model. We've also sampled the Optima's mechanical doppelganger, the Hyundai Sonata Plug-In. Otherwise, the following is our first take on what's significant about it and what you can expect.
Driving
We haven't yet driven the Optima Plug-In Hybrid, but the Hyundai Sonata Plug-In accelerates to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds, average for a hybrid sedan. Expect a similar time here. We prefer the six-speed automatic transmission's shift feel over the CVTs that are more common to hybrids.
Comfort
Both the regular Optima sedan and Sonata Plug-In Hybrid deliver a smooth ride on all manner of pavement, and the cabin is quiet at highway speeds. We're not as thrilled with the seats, though.
Seat comfort
Heated front seats are standard; ventilated seats (and heated rears) are options. The front seats are roomy but lack lateral side bolstering. The rear seats are also spacious, but the low-mounted cushion may lack support for average-size adults.
Ride comfort
The regular Optima sedan absorbs small, high-frequency bumps pretty well for an overall smooth ride. Larger undulations cause some jostling, but not significantly more compared to rivals in this class. The Plug-In Hybrid's ride quality should not be that different despite the different powertrain.
Interior
The Optima's interior, regardless of model or trim, isn't an especially exciting visual feast. That said, it serves function well. The feature set makes you feel as if you're getting a lot more for your money, although the quality of materials feels a bit mediocre.
Ease of use
We give the Optima 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 little difficulty. 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 only adequate for adults of average height.
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 the texture is visually appealing. The car feels as solid as any other sedan in the class.
Utility
The Optima Plug-In Hybrid's trunk is smaller than the regular hybrid's trunk due to a larger battery pack. At just 9.9 cubic feet of cargo room, it's a bit limited. The Toyota Prius Prime's hatchback design, for example, offers far more versatility.
Technology
The 8-inch touchscreen has crisp graphics and an intuitive menu structure, although some drivers might find it a bit of a stretch to reach comfortably. A unique gauge cluster displaying various hybrid functions is one of the few indicators that you're driving a gas-electric car.
Audio & navigation
A navigation system comes standard, as does a premium Harman Kardon sound system.
Smartphone integration
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included with the infotainment system's offerings.
Driver aids
Most of the latest driver safety and collision avoidance aids come with the optional Technology package. A rearview camera is standard, however.
Which Optima Plug-In Hybrid does Edmunds recommend?
The 2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid comes in just one flavor: an EX trim level with an optional Technology package. Kia loads the EX with a raft of daily comfort and conveniences, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, navigation, Bluetooth, Apple and Android smartphone control, and a premium sound system. It's hard to go wrong with the standard sedan. The Technology package is pricey, but it adds a sunroof, ventilated front and heated rear seats, adaptive headlights and several collision avoidance features. It's a good choice if you crave additional peace of mind and open-air motoring.
2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid models
The 2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid is a five-passenger sedan available in a single EX trim level with an optional Technology package that adds extra comfort features and several collision avoidance technologies. Standard features start with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and an electric drive motor that combine to produce 202 horsepower. A six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are also standard.
Outside, you'll find 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights with LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, heated side mirrors, keyless entry and a hands-free trunk opening. Inside the Plug-In comes with push-button ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a rearview camera, a heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power driver seat, a navigation system, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connections, Kia Uvo services, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with satellite radio.
The optional Technology package adds adaptive LED headlights, automatic high beams, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a power passenger seat and a host of collision avoidance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning and rear parking sensors.

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Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
Not EPA tested for Optima Plug-In Hybrid EX
Optima Plug-In Hybrid EX
vs
$210/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Reliability
The 2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid has a 5 years / 60,000 miles basic warranty and no recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
There are no recalls for the 2017 Kia Optima Plug-In HybridWarranty
5 years / 60,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 10 years / 100,000 miles
- Hybrid component Warranty
- 10 years / 100,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 5 years / 100,000 miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(59%)
4(25%)
3(8%)
2(0%)
1(8%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Manufacturer buyback - know what you are getting
4 out of 5 starsKia Shopper, 11/10/2018
2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
What other Shoppers should know before buying this car? That all you have to do is call Kia with the VIN number and ask them to tell you all of the maintenance warranty and repairs done on the vehicle. You can even sign up for the owner portal just by having a VIN however the information on the vehicle I was shopping for was woefully incomplete. The customer service representative on the … phone provided me with the full list of items repaired and replaced on the vehicle. I did not opt to buy it due to having 3 wire assembly replacements in 2018. Lemon Law requires repairs to be completed before the vehicle can be resold but since they were completing the same repair for the third and the vehicle had multiple other issues that it had been in for repeatedly I dared not take a chance on it even for the lower price. Buyer beware!
Great plug-in Hybrid!
5 out of 5 starsGrant Calkins, 02/25/2017
2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
This car is everything you could want in a plug-in hybrid, with a few (relatively) minor exceptions such as no programmable garage door opener buttons, charging door tricky to close after charging. It's pretty much a grown-up Chevy Volt (which I also own and love!), but one thing Kia should have done differently: for smoothness in EV mode, have the electric motor directly power the … wheels (ie eliminate the 6 speed auto trans in EV mode). Also take note that KIA sells cars in non-traditional ways - apparently they do not allow their dealers to order any specific vehicles; they only sell what arrives on the car hauler truck. This makes it difficult (sometimes impossible) to connect with the vehicle and dealer you like. That said, the dealers apparently can ATTEMPT to identify and divert vehicles immediately after manufacture. Also, Kia's web site makes it very convenient to view all dealer's inventories for specific vehicles. All said and done, I would definitely buy another Kia. Grant Calkins, Bend, OR
In the shop for more than 1 week. What the?
1 out of 5 starsAlan Higashi, 06/18/2018
2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
I am leasing this car for three years. After 3 months, I took it in for a recall (something to with the battery voltage protection device) and first oil change. The service department notified me that there was a milky substance in the oil. They could not diagnose the problem and had to call their own tech support for help. To make a long story short, my car has been in their repair shop … for a week now. Hopefully, I can get it back in a couple of days. The service department took 5 days to diagnose the problem and they are replacing a high pressure pump. Even with this replacement, they aren't sure if this will solve the problem. The irony of this is I really intended on getting an all-electric vehicle because of the low maintenance required of electric motors. I settled on this plug-in hybrid because it allowed me to drive in all-electric mode for up to 29 miles. My commute to work is only 24 miles so the all-electric range was acceptable. I have driven the car for 3 months and still had a full tank of gas when I took the car in for service. I can't understand why the ICE engine has this major problem when I haven't even used the ICE engine when driving.
Update: 7/10/18. I got my car back after being in the shop for a week. See the previous paragraph. After driving for a few weeks, the warning indicator light begins to blink on and off. The Hybrid system warning light also turns on. The manual recommends that I get the car back to the Kia Service Department. Again? You've got to be kidding me. I have driven this car for about 4 months and it is telling me it needs repair. Also, when charging the battery, the fan turns on and is quite loud. The fan never turned on before the warning lights started flashing so I'm assuming when charging, the battery is overheating. Pretty scary! I hope it doesn't catch fire. Anyway, I scheduled an appointment with the Kia Service Department and they can't look at the car for another week. I hope this problem is solved right away and the car is not in the shop for another week. So far, terribly disappointed in the reliability of this car.
I made the right choice
5 out of 5 starsVolo R, 06/24/2017
2017 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
I made the right choice, enjoy every ride. My daily commute is around 30 milrs, I've been driving just one thousand miles and still have a quarter of fuel tank! Electric drive is quiet and yet quite powerful!
2017 Optima Plug-In Hybrid Features & Specs
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $35,210 |
|---|---|
| EV Tax Credits & Rebates | |
| Engine Type | Plug-in hybrid |
| Combined MPGe (Electric + Gas) | 103 MPGe |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 9.9 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
| Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Optima Plug-In Hybrid models:
- Lane Departure Warning System
- Monitors the vehicle position within your lane and warns you if you deviate, or begin to deviate, from your lane.
- Blind-Spot Detection
- Warns you of vehicles that might be in your blind spots with aural and visual signals, including side mirror indicators.
- Forward Collision Warning
- Warns of a potential collision with the car in front of you. Bundled with autonomous emergency braking.
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