2017 Kia Optima PHEV Owner’s Manual

As one of the flashier family sedans, the Kia Optima already has a lot going for it, even though it exists in a hyper-competitive market segment.

In addition to its handsome exterior and welcoming interior, the plug-in electric version of the Optima adds another solid value proposition to an already well-rounded, agreeable mid-level pick in this category.

That said, Kia also incorporated a few adjustments to the Optima PHEV’s exterior to further enhance its efficiency by reducing air drag, adding a model-specific aerodynamic wheel design, a refashioned rear bumper with a diffuser insert that masks the exhaust outlet, and a redesigned front facia with grille shutters that actively close with increased vehicle acceleration.
However, the defining modifications are under the hood, as expected.

While the 2017 Kia Optima PHEV retains the same engine as the conventional hybrid version of the nameplate—a 154-horsepower direct-injected 2-liter inline-four-cylinder—it works to further improve upon its efficiency by replacing the existing mild-hybrid system with a more effective high-voltage electric pump. The plug-in hybrid also uses a liquid-to-air heat exchanger to cool the on-board six-speed automatic transmission.

For its strictly electric-only bits, the Optima PHEV packs a 9.8-kWh lithium-ion battery that pairs with a transmission-integrated 67-HP electric motor that can output 91 horsepower in electric-only mode. When the motor combines with the gasoline engine in hybrid mode, it makes a combined 202 horsepower and 276 pound-feet of torque.

In electric-only mode, the 2017 Kia Optima PHEV promises a range of around 29 miles and speeds up to 75 MPH.

However, the riding experience does come with a great degree of power customizability, as you can switch to electric-only mode, hybrid mode, and even a Charging mode that prioritizes the charging of the battery at higher speeds, guaranteeing as much range as possible whenever you switch to electric-only mode.