Kia Optima EcoPlugin and EcoHybrid to debut in 2016

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Kia Motors has announced that it will be revealing a new Kia Optima plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant in 2016 to join its existing Optima hybrid (pictured here), which will also be updated for the year.

To be badged as the Kia Optima EcoPlugin and the EcoHybrid, both vehicles will be made available for global markets. The updated hybrid model will be revealed in the first half of 2016, while the new PHEV will make its global debut in the second half of the year.

The Kia Optima EcoPlugin will feature a 156 hp/189 Nm 2.0 litre four-cylinder GDI (gasoline direct injection) engine boosted by a transmission-mounted 68 hp electric motor. The Optima PHEV’s total system output will be rated at 205 hp at 6,000 rpm. No total torque figures were revealed, but the figures provided are very similar to the recently-launched Korean-spec K5 Hybrid.

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A 9.8 kWh lithium-polymer traction battery is said to be included and can be recharged to full power in under three hours, based on a 240-volt power supply. Kia has claimed that its Optima PHEV will have a full-electric driving range of 43 km, while fuel consumption figures are rated to be 2.3 litres per 100 km.

Moving over to the Kia Optima EcoHybrid, the Korean car maker confirmed that the existing model will be treated to an upgrade that will largely focus on improving fuel efficiency up to 10%.

Featuring the same 156 hp/189 Nm 2.0 litre petrol engine, the Optima hybrid will be boosted by a 52 hp electric motor for a total system output of 195 hp at 6,000 rpm. The upgraded six-speed automatic transmission houses the electric motor and clutch which replaces the traditional torque converter.

An upgraded lithium-polymer traction battery with a 13% increase in capacity (now 1.62 kWh) is positioned under the vehicle’s boot floor to avoid compromising the Optima’s cargo capacity.

Each of the new Kia Optima hybrid models will also get distinct styling and features to set them apart from their counterparts. Kia tells us that these unique items include an active front radiator grille with silver brightwork and clean metallic blue finishing on the front grille surrounds, rear bumper elements, and wheel arches. Each model will also feature their respective EcoPlugin and EcoHybrid badges where necessary.

Kia has not released any images of its two new hybrid models as yet, so do note that the images used here are of the current Korean-market Kia Optima Hybrid model.

GALLERY: Korean-Market Kia Optima K5

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Chris Aaron

With an equal passion for fast cars and everyday workhorses, Chris Aaron maintains a passion for European makes, Formula 1, playing the electric guitar and spending endless hours on the PlayStation - first-person shooters and the Gran Turismo franchise are his favourites. He also finds it strange to have written this in the third person.

 

Comments

  • Likey on Nov 17, 2015 at 1:50 pm

    Frontal very Camryish. Overall look is beautiful.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 0
    • Same L0rrrr on Nov 17, 2015 at 4:30 pm

      Beautiful is not enough. The hybrid need to be RELIABLE. Look at the Honda hybrids with so many recall then you know you better stick with Toyota on hybrids.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 4
      • Uglytoyota on Nov 17, 2015 at 8:08 pm

        Toyota hybrids fugley, dowan

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 1
        • Same L0rrrr on Nov 18, 2015 at 11:25 am

          When you can’t afford it, you say it is fugley. lol
          Wanna buy “beautiful” car? Get a Proton then. I wish you good luck!

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Beautiful design …

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
  • Sammy Loo on Nov 20, 2015 at 8:43 pm

    This car will have even worse RV compared to the petrol version.

    The only hybrid with good RV here are only the Toyota hybrids.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
 

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