After Kia started the pre-orders of All-New K5 in South Korea as well as in North America, the South Korean carmaker is now testing the Hybrid variant of the latest Kia’s mid-size sedan. The Kia Optima Hybrid is expected to share the hybrid technology with the Sonata Hybrid and will have a Plug-in Hybrid model like is brother.
[ads id=”0″ style=”float:left;padding:9px;”]The all-new Kia Optima Hybrid will be powered by an efficient Nu 2.0-liter GDi hybrid engine mated to a 38 kW electric motor. The gasoline engine delivers maximum power and torque of 156 ps and 19.3 kg.m, up 4 percent and 5.5 percent respectively, compared to the previous model. The 38 kW electric motor also delivers 8.6 percent improved maximum power, with maximum torque of 20.9 kg.m (205 Nm).
With the upgraded engine and electric motor, the new model will achieve a significant improvement in fuel consumption like his brother, who showed a combined rating of 18.2 km/ℓwith 16-inch wheels (17.7 km/ℓ with 17-inch wheels).
This engine transfers power to the road via Hyundai-Kia Motors innovative six-speed automatic transmission.
The new unit – launched in October 2014 at the company’s annual International Powertrain Conference – houses almost all of the hybrid powertrain components within the transmission, minimizing energy losses and maximizing fuel economy.
[ads id=”7″ style=”float:left;padding:9px;”]The all-new Kia Optima Hybrid (K5 Hybrid for the South Korean market) will be joined by a Plug-in Hybrid variant, which will be Kia’s first Plug-in Hybrid.
The company also plans to introduce its first dedicated Hybrid model in the second half next year, the B-segment SUV Niro.
With the addition of the Plug-in Hybrid version, Kia will offer a complete range of eco-friendly models, further boosting the model’s popularity.
