Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV launched

Following the introduction of Kia’s Optima Plug-in Hybrid saloon in 2016, a Sportswagon estate version has been unveiled. It’s a logical move, especially considering the threats being made by numerous cities to restrict or even ban diesel-fuelled vehicles.

The powertrain is carried over from the four-door unchanged. That means a 154 bhp (115 kW / 156 PS) 2.0 litre direct-injection ‘Nu’ petrol engine is combined with a 67 bhp (50 kW / 68 PS) electric motor.

Total system output is rated at 202 bhp (150 kW / 205 PS), with 375 Nm (276 lb/ft) of peak torque available. Delivery is to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.

Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV (2018) Front Side

Thanks to an 11.26 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack and regenerative braking, pure-electric range is anticipated to exceed 37 miles (60 kilometres) at speeds of up to 75 mph (120 km/h). Provisional New European Driving Cycle efficiency figures are 188.3 mpg (1.5 l/100km) with CO2 emissions of 34 g/km.

One obvious reason for choosing the estate over the saloon is extra practicality. Indeed, luggage capacity for the former is 440 litres, but that volume increases to 1,574 litres with the 40:20:40-split rear seats folded flat.

Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV (2018) Interior

Sales of the Korean-built Optima Sportswagon Plug-in Hybrid are due to begin across Europe during the third quarter of 2017. Prices have yet to be revealed.

Related posts:
Kia Stinger European specifications announced
UK prices for the Kia Optima Sportswagon
Kia adds a plug-in hybrid to its Optima range

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