The 2019 Kia Optima Sportswagon Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) offers an intriguing alternative to both traditional internal combustion engine vehicles and full battery electric vehicles (EVs). Combining the practicality of a station wagon with the efficiency of hybrid technology, the Optima Sportswagon PHEV presents a compelling option for those who need space and versatility without fully committing to an all-electric vehicle.
Prices
Starting Price: In 2019, the Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV was priced around £35,000 to £40,000 in the UK, depending on the trim level and optional features.
Price Comparisons: This pricing placed it competitively against other plug-in hybrid wagons and sedans, though slightly higher than standard petrol or diesel variants.
Engine and Performance
Powertrain:
Engine: The Optima Sportswagon PHEV features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor.
Combined Output: The system delivers a combined power output of 202 horsepower and 375 Nm of torque.
Transmission: Power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.
Range
Electric-Only Range: The PHEV can travel up to 33 miles (53 km) on electric power alone, making it suitable for short commutes without using any petrol.
Total Range: When combined with the petrol engine, the total range extends to about 600 miles (965 km), depending on driving conditions.
Fuel Efficiency: With a full charge, the Optima Sportswagon PHEV offers a fuel efficiency of around 176 MPG (1.6 L/100 km) in combined driving.
Size and Seating
Dimensions:
Length: 4.85 meters (15.9 feet)
Width: 1.86 meters (6.1 feet)
Height: 1.47 meters (4.8 feet)
Seating Capacity: The car comfortably seats five passengers.
Cargo Space: The battery pack slightly reduces boot space, offering 440 liters of space, which is smaller than the non-hybrid Optima Sportswagon but still practical for a family car.
Manufacturing
Made In: The Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV is manufactured in South Korea, primarily at Kia's Hwaseong Plant.
Why Good
Practicality: As a wagon, it offers more cargo space than a sedan, making it ideal for families or those who need extra room.
Fuel Efficiency: The plug-in hybrid system provides excellent fuel economy, especially for drivers who can maximize the use of the electric-only range.
Comfort and Technology: The Optima Sportswagon PHEV comes well-equipped with features like a high-quality infotainment system, driver assistance technologies, and a comfortable interior.
Environmental Benefits: Lower emissions compared to traditional petrol or diesel engines, especially in urban areas where it can run on electric power alone.
Why Not Good
Price: The initial purchase price is higher than that of non-hybrid Optima models, which might be a barrier for some buyers.
Reduced Cargo Space: The battery pack intrudes into the boot, reducing cargo capacity compared to non-hybrid versions.
Limited Electric Range: The electric-only range of 33 miles may not be sufficient for longer commutes, requiring the use of the petrol engine more frequently.
Resale Value: PHEVs often have lower resale values compared to traditional vehicles, partly due to the rapid advancements in hybrid and electric technology.
Sales Figures
Annual Sales: Kia’s Optima Sportswagon PHEV was a niche model, with annual sales figures estimated to be in the low thousands across Europe. It was less popular than its sedan counterparts, partly due to the wagon body style being more of a niche market.
Best Service
Servicing and Warranty: Kia offers one of the best warranties in the industry, with a 7-year/100,000-mile warranty covering the Optima Sportswagon PHEV. Regular maintenance is advised every 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.
Service Costs: PHEV models can be slightly more expensive to service than standard petrol or diesel models due to the complexity of the hybrid powertrain.
Common Issues
Battery Degradation: Over time, the battery may lose some of its capacity, reducing the electric-only range.
Software Glitches: Some users report issues with the infotainment system, including occasional freezing or connectivity problems.
Brake Wear: The regenerative braking system can sometimes cause uneven brake pad wear, leading to more frequent replacements.
Conclusion
The 2019 Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV is a solid choice for those who need the practicality of a wagon and are looking for a greener alternative to conventional cars. It offers a balanced blend of efficiency, comfort, and utility, making it an excellent option for families and eco-conscious drivers alike. However, the higher price point, reduced cargo space, and limited electric range are factors that might lead some buyers to consider a full EV or a more traditional hybrid.
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Prices
Starting Price: In 2019, the Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV was priced around £35,000 to £40,000 in the UK, depending on the trim level and optional features.
Price Comparisons: This pricing placed it competitively against other plug-in hybrid wagons and sedans, though slightly higher than standard petrol or diesel variants.
Engine and Performance
Powertrain:
Engine: The Optima Sportswagon PHEV features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor.
Combined Output: The system delivers a combined power output of 202 horsepower and 375 Nm of torque.
Transmission: Power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.
Range
Electric-Only Range: The PHEV can travel up to 33 miles (53 km) on electric power alone, making it suitable for short commutes without using any petrol.
Total Range: When combined with the petrol engine, the total range extends to about 600 miles (965 km), depending on driving conditions.
Fuel Efficiency: With a full charge, the Optima Sportswagon PHEV offers a fuel efficiency of around 176 MPG (1.6 L/100 km) in combined driving.
Size and Seating
Dimensions:
Length: 4.85 meters (15.9 feet)
Width: 1.86 meters (6.1 feet)
Height: 1.47 meters (4.8 feet)
Seating Capacity: The car comfortably seats five passengers.
Cargo Space: The battery pack slightly reduces boot space, offering 440 liters of space, which is smaller than the non-hybrid Optima Sportswagon but still practical for a family car.
Manufacturing
Made In: The Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV is manufactured in South Korea, primarily at Kia's Hwaseong Plant.
Why Good
Practicality: As a wagon, it offers more cargo space than a sedan, making it ideal for families or those who need extra room.
Fuel Efficiency: The plug-in hybrid system provides excellent fuel economy, especially for drivers who can maximize the use of the electric-only range.
Comfort and Technology: The Optima Sportswagon PHEV comes well-equipped with features like a high-quality infotainment system, driver assistance technologies, and a comfortable interior.
Environmental Benefits: Lower emissions compared to traditional petrol or diesel engines, especially in urban areas where it can run on electric power alone.
Why Not Good
Price: The initial purchase price is higher than that of non-hybrid Optima models, which might be a barrier for some buyers.
Reduced Cargo Space: The battery pack intrudes into the boot, reducing cargo capacity compared to non-hybrid versions.
Limited Electric Range: The electric-only range of 33 miles may not be sufficient for longer commutes, requiring the use of the petrol engine more frequently.
Resale Value: PHEVs often have lower resale values compared to traditional vehicles, partly due to the rapid advancements in hybrid and electric technology.
Sales Figures
Annual Sales: Kia’s Optima Sportswagon PHEV was a niche model, with annual sales figures estimated to be in the low thousands across Europe. It was less popular than its sedan counterparts, partly due to the wagon body style being more of a niche market.
Best Service
Servicing and Warranty: Kia offers one of the best warranties in the industry, with a 7-year/100,000-mile warranty covering the Optima Sportswagon PHEV. Regular maintenance is advised every 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.
Service Costs: PHEV models can be slightly more expensive to service than standard petrol or diesel models due to the complexity of the hybrid powertrain.
Common Issues
Battery Degradation: Over time, the battery may lose some of its capacity, reducing the electric-only range.
Software Glitches: Some users report issues with the infotainment system, including occasional freezing or connectivity problems.
Brake Wear: The regenerative braking system can sometimes cause uneven brake pad wear, leading to more frequent replacements.
Conclusion
The 2019 Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV is a solid choice for those who need the practicality of a wagon and are looking for a greener alternative to conventional cars. It offers a balanced blend of efficiency, comfort, and utility, making it an excellent option for families and eco-conscious drivers alike. However, the higher price point, reduced cargo space, and limited electric range are factors that might lead some buyers to consider a full EV or a more traditional hybrid.
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