Kia is simply irresistible

If your passion for cars is matched only by your determination to avoid fuel stops, the Kia Optima Hybrid appears to have been built just for you.

The Korea-based automaker, part of the Hyundai organization, has been aggressively introducing an array of new products at a relentless pace. As a result, the company's adolescent-like growth spurt has rapidly brought it into the automotive mainstream where previously it had been considered just a bit player.

For the 2011 model year, Kia issued forth an all-new Optima sedan, designed by former Volkswagen-Audi stylist Peter Schreyer, who is credited with the look of Audi's A6 sedan and sporty TT coupe and roadster. Since his arrival at Kia back in 2006, the brand's design "language" has headed off in a completely different direction from parent Hyundai's. The Optima and its gasoline-electric Hybrid offshoot are shining examples.

Both midsize four-door sedans appear nearly identical, yet the Hybrid features a slightly different grille, unique 16-inch wheels and extra lower cladding, LED (Light Emitting Diode) taillamps and a Hybrid badge affixed to the trunk lid.

The most notable difference inside the Hybrid's attractive cabin is the specialized dash layout that graphically delivers a real-time status report indicating electric motor or gasoline engine-only operation, or a combination of both. The gauges also display how much juice remains in the battery and when the regenerative front braking system is converting kinetic energy to electrical energy to assist in replenishing the battery. Also, an "eco" dash light glows green whenever the Hybrid is being driven in a fuel-efficient manner.

The battery system -- in fact the Hybrid's entire power train for that matter -- has been lifted from the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and consists of a 270-volt lithium-polymer battery that's claimed to be lighter and more durable than other types, such as the lithium-ion cells installed in the Chevrolet Volt and the Nissan Leaf electric cars.

The battery feeds a 40-horsepower electric motor that functions in tandem with a 166-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, for a combined 206 horsepower.

The duo uses a special six-speed-automatic transmission that operates without a traditional torque converter, again a departure from most hybrid cars that use continuously variable (CVT) transmissions. The top three gear ratios have been designed so that the engine runs at the lowest-possible rpm to help save fuel.

Other aspects of the Hybrid's operation include low-rolling-resistance tires, electrically operated power steering and air conditioning and an integrated starter-generator that shuts off the gas engine when the vehicle is stopped.

The Optima Hybrid is capable of speeds as high as 62 mph (100 km-h) on electric power alone, compared to 47 mph for the Ford Fusion and for short bursts as high as 25 mph for the 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid. However, the Optima's estimated 35 mpg city and 40 mpg highway fuel economy falls short of the Camry's 43/39 and the Fusion's 41/36 city/highway ratings.

For $27,250 (including destination charges), the Optima Hybrid includes dual-zone climate control, eight-way power driver's seat and a hands-free, voice-activated communications and entertainment package. Also standard is a "Virtual Engine Sound System" that plays a prerecorded traditional engine sound whenever the Hybrid is running on electric power alone, which alerts pedestrians when the Hybrid's operation would otherwise be silent.

A premium package adds a panoramic sunroof, climate-controlled front seats and heated rear seats, 17-inch wheels and a premium sound system. Selecting this option deletes the voice-activated system.

Of course, Kia's lengthy 10-year/100,000-mile power train warranty applies, which also happens to be the warranty for its gasoline-powered vehicles. That combination of passion and practicality makes the stylish and sophisticated Optima Hybrid an irresistible electric choice.