2013 Kia Optima Hybrid ~ Amazing on Gas

Disclosure: We were able to test drive the 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid for review purposes. All opinions are my own.

Hybrid vehicle? What’s that? This is the thought that ran through my mind before our 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid review model arrived. I have heard of hybrid cars but had never driven one. Now that I have had the chance to test drive the 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid, all I can say is wow, I want one!! This car looks and feels like luxury to me.

If you are curious like me and looking for more information on how the 2013 Kia Optima hybrid works, look no further. The Optima hybrid uses a gasoline engine and electric motor to power the vehicle. The hybrid HEV computer decides when to use the engine and when to use the electric motor according to how driving conditions are. Since the Kia Optima uses a dual system, the engine will cycle on and off to recharge the battery when it reaches a low state of charge that can also happen during deceleration. Seems like a car with a mind of it’s own right? The engine will turn off under certain conditions and use the electric motor alone so that you can save fuel. I found the 2013 Kia Optima hybrid to be extremely great on gas and didn’t require frequent fill ups (easy on your wallet).

Let’s talk about first impressions! The 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid has an attractive exterior but the magic happens as soon as you get behind the wheel. The interior is just as attractive and is very roomy for a family of five. The hybrid greets you with a welcome message as soon as you turn it on and off. The start up is so quiet that I actually looked at my husband like “Did it start?” He assured me that it had started because the ready symbol was on. Woo hoo! We were ready to go!!  I appreciate all of the many features of the Optima Hybrid including the push button start w/ smart key, beautiful sun & moon roof (the girls loved this), bluetooth technology, navigation system, Satellite radio, and much more. One key feature that I really loved was the driver position memory system. My husband and I have a different feel when it comes to driving. He likes to sit far back and I like to sit closer up. With the driver position memory system we can save two different driver seat positions with just a simple button. I thought that was so neat!! As always, I am extremely appreciative of the rear camera display. It means a lot that Kia has added these safety features to all of their vehicles.

Overall, I give the 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid a 5/5 stars. My husband and I are actually thinking of buying one in the next few months! If you haven’t already, be sure to head to Kia or your local dealer to check out this amazing vehicle.