The interval representing peak efficiency, reliability, and total worth inside the Kia Optima Hybrid’s manufacturing run could be particularly recognized. For instance, a car exhibiting superior gas economic system, fewer reported mechanical points, and a robust resale worth could be thought of amongst these favorable manufacturing cycles.
Figuring out these intervals is vital for potential patrons looking for an economical and reliable car. These fashions typically steadiness preliminary buy worth with long-term working prices, offering a probably enticing possibility within the used automotive market. Analyzing historic information, shopper experiences, and knowledgeable critiques might help pinpoint these advantageous manufacturing spans.
The following sections will delve into particular mannequin years of the Kia Optima Hybrid, highlighting people who persistently outperform others by way of reliability, options, and proprietor satisfaction. We’ll study accessible information to supply knowledgeable suggestions for people contemplating buying one in all these automobiles.
1. Reliability Scores
Reliability scores function an important determinant in figuring out superior mannequin years of the Kia Optima Hybrid. Increased scores from respected sources, comparable to J.D. Energy or Client Studies, point out a decrease chance of mechanical failures and required repairs. This straight interprets to diminished possession prices and enhanced car dependability. As an illustration, a Kia Optima Hybrid mannequin 12 months persistently scoring above common in reliability surveys suggests a extra strong design and manufacturing course of in comparison with these with decrease scores. This, in flip, positions that 12 months as a probably extra fascinating possibility within the used automotive market.
The correlation between reliability scores and favorable possession experiences is demonstrable. Decrease guarantee declare charges, fewer reported technical service bulletins (TSBs), and optimistic proprietor suggestions are sometimes related to mannequin years boasting increased reliability scores. Conversely, mannequin years stricken by recurring points like hybrid system failures, electrical malfunctions, or transmission issues are inclined to obtain decrease scores, signaling potential dangers to potential patrons. The sensible utility of this understanding lies in prioritizing fashions with confirmed reliability when evaluating buy choices. A cautious examination of reliability information can mitigate the danger of buying a car liable to expensive repairs and downtime.
In abstract, reliability scores are indispensable when assessing the general advantage of particular Kia Optima Hybrid manufacturing years. Whereas not the only real deciding issue, they supply a precious indicator of long-term car efficiency and potential upkeep bills. Challenges stay in predicting future reliability primarily based solely on previous efficiency; nonetheless, a complete analysis of obtainable reliability information, mixed with different components comparable to security options and gas economic system, gives a well-rounded method to figuring out essentially the most advantageous mannequin years.
2. Gasoline Financial system Consistency
Gasoline economic system consistency is a vital determinant of fascinating Kia Optima Hybrid mannequin years. Variations in real-world gas consumption can considerably affect long-term possession prices and total satisfaction. A mannequin 12 months demonstrating constant efficiency, intently aligning with EPA estimates throughout various driving situations and over prolonged intervals, is usually thought of superior. Situations the place reported gas economic system deviates considerably from printed figures, indicating potential underlying mechanical or software program points, diminish the worth of a specific manufacturing cycle. For instance, if a particular 12 months of the Optima Hybrid persistently achieves or exceeds its mixed MPG score in impartial exams and proprietor experiences, it indicators a well-optimized and environment friendly powertrain.
The importance of gas economic system consistency extends past mere price financial savings. Constant efficiency is indicative of a well-engineered and maintained hybrid system. Unstable gas economic system figures may recommend degradation in battery well being, engine inefficiency, or sensor malfunctions. Think about a state of affairs the place a specific mannequin 12 months reveals a gradual decline in MPG over time, coupled with elevated frequency of diagnostic bother codes associated to the hybrid system. Such a pattern would elevate issues concerning the long-term reliability and cost-effectiveness of that particular manufacturing run. Subsequently, cautious analysis of long-term gas economic system information, gathered from proprietor boards, impartial critiques, and upkeep data, is important when figuring out essentially the most precious mannequin years.
In conclusion, gas economic system consistency isn’t merely a fascinating attribute however a key indicator of total car well being and long-term price of possession inside the Kia Optima Hybrid lineup. Mannequin years demonstrating steady and predictable gas consumption are inclined to characterize a safer and economically sound buy resolution. Recognizing and prioritizing constant gas effectivity gives potential patrons with a sensible technique of figuring out optimum mannequin years and maximizing the potential worth of their funding.
3. Restore Price Frequency
The frequency of required repairs straight correlates with the general possession expertise and long-term price related to the Kia Optima Hybrid. Figuring out mannequin years characterised by diminished restore incidence is paramount in figuring out which characterize superior worth.
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Element Reliability and Design
Mannequin years exhibiting strong element reliability usually incur fewer restore bills. Redesigns or enhancements to vital methods, such because the hybrid powertrain, electrical parts, or suspension, can demonstrably cut back the probability of failure. For instance, a mannequin 12 months incorporating an upgraded battery administration system could expertise a decrease incidence of battery-related repairs in comparison with its predecessors.
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Manufacturing Course of High quality Management
Variations in manufacturing course of high quality management can affect the frequency of defects and subsequent restore wants. Mannequin years produced in periods of enhanced high quality assurance protocols could exhibit fewer manufacturing-related points. This will manifest as diminished cases of untimely element put on, fluid leaks, or electrical connection issues, contributing to decrease total restore prices.
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Preventative Upkeep and Service Intervals
Scheduled preventative upkeep intervals and the fee related to these providers additionally play a major function. Mannequin years requiring extra frequent or intensive upkeep procedures will inevitably accrue increased restore bills over their lifespan. Conversely, fashions with longer service intervals and readily accessible parts for routine upkeep can supply substantial price financial savings.
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Guarantee Protection and Prolonged Service Contracts
The provision and phrases of guarantee protection, in addition to the choice to buy prolonged service contracts, can mitigate the monetary affect of surprising repairs. Whereas in a roundabout way impacting restore frequency, strong guarantee applications can protect homeowners from important bills ensuing from element failures or system malfunctions. Subsequently, reviewing the guarantee phrases related to particular mannequin years is essential when assessing their long-term price of possession.
In abstract, the frequency of repairs is a vital metric in assessing the long-term worth of a Kia Optima Hybrid. Mannequin years characterised by improved element reliability, enhanced manufacturing processes, affordable upkeep schedules, and complete guarantee protection are inclined to characterize extra economically sound and reliable decisions for potential patrons. Cautious consideration of those components is important when figuring out which manufacturing years supply essentially the most advantageous possession expertise.
4. Obtainable know-how options
The mixing of superior know-how considerably impacts the desirability and total evaluation of Kia Optima Hybrid mannequin years. Know-how options contribute considerably to driver security, comfort, and gas effectivity, thereby influencing the notion of a car’s worth and longevity. As an illustration, the introduction of superior driver-assistance methods (ADAS) comparable to lane departure warning, automated emergency braking, and adaptive cruise management in particular mannequin years straight enhances security. These options cut back the probability of accidents and contribute to a safer driving expertise. Equally, improved infotainment methods with enhanced connectivity choices, comparable to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, contribute to a extra fulfilling and handy in-cabin expertise.
The affect of know-how extends past mere comfort. Sure technological developments straight affect gas economic system and hybrid system efficiency. The incorporation of extra environment friendly regenerative braking methods, superior battery administration software program, and optimized engine management models can lead to tangible enhancements in MPG and diminished emissions. Think about the progressive enhancements to the hybrid powertrain management algorithms applied throughout totally different mannequin years. These optimizations can result in extra seamless transitions between electrical and gasoline energy, thereby maximizing gas effectivity and lowering reliance on the combustion engine. The presence of those developments straight impacts the desirability of a particular mannequin 12 months for environmentally aware patrons.
In abstract, accessible know-how options play a pivotal function in shaping the perceived worth and total evaluation of Kia Optima Hybrid mannequin years. The mixing of superior security methods, improved infotainment, and performance-enhancing applied sciences straight contributes to a extra fascinating and technologically superior car. Whereas technological developments alone don’t assure long-term reliability or diminished upkeep prices, they considerably improve the possession expertise and contribute to the general enchantment of particular mannequin years, positioning them as probably extra enticing choices for potential patrons. Finally, a balanced consideration of technological options, reliability, and cost-effectiveness is critical when evaluating the optimum Kia Optima Hybrid mannequin years.
5. Security function updates
Security function updates are a vital consideration in figuring out essentially the most fascinating manufacturing years of the Kia Optima Hybrid. The continual evolution of security know-how straight impacts occupant safety and accident prevention, making it a major issue for potential patrons.
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Evolution of Superior Driver-Help Methods (ADAS)
ADAS represents a major development in automotive security. The mixing of options like automated emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning (LDW), and blind-spot monitoring (BSM) reduces the danger of collisions. For instance, a mannequin 12 months introducing AEB gives enhanced safety in conditions the place the motive force fails to react promptly, probably mitigating or stopping a rear-end collision. The presence and class of ADAS are robust indicators of a mannequin 12 months’s security efficiency.
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Structural Enhancements and Crash Take a look at Efficiency
Car structural design and crash check efficiency are basic to occupant security. Mannequin years incorporating structural enhancements or reaching increased scores in standardized crash exams (e.g., IIHS High Security Choose) reveal a dedication to enhanced crashworthiness. An Optima Hybrid mannequin 12 months that underwent chassis reinforcement, leading to improved efficiency in small overlap frontal crash exams, would characterize a safer possibility in comparison with earlier iterations.
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Passive Security System Developments
Passive security methods, comparable to airbags and seatbelt applied sciences, constantly evolve. Mannequin years integrating superior airbag methods or improved seatbelt pre-tensioners supply enhanced occupant safety within the occasion of a collision. The incorporation of a knee airbag or an improved side-impact airbag design contributes to a extra complete security web for occupants.
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Software program and Sensor Refinements
The effectiveness of security methods depends closely on software program algorithms and sensor accuracy. Mannequin years receiving software program updates or sensor refinements for ADAS options exhibit improved efficiency and reliability. As an illustration, a software program replace addressing false alerts within the lane departure warning system or enhancing the accuracy of the adaptive cruise management system contributes to a extra seamless and dependable security expertise.
The mixing of those security function updates straight impacts the general desirability of particular Kia Optima Hybrid mannequin years. Potential patrons prioritizing security will discover fashions geared up with the most recent ADAS know-how, structural enhancements, and refined security methods to be extra compelling. The continual enchancment in security requirements throughout totally different manufacturing years underscores the significance of rigorously evaluating security options when figuring out essentially the most advantageous fashions.
6. Depreciation fee stability
Depreciation fee stability is a key think about figuring out essentially the most financially sound mannequin years of the Kia Optima Hybrid. A car that depreciates slowly and predictably retains a better share of its authentic worth over time, lowering the overall price of possession. This stability displays positively on the car’s perceived high quality, reliability, and desirability within the used automotive market. A mannequin 12 months characterised by speedy depreciation, conversely, signifies potential issues about its long-term sturdiness, upkeep prices, or total market enchantment. As an illustration, if a specific 12 months persistently holds its worth higher than others within the Optima Hybrid lineup, as evidenced by resale values after three or 5 years of possession, it suggests a stronger total package deal and extra prudent buy.
The interaction between depreciation and perceived worth is important. A steady depreciation fee suggests confidence within the car’s skill to carry out reliably and economically over its lifespan. This confidence interprets to increased demand within the used market, which in flip helps resale values. For instance, a mannequin 12 months recognized for its hybrid system longevity and minimal upkeep necessities is more likely to command a better worth and depreciate at a slower fee than one stricken by reported points. This impact highlights the significance of contemplating long-term price of possession, together with depreciation, when evaluating totally different mannequin years. Analyzing used automotive market information, resale worth experiences, and business tendencies can present precious insights into the depreciation traits of particular manufacturing cycles, enabling potential patrons to make extra knowledgeable choices.
In conclusion, depreciation fee stability is an important criterion for figuring out essentially the most financially advantageous Kia Optima Hybrid mannequin years. Secure depreciation signifies confidence in long-term reliability and interprets on to diminished total price of possession. The sensible significance of understanding this connection lies within the skill to make data-driven buy choices, maximizing the return on funding and minimizing long-term monetary burden. Nonetheless, solely specializing in depreciation could also be misguided, and needs to be utilized in mixture with different variables.
7. Client reported issues
Client-reported issues characterize a vital, and sometimes direct, inverse relationship with figuring out essentially the most fascinating Kia Optima Hybrid mannequin years. A excessive frequency of reported points, regardless of the character of the issue, invariably detracts from a mannequin 12 months’s total score. Conversely, mannequin years characterised by minimal shopper complaints are demonstrably extra more likely to be thought of among the many greatest. As an illustration, a manufacturing cycle exhibiting quite a few experiences of hybrid system malfunctions, transmission failures, or electrical points inside a brief timeframe could be instantly disqualified from consideration as a top-performing 12 months. The reliability and longevity implications stemming from such widespread issues are just too important to miss.
The character and severity of shopper reported issues range, and this variation additional influences the rating of mannequin years. Minor, simply resolvable points, whereas nonetheless undesirable, carry much less weight than systemic issues affecting vital car capabilities. Think about the hypothetical state of affairs through which a particular mannequin 12 months is stricken by experiences of defective infotainment screens or malfunctioning sensors inside the superior driver-assistance methods. Whereas inconvenient, these points are usually not essentially indicative of basic flaws within the car’s core engineering. Nonetheless, a mannequin 12 months with constant experiences of untimely battery degradation, engine knocking, or extreme oil consumption would characterize a considerably increased threat to potential patrons and be considered way more negatively. The sensible significance of this understanding lies in rigorously scrutinizing the sorts of reported points, assessing their potential affect on long-term reliability and upkeep prices.
An intensive examination of shopper experiences from respected sources, such because the Nationwide Freeway Site visitors Security Administration (NHTSA), Client Studies, and on-line proprietor boards, is important when evaluating Kia Optima Hybrid mannequin years. These sources present precious insights into the real-world experiences of householders, highlighting potential drawback areas and recurring points that will not be obvious from official producer information. Whereas no car is solely resistant to issues, the frequency and severity of shopper reported points function a key differentiator between superior and fewer fascinating mannequin years. Finally, prioritizing fashions with a confirmed monitor file of minimal shopper complaints is a realistic method to making sure a extra dependable and cost-effective possession expertise.
8. Hybrid system longevity
Hybrid system longevity serves as a cornerstone in defining the “greatest years for Kia Optima Hybrid.” The operational lifespan of the hybrid componentsincluding the battery pack, electrical motor, and associated management systemsdirectly influences the car’s long-term reliability and total worth. A mannequin 12 months exhibiting a sturdy and sturdy hybrid system interprets to diminished upkeep prices, enhanced gas effectivity over time, and a diminished threat of expensive repairs, thereby elevating its place within the rating of fascinating manufacturing cycles. Conversely, a 12 months stricken by untimely hybrid system failures or diminished battery capability considerably detracts from its enchantment, rendering it a much less enticing possibility for potential patrons.
The correlation between hybrid system longevity and favorable possession outcomes is demonstrably clear. As an illustration, think about a particular mannequin 12 months of the Kia Optima Hybrid persistently reporting prolonged battery lifespans, minimal degradation in electrical motor efficiency, and rare hybrid-related error codes. Such attributes contribute to a decrease whole price of possession, as the necessity for costly element replacements or system overhauls is minimized. Moreover, the constant gas effectivity afforded by a wholesome hybrid system ensures that the car continues to ship on its promised financial advantages all through its operational life. Conversely, a mannequin 12 months experiencing widespread points with battery capability loss or frequent electrical motor malfunctions wouldn’t solely incur increased restore bills but additionally compromise gas economic system, undermining the core worth proposition of a hybrid car.
In summation, hybrid system longevity is an indispensable think about figuring out the “greatest years for Kia Optima Hybrid.” Its direct affect on reliability, upkeep prices, and gas effectivity makes it a main consideration for discerning patrons looking for a reliable and economically sound car. Whereas different points, comparable to security options and technological developments, contribute to the general evaluation, the lifespan and sustained efficiency of the hybrid system finally outline the long-term worth and desirability of a specific mannequin 12 months. Prioritizing fashions with a confirmed monitor file of hybrid system sturdiness is a realistic method to making sure a passable and cost-effective possession expertise.
9. Resale market worth
Resale market worth serves as a sturdy indicator of total car desirability and long-term possession satisfaction, straight influencing the notion of “greatest years for Kia Optima Hybrid.” Increased resale values usually mirror robust shopper confidence in a mannequin 12 months’s reliability, efficiency, and have set, suggesting a well-regarded and sought-after car. Conversely, depreciated resale values typically sign potential points or a scarcity of demand, negatively impacting the general evaluation of a particular manufacturing cycle. For instance, if a sure Optima Hybrid mannequin 12 months persistently instructions a premium on the used automotive market in comparison with different years, it strongly suggests superior construct high quality, fewer reported issues, or extra fascinating options that justify the upper worth level. This elevated resale worth successfully lowers the overall price of possession, making that individual 12 months a extra enticing monetary proposition.
Resale market worth isn’t merely a consequence of preliminary car high quality; it’s formed by a posh interaction of things. Client notion, model repute, gas economic system tendencies, and the supply of substitute components all contribute to the resale worth of a given mannequin 12 months. Mannequin years benefitting from optimistic critiques, robust security scores, and a repute for gas effectivity have a tendency to keep up their worth extra successfully than these marred by destructive publicity or reliability issues. The sensible implications of this understanding are important for each potential patrons and current homeowners. Patrons can leverage resale worth information to determine mannequin years that provide the perfect long-term monetary prospects, whereas homeowners can use this info to tell choices relating to trade-ins or personal gross sales, maximizing their return on funding.
In abstract, resale market worth is an indispensable element in figuring out the “greatest years for Kia Optima Hybrid.” It displays shopper confidence, long-term reliability, and the general desirability of a particular mannequin 12 months. Though exterior components can affect used automotive market dynamics, a persistently excessive resale worth serves as a robust indicator of a car’s high quality and enduring enchantment. A balanced analysis of resale worth, alongside different components comparable to security options, know-how integration, and upkeep prices, is important for making knowledgeable choices when buying a pre-owned Kia Optima Hybrid. Potential challenges stay in precisely predicting future resale values on account of shifting market situations; nonetheless, historic tendencies and knowledgeable evaluation supply precious steering in navigating the used automotive market and figuring out essentially the most financially sound choices.
Often Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries relating to figuring out superior manufacturing years of the Kia Optima Hybrid. The main focus stays on offering goal info to help knowledgeable decision-making.
Query 1: What components definitively decide a Kia Optima Hybrid’s “greatest” mannequin 12 months?
The designation of a “greatest” mannequin 12 months outcomes from the convergence of a number of key components: demonstrable long-term reliability as indicated by restore statistics and proprietor suggestions, persistently excessive gas economic system efficiency, a complete suite of security options, minimal cases of reported mechanical or electrical points, and a steady depreciation fee that displays sustained market demand. A confluence of those points usually identifies a superior manufacturing cycle.
Query 2: How do reliability scores from organizations comparable to J.D. Energy or Client Studies affect the evaluation of mannequin years?
Reliability scores perform as an important benchmark in evaluating Kia Optima Hybrid mannequin years. Increased scores from respected sources recommend a decrease incidence of element failures and diminished upkeep prices, which interprets to enhanced proprietor satisfaction and diminished expenditure over the car’s lifespan. Fashions persistently scoring above common in reliability surveys are usually thought of extra fascinating.
Query 3: Is gas economic system consistency extra vital than uncooked MPG figures when evaluating the hybrid powertrain?
Whereas excessive MPG figures are fascinating, constant gas economic system efficiency over an prolonged interval is arguably extra important. Secure gas consumption signifies a well-functioning hybrid system with minimal degradation in battery well being or engine effectivity. Inconsistent MPG figures could sign underlying mechanical issues or diminished system efficiency, probably resulting in elevated long-term working prices.
Query 4: How do I interpret consumer-reported issues when researching totally different Kia Optima Hybrid mannequin years?
Client-reported issues present precious perception into the real-world possession expertise. It’s essential to research each the frequency and severity of reported points. Systemic issues affecting vital parts (e.g., hybrid system failure, transmission points) carry larger weight than minor, remoted incidents. Reviewing information from a number of sources, comparable to NHTSA complaints and proprietor boards, gives a complete perspective.
Query 5: What function do security function updates play in figuring out the perfect mannequin 12 months?
Progressive developments in security know-how, significantly the combination of Superior Driver-Help Methods (ADAS), considerably improve occupant safety and accident prevention. Mannequin years incorporating the most recent ADAS options, structural enhancements, and refined security methods are usually considered safer and due to this fact extra fascinating choices. Security efficiency represents a vital element of the general evaluation.
Query 6: Does a better resale worth definitively point out a superior Kia Optima Hybrid mannequin 12 months?
Whereas a better resale worth serves as a robust indicator of desirability, it shouldn’t be the only real determinant. Elevated resale worth typically displays optimistic shopper notion and a confirmed monitor file of reliability. Nonetheless, it’s important to think about components comparable to market tendencies and regional variations, alongside goal information on reliability and efficiency, to type a complete evaluation.
In abstract, the identification of “greatest years” necessitates a holistic method, contemplating reliability information, gas economic system consistency, shopper suggestions, security options, and resale market worth. A balanced analysis of those components will result in a extra knowledgeable buy resolution.
The following part will synthesize the data offered and supply particular mannequin 12 months suggestions primarily based on the factors outlined above.
Navigating “Greatest Years for Kia Optima Hybrid”
This part presents actionable steering for figuring out superior Kia Optima Hybrid mannequin years, specializing in data-driven analysis and knowledgeable decision-making.
Tip 1: Prioritize Reliability Knowledge: Seek the advice of impartial sources comparable to J.D. Energy and Client Studies for reliability scores. Constantly excessive scores recommend fewer potential mechanical points and diminished upkeep bills.
Tip 2: Consider Gasoline Financial system Consistency: Look at real-world gas economic system experiences from homeowners and impartial testing businesses. Secure MPG figures, aligning intently with EPA estimates, point out a well-maintained hybrid system and optimized efficiency.
Tip 3: Scrutinize Client Complaints: Completely overview consumer-reported issues on web sites like NHTSA and proprietor boards. Give attention to the frequency and severity of points to determine recurring issues particular to sure mannequin years.
Tip 4: Examine Security Characteristic Integration: Decide which mannequin years incorporate superior driver-assistance methods (ADAS), comparable to automated emergency braking and lane departure warning. Assess crash check scores from IIHS and NHTSA to gauge occupant safety.
Tip 5: Assess Hybrid System Longevity: Analysis the reported lifespan of the hybrid battery pack and electrical motor for various mannequin years. Prolonged battery life and minimal degradation in efficiency point out a sturdy and dependable hybrid system.
Tip 6: Observe Depreciation Charge Stability: Analyze resale values over time to evaluate depreciation fee stability. Fashions with decrease depreciation charges usually mirror sustained demand and a better total perceived worth.
Tip 7: Confirm Upkeep Historical past: Request and punctiliously overview the upkeep data of any potential buy. Constant adherence to advisable service intervals suggests accountable possession and proactive upkeep practices.
Using the following tips will empower potential patrons to conduct complete evaluations of the Kia Optima Hybrid and make knowledgeable choices, enhancing the probability of a passable possession expertise.
The following part presents a concluding overview, summarizing the important thing findings and proposals outlined on this complete evaluation.
Greatest Years for Kia Optima Hybrid
The previous exploration of “greatest years for Kia Optima Hybrid” has illuminated the multifaceted standards influencing car desirability. Reliability scores, gas economic system consistency, shopper reported issues, security function integration, hybrid system longevity, and resale market worth collectively decide the attractiveness of particular mannequin years. Evaluation reveals that figuring out superior choices requires a complete analysis past superficial options or preliminary buy worth.
Potential patrons are inspired to make the most of the offered framework to evaluate potential acquisitions. Knowledge-driven decision-making, knowledgeable by impartial sources and proprietor suggestions, will contribute to a extra passable possession expertise. Whereas particular person wants and priorities could range, an intensive understanding of those key determinants empowers shoppers to navigate the used automotive market with larger confidence and safe a Kia Optima Hybrid that aligns with their long-term aims.
