2016
Kia Optima Hybrid

Starts at:
$25,995
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New 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid
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Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 4dr Sdn
    Starts at
    $25,995
    36 City / 40 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    120 month/100,000 miles
    Warranty
    Gas/Electric I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn EX
    Starts at
    $32,195
    35 City / 39 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    120 month/100,000 miles
    Warranty
    Gas/Electric I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid

Notable features

Five-seat midsize hybrid sedan
Four-cylinder engine plus electric motor
Six-speed automatic transmission
EX luxury trim level available

The good & the bad

The good

Sharp styling
Cabin appointments
Gas mileage
Smooth automatic transmission

The bad

Backseat headroom
Front seats need more cushioning
See all specifications

Expert 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview

The gas-only version of the Kia Optima midsize sedan was redesigned for 2016, but the Optima Hybrid covered here continues in the previous design.

The Optima Hybrid has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder gas engine that teams with an electric motor powered by a lithium-polymer battery to produce 199 horsepower total. Unlike most hybrids, the Optima has a six-speed automatic transmission instead of a continuously variable automatic.

New for 2016
There are no significant changes for 2016.

Significant Standard Features

  • 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor
  • 47-kilowatt lithium-polymer battery
  • Six-speed automatic transmission
  • Front-wheel drive
  • Tire inflator kit
  • Keyless entry with push-button start
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Tilt/telescoping steering wheel
  • Required in every new car: front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system

Significant Available Features

  • High-intensity-discharge headlights
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • Leather upholstery
  • Heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Power front seats
  • Navigation system
  • Backup camera
  • Blind spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert

2016 Kia Optima Hybrid review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview

The gas-only version of the Kia Optima midsize sedan was redesigned for 2016, but the Optima Hybrid covered here continues in the previous design.

The Optima Hybrid has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder gas engine that teams with an electric motor powered by a lithium-polymer battery to produce 199 horsepower total. Unlike most hybrids, the Optima has a six-speed automatic transmission instead of a continuously variable automatic.

New for 2016
There are no significant changes for 2016.

Significant Standard Features

  • 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor
  • 47-kilowatt lithium-polymer battery
  • Six-speed automatic transmission
  • Front-wheel drive
  • Tire inflator kit
  • Keyless entry with push-button start
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Tilt/telescoping steering wheel
  • Required in every new car: front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system

Significant Available Features

  • High-intensity-discharge headlights
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • Leather upholstery
  • Heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Power front seats
  • Navigation system
  • Backup camera
  • Blind spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert

Available cars near you

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Safety review

Based on the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Overall rating
5/5
Combined side rating front seat
3/5
Combined side rating rear seat
5/5
Frontal barrier crash rating driver
5/5
Frontal barrier crash rating passenger
5/5
Overall frontal barrier crash rating
5/5
Overall side crash rating
5/5
Rollover rating
5/5
Side barrier rating
5/5
Side barrier rating driver
3/5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5/5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5/5
9.6%
Risk of rollover
Side barrier rating driver
3/5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5/5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5/5
9.6%
Risk of rollover

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
5 years / 60,000 miles
Corrosion
5 years / 100,000 miles
Powertrain
10 years / 100,000 miles
Battery
10 years / 100,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
5 years / 60,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
6 years or newer / less than 80,000 miles
Basic
12 months / 12,000 miles
Dealer certification
165-point inspection
See all CPO program details

Compare similar vehicles

Select cars to compare for more detailed info.
  • 2016
    4.2
    Kia Optima Hybrid
    Starts at
    $25,995
    2016 Kia Optima Hybrid
    36 City / 40 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    120 month/100,000 miles
    Warranty
    Gas/Electric I-4
    Engine
    Front-wheel drive
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  • 2018
    5.0
    Kia Optima Hybrid
    Starts at
    $25,995
    2018 Kia Optima Hybrid
    39 City / 46 Hwy
    MPG
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    Seat capacity
    120 month/100,000 miles
    Warranty
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    Engine
    Front-wheel drive
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  • 2018
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    Starts at
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    MPG
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  • 2021
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    2021 Hyundai SONATA Hybrid
    50 City / 54 Hwy
    MPG
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    Seat capacity
    120 month/100,000 miles
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  • 2018
    Hyundai Sonata Plug-In Hybrid
    Starts at
    $33,250
    2018 Hyundai Sonata Plug-In Hybrid
    -
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    -
    Warranty
    Gas/Electric I-4
    Engine
    Front-wheel drive
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  • 2019
    Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid
    Starts at
    $35,390
    2019 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid
    29 mi.
    Range
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    Seat capacity
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Consumer reviews

73% of drivers recommend this car
4.2 / 5
Based on 19 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.4
Interior 4.4
Performance 4.2
Value 4.1
Exterior 4.5
Reliability 4.2

Most recent

  • By Fred from South Bend, Indiana
    Owns this car
    April 12, 2023

    Don't do it!

    First, my car has an engine failure due to a factory recall, and less than a month later it has a transmission failure. Mind you-- the car's transmission passed an inspection prior to the engine being replaced. I'm told it would cost almost 15,000 to replace. Also, learned the issues I've experienced with the transmission are related to all Kia sold between 2000 -2017. My car is a 2016 purchased in 2018 with only 67,000 miles. Save your money! I used to love this car but I'll never buy another Kia!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 2.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 1.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By sassy from Pembroke, Ontario, Canada
    Owns this car
    November 30, 2020

    trouble from the day I bought it

    Its a beautiful car inside and out, but having trouble with the hybrid system, The dash flashes check Hybrid system, shut car off, then surges at 40 km per hour, I'ts done this every since I bought the car, and mechanic in Canada don't know how to fix the problem, Now Kia Canada is involved, I sit in tears cause I have no help from anyone
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 3.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Adil from Schaumburg, IL
    Owns this car
    January 8, 2020

    Very reliable and nice drive

    Perfect car for all your need in city and highway drive . Excellent gas mileage with fun drive and beautiful look. Tons of options in EX trim
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Shanimarie from Pontotoc, MS
    Owns this car
    December 8, 2019

    Coolest Car I’ve Ever Owned!

    I love this car and all of its amazing features! It is completely loaded and drives great! It is extremely fuel efficient and exactly what I need!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Samuel A from Avon, Connecticut
    Owns this car
    April 29, 2019

    Very nice car.

    The passenger seat should be outfitted with an up and down feature. This lends itself to a very uncomfortable position for passenger. There must be a fix for this poor situation.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By NW from Hendersonville NC
    Owns this car
    March 1, 2019

    Kia is the best!!!

    Awesome for the money!!! This is my 2nd KIA and never had any trouble from my KIA SPECTRA EX nor my OPTIMA HYBRID so far. Great gas mileage for long trips..thank you KIA!!!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By RegiDC from Laurel, Maryland
    Used to own this car
    June 24, 2018

    it?s gone now

    After owning this vehicle for only a little over a year I sold it due to Kia?s poor quality. This vehicle always cracked and popped as if it were made from cheap materials. Also, it has defects the doors would randomly unlock themselves. It did get great gas miles and 200HP for a Hybrid is really decent.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 2.0
    Interior 2.0
    Performance 2.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 2.0
    Reliability 2.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By 14Optima from Turlock
    Owns this car
    May 16, 2018

    Superb Interior with lot of features

    This car has all the features i was looking for... Premium audio, Navi... My only concern is the mileage. was expecting around 35-37 but getting only 31 MPG.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Nadolap from Indianapolis,IN
    Owns this car
    May 6, 2018

    So far so good great even

    Luxury, good gas milage, peppy a little power. From Indianapolis to Chicago 2hrs stuck in Chicago traffic 2 1/2hrs and back to Indianapolis 1/2 tank of gas very pleased
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Teeguy from Palmdale Ca
    Owns this car
    March 20, 2018

    Awesome ride

    The car meets all of my needs as of now looking forward to getting an a bigger car possibly the Sorrento Kia dealership is awesome as well as their service and parts department
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Mike H from altoona, ia
    Owns this car
    March 1, 2018

    More Power Than You May Think

    When I began looking for a new car, I had to consider that this time around I'd need good gas mileage, a lengthy warranty, four doors and a low enough price as not to break the bank on something that loses value as soon as I sign the paperwork. The Kia Optima Hybrid was this car. I was impressed with the variety of features but in particular, the seamless way the motor and engine worked together to create pretty peppy car while delivering a lot of torque. It had me sold from the first test drive that I could take it on long trips to vacation or visit family without needing to stop for fuel on the way. With a full tank, my range states 561 after having driven normally and topping it off. The bells and whistles are many and I was fortunate to find a 2016 model being sold as "new". It was the dealer's loaner car. I had no issues with the already nearly 4000 miles on it due to such a long warranty. The car is just fun and it's nearly silent stops are still amazing to me. The tranny is as smooth as silk and the inline 4 cylinder (2.4L in this case) is plenty when coupled to the electric motor. The brakes are so amazing. They feel as though the car could instantly stop. This is the Premium model not the EX, the latter is the fully loaded one. Whether you buy the eco-hybrid or a gasoline powered Optima, you are getting a great car. The resale is a bit of a stinker but I don't buy a car only to sell it 3 or 4 years later - that's what a lease is for. The stereo - which I figured to be a letdown - isn't. It's average to above average quality and has plenty of sound as well as SiriusXM for those on the road trips. Very happy with it thus far but it's only been a little while. Driving a hybrid is a different animal but thankfully the learning curve isn't all that much. I'm not one to modify a car but in this case tinting the rear glass and maybe upgrading the 'bleh' REAR speakers outta do.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Desert Dweller from Tucson, AZ
    Owns this car
    February 5, 2018

    Comfort and reliability

    You won't know you're driving a hybrid. This car accelerates well, is comfortable to drive and has a nice feeling ride. Roomy interior with good visibility. Gets great gas mileage and is rated for low emissions so it's good for the environment. Back seat is roomy enough for adults.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Kia dealers near you

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid?

The 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid is available in 2 trim levels:

  • (1 style)
  • EX (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid?

The 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid offers up to 36 MPG in city driving and 40 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid?

The 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid reliable?

The 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid has an average reliability rating of 4.2 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid owners.

Is the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid a good Sedan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid. 73.7% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.2 / 5
Based on 19 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.4
  • Interior: 4.4
  • Performance: 4.2
  • Value: 4.1
  • Exterior: 4.5
  • Reliability: 4.2

Kia Optima Hybrid history

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