With 40 MPG combined, the 2019 Kia Optima Plug-in Hybrid is a very efficient mid-size sedan. This number appeals to buyers who need the practicality and space of a traditional sedan but want to drastically reduce their reliance on gasoline. These are often commuters, eco-conscious families, or just people who appreciate the lower running costs of a plug-in hybrid.

City and highway performance

The Optima Plug-in Hybrid gets 38 MPG in the city and 43 MPG on the highway. This difference shows the system’s strengths. The electric motor reduces the load on the 2.0L four-cylinder engine during stop-and-go driving, which makes city driving very close to the combined MPG.

The electric motor is less effective at higher, steady speeds on the highway, where the gasoline engine does more of the work. Still, 43 MPG on the open road is impressive for a vehicle of this size and capability.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Kia Optima Plug-in Hybrid at $1,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price. This assumes you only use gasoline and never charge the battery. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, local gasoline prices, and how often you charge the car. Drivers who consistently charge the battery and use electric-only mode will see much lower fuel costs.

Real-world expectations

Fuel economy numbers are good for comparison, but rarely match real-world experience perfectly. The advertised 40 MPG for the 2019 Optima Plug-in Hybrid is a good starting point, but aggressive acceleration, frequent climate control use, and heavy loads will hurt this number. Eco-friendly driving, planning routes to avoid traffic, and consistent use of regenerative braking will get you closer to, or even past, the EPA estimates. The key difference between the Optima Plug-in Hybrid and a standard hybrid is that driving style in electric mode does not impact gasoline expenses, because you’re using from the grid. Understanding your driving patterns will help you predict and manage your fuel use.

How it compares

The mid-size sedan segment has many fuel-efficient options, but few match the Optima Plug-in Hybrid’s practicality and MPG. A standard hybrid like the Toyota Camry Hybrid LE gets 52 MPG combined, prioritizing fuel economy, while the Honda Accord Hybrid gets 47 MPG combined. A traditional gasoline powered sedan, like the standard Kia Optima with its 2.4L engine, only gets around 27 MPG combined. A buyer focused on maximum MPG might choose the Camry Hybrid. Someone set on owning a plug-in hybrid sedan will find the Optima a good choice. For those interested in seeing all Kia fuel economy data or specifically OPTIMA MPG across all years, information is easily available.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Optima’s electric-only range. Charge the battery fully. This helps travel in electric power. Short daily commutes can be completed without using gasoline when charging frequently.

Pay attention to the driving mode. The Optima Plug-in Hybrid has driving modes like “Eco” or “EV.” Use “Eco” mode for general driving. It optimizes fuel efficiency by reducing throttle response and adjusting transmission settings. Engage “EV” mode for short trips. This prioritizes electric power.

Use regenerative braking effectively. Anticipate stops and coast, allowing the regenerative braking system to get energy and recharge the battery. Avoid hard braking minimizing energy recovery.

Keep proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate tires to the pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. It makes a difference.

Reduce weight. Extra weight in the vehicle increases fuel use. Remove items from the trunk and passenger area reducing the load on the engine and improving fuel efficiency.