It’s always an exciting time when I have the chance to test drive an awesome vehicle for a week. This week, I’ll be reviewing the 2012 KIA Optima Hybrid Deluxe. I’m super excited about this vehicle, it’s not your typical hybrid. Not only does it look amazing, kind of sporty, but it’s super roomy and holds a Guinness Book of World Record! Here’s the run down on the 2012 KIA Optima Hybrid.

The 2012 KIA Optima Hybrid Deluxe is designed to increase aerodynamic efficiency, to do this KIA has included enhancements such as a lower ride height, unique front and rear fascias, underbody pan, and grill shutters. These few things combined contribute to a lower coefficient of drag, more so than the Toyota Prius.

The KIA holds a 2.4 L hev, 206 HP, 195 lbs of torque engine and gas milage is 35 MPG city / 40 MPG Hwy. With the KIA Optima Hybrid’s system when the vehicle stops and the electrical load is low, the engine will cut off which saves fuel consumption as well as cuts emmissions. The KIA’s electric motor will kick in no matter what speed your going, which will save fuel on your gasoline engine by expending less energy as well as emitting fewer pollutants through the exhaust. As with other hybrid vehicles any time the breaks are applied the regenerative breaking system (RBS) will charge the battery.

The wheel size on this vehicle is 215/55R17, you’ll also find 11.8” vented disc brakes and comes with mud and snow all season tires. This vehicle also comes with a NHTSA 5 star crash safety rating and is the 2012 IIHS top safety pick along with receiving the US EPA “Smart Way” certification mark. This car is also equip with electronic stability control and an anti-lock braking system, tire pressure monitoring system, dual front advanced airbags, dual front seat mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags in both the front and back row.

As with all other KIA vehicles the KIA Optima Hybrid Deluxe is covered by KIA’s comprehensive warranty program which offers consumer protection (see dealer for details). The KIA Optima Hybrid Deluxe is also made in the USA and as I stated above, has set the Guinness World Record for the lowest fuel consumption by gasoline car traveling through all 48 contiguous US states getting nearly 65 MPG over nearly 8,000 miles!

I can’t wait to share with you my exact thoughts and review of this vehicle in the upcoming days, stay tuned for my posts, videos and photos of the 2012 KIA Optima Hybrid Deluxe.