Segment:
Mid-size hybrid sedan, competing with vehicles like the Toyota Camry Hybrid, Ford Fusion Hybrid, and Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid.
Key Selling Points:
Fuel efficiency, stylish design, comfortable interior, Kia's growing reputation for quality and value.
Powertrain Technology:
Kia's proprietary Parallel Hybrid System, combining a gasoline engine with an electric motor for enhanced fuel economy and reduced emissions.
Powertrain:
Hybrid system (electric motor, battery pack, hybrid control system), internal combustion engine, transmission
Chassis:
Brakes (including regenerative braking), steering, suspension, wheels, tires
Electrical:
12V battery, high-voltage battery system, charging system, lighting, infotainment, climate control, driver information systems
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, LATCH system, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS)
Appearance Care:
Recommendations for interior and exterior cleaning, including specific advice for painted surfaces, glass, and interior materials.
Technical Information:
Includes sections on tire pressure, fuel recommendations, and sometimes basic specifications relevant to the owner.
Operation And Usage:
Starting and driving the hybrid, understanding hybrid system operation, parking, fuel information
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate controls, audio system operation, seating adjustments, door locks, windows, interior lighting
Maintenance:
Fluid checks (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid), tire pressure monitoring, windshield wiper replacement, basic cleaning procedures
Troubleshooting:
Warning lights and indicators, basic diagnostic tips for common issues, what to do in case of emergencies
Hybrid System Operation:
Guidance on understanding when the vehicle operates in electric-only mode, hybrid mode, engine charging mode, and regenerative braking.
Taking Care Of The Unexpected:
Covers procedures for flat tires, jump-starting (with specific precautions for hybrids), and other roadside emergencies.
Level:
Consumer-oriented, focusing on safe operation, routine maintenance, and understanding vehicle features.
Specific Components Covered:
Details on the functioning of the electric motor, power control unit, high-voltage battery, and the interplay with the internal combustion engine and transmission.
Diagnostic Information:
Explanation of dashboard warning lights and indicator symbols, with basic guidance on what they signify and immediate actions to take.
Part Numbers:
May list some common maintenance part numbers (e.g., air filter, oil filter) or refer owners to dealerships for specific parts.
Lubricant Specifications:
Detailed specifications for engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and potentially transmission fluid, adhering to industry standards.
NHTSA Overall:
5-Star (as per NHTSA ratings for the 2011 Optima, general model; specific hybrid ratings may vary slightly but typically follow the base model)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Regenerative Braking System
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags
Restraints:
Active front head restraints, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
System Features:
AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, USB/iPod auxiliary input, Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming (availability dependent on trim level).
Display:
Center console display for audio, climate, and vehicle information. Higher trims may have upgraded displays.
Display Information:
Hybrid system indicators (e.g., EV mode, battery charge, fuel economy), trip computer, external temperature display.
Ports:
Auxiliary audio input jack, USB port (often integrated with the audio system).
Hybrid Control:
Sophisticated control unit manages power flow between the gasoline engine, electric motor, and battery for optimal efficiency and performance.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Consult manual for severe conditions.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Engine Air Filter:
Every 30,000 miles (or as needed based on driving conditions)
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 105,000 miles, then every 60,000 miles thereafter (for the hybrid system coolant).
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-20, API SN (or equivalent), ILSAC GF-5 certified. Capacity: Approx. 4.8 quarts (with filter).
Coolant:
Hyundai/Kia Genuine Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent, a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and deionized water. Capacity: Approx. 7.6 quarts (total system).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation), meeting FMVSS 116.
Transmission Fluid:
Kia SPIII Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity, often non-serviceable/lifetime fill for certain hybrid components).
Hybrid Battery Degradation:
While less common in this generation, like all hybrid batteries, potential for gradual capacity loss over extended mileage and time.
Infotainment System:
Some early models may experience occasional glitches or unresponsiveness with the infotainment system. Software updates may be available.
Brake Wear:
Due to regenerative braking, traditional brake pad and rotor wear can be reduced, but it's still important to inspect them regularly.
Kia Motors:
Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automotive manufacturer, has a history of producing a wide range of vehicles since its founding in 1944.
Optima Hybrid Introduction:
The 2011 Optima Hybrid marked Kia's entry into the mid-size hybrid sedan market, leveraging technology shared with the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, which debuted around the same time.
Manufacturing Location:
South Korea (typically Kia's Hwaseong Plant)
