Kia Optima Hybrid
42 MPG The 2020 Kia Optima Hybrid is EPA-rated at 42 MPG combined (40 city / 45 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 357 gallons, $1143 a year in fuel, or $0.076 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2011–2020 run it averages 38.7 MPG, improving by 6 MPG over 10 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.060 | $595 | $893 | $1190 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.071 | $714 | $1071 | $1429 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.076 | $762 | $1143 | $1524 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.083 | $833 | $1250 | $1667 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.095 | $952 | $1429 | $1905 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.107 | $1071 | $1607 | $2143 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.119 | $1190 | $1786 | $2381 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 42 MPG | 40 | 45 | $1500 | 213 | 1 |
| 2019 | 41 MPG | 39 | 45 | $1500 | 215 | 1 |
| 2018 | 42 MPG | 39 | 46 | $1500 | 212 | 1 |
| 2017 | 42 MPG | 39 | 46 | $1500 | 212 | 1 |
| 2016 | 37 MPG | 35 | 38 | $1700 | 242 | 1 |
| 2015 | 37 MPG | 35 | 38 | $1700 | 242 | 1 |
| 2014 | 37 MPG | 35 | 38 | $1700 | 242 | 1 |
| 2013 | 37 MPG | 35 | 38 | $1700 | 242 | 1 |
| 2012 | 36 MPG | 34 | 38 | $1750 | 247 | 1 |
| 2011 | 36 MPG | 34 | 38 | $1750 | 247 | 1 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 261 midsize cars models tracked here, the Kia Optima Hybrid ranks 24 on current figures, against a class average of 27.2 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Toyota Avalon Hybrid (43), Honda Accord Hybrid Sport/Touring (44), Lexus ES 300h (44), Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid (46), Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE/SE (46).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 213 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 3.2 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Kia Optima Hybrid get?
The 2020 Kia Optima Hybrid is rated at 42 MPG combined by the EPA — 40 city and 45 highway. Across all 10 model years in the database it averages 38.7 MPG, ranging from 36 to 42 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Kia Optima Hybrid cost in fuel per year?
At 42 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 357 gallons — roughly $1143 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.076 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2020 model is $1500.
Has the Kia Optima Hybrid become more efficient over time?
Yes. It has gone from 36 MPG in 2011 to 42 in 2020 — an improvement of 6 MPG, or 17% across 10 model years.
Is the Kia Optima Hybrid efficient for its class?
It ranks 24 of 261 in the Midsize Cars class on current figures, against a class average of 27.2 MPG. That is 14.8 better than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.