BRAINTREE, Mass., May 26, 2011 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Kia’s first-ever hybrid, the 2011 Optima Hybrid, sporting class-leading mileage and luxury amenities, will be debuting at Massachusetts Kia dealerships like Quirk Kia this June. With fuel efficiency of 35 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, the Optima Hybrid is set to take the fight straight to its midsize sedan competitors just as the summer travel season heats up.
With its lithium polymer battery pack, the Kia Optima Hybrid can cruise at speeds of up to 62 mph on electric power alone or run in a blended gas-electric mode at the speeds of the gas-fueled Optima. Including a destination fee, Kia’s first hybrid will start at just $27,250 when it hits showrooms, with impressive standard features like a rear backup camera and a cooling glove box. The new hybrid Optima presents the latest gas-electric technology, right down to its Virtual Engine Sound System, which plays a prerecorded engine sound in electric mode to make sure pedestrians and drivers hear it coming.
“Everyone wants a fuel-efficient vehicle these days, but the Optima Hybrid stands out with a price lower than other midsize hybrid competitors and a greater emphasis on features,” said Joe Dziedzic, general manager of Greater Boston Kia dealership Quirk Kia. “It combines the head-turning good looks and upscale comfort that have been drawing new customers to Kia with hybrid technology that adds 11 more miles per gallon in the city.”
The Optima Hybrid will be the first Kia vehicle to offer the automaker’s new hands-free, voice-activated entertainment and communications system, called UVO, which is powered by Microsoft’s Windows Embedded Auto software platform. The system controls the AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system and features Bluetooth connectivity, available SIRIUS Satellite Radio, steering-wheel controls and auxiliary and USB audio input jacks for MP3 players. Massachusetts Kia drivers will be pleased to see that the system can respond to text messages by voice, considering the state’s new law banning texting while driving.
Inheriting many of its features from the Kia Optima LX A/T trim, Kia’s new hybrid will come standard with powered eight-way adjustable seats, dual-zone automatic temperature control and a push-button start with a smart key. The Optima Hybrid also delivers the latest safety technology, including six airbags, electronic stability control, a traction control system, a brake assist system and hill start assist.
Kia is hoping that its Optima Hybrid will build on the success of the gas-powered Optima, which saw its year-over-year sales more than double in April. In addition to being named Best of 2011 by Cars.com and receiving a 2011 Edmunds’ Inside Line Editor’s Most Wanted Award, the vehicle was famously dunked over by Blake Griffin at the NBA Slam Dunk Contest this past February. Griffin auctioned off the Optima this month to raise money for the Stand Up To Cancer initiative.
“Both the Optima and the Optima Hybrid are more than capable of attracting high-profile attention with their fresh design and interior features that are typically reserved for much more expensive cars,” Dziedzic added. “The vehicles are opening up the Kia brand to a whole new audience, and newcomers are very impressed by what Kia is bringing to the table.”
About Quirk Kia:
Quirk Kia’s goal is to achieve loyal, lifelong customers by providing superior value and service in every aspect of the automobile purchase and ownership experience. Minutes from downtown Boston, Quirk Kia is a premier Greater Boston Kia dealer renowned for its commitment to automotive excellence. Stop by and see for yourself why Quirk Works. Visit Quirk Kia online at www.quirkkia.com, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/QuirkKia , call them at 781-917-1202 or visit their showroom at 443 Quincy Ave in Braintree, MA.
Media Contact:
Jim Smith, of Quirk Automotive Group, 781-843-4800
