The Hyundai Sonata hybrid wrapped in the Kia Optima’s burlier skin. Like the gas-electric Sonata, the Optima is powered by a 166-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a 40-hp electric motor.

The five-seat Kia Optima debuted for the 2001 model year and competed in the mid-size sedan class. Value-oriented pricing and an impressive new-car warranty helped broaden the Optima’s appeal, and the ...

His automotive adventure started reporting on various motorsport events as a sports writer before moving onto a full-time auto career with various sites, including This Week In Motors and ...