Kia Motors finally unveiled their first-ever hybrid.

The 2011 Optima has more truck space than other cars of similar make.

But more importantly, this hybrid sedan claimed fuel economy of 40 mpg highway, 32 mpg city.

Locally, the family of Kia Country at 1515 N. Main St., Manteca, indicated that the Optima is just part of the landscape in which technology is king and hybrid vehicles are becoming regular fixtures on area highways and roads.

The new Kia Optima hybrid, in turn, is balancing fuel and electronic power to equal a more eco-friendly and cost-saving vehicle.

This hybrid hums along on the same 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine found on the gasoline Optima. The difference, however, is the permanent magnet synchronous electric motor that produces 40 horsepower – total output is 206 hp in hybrid mode – with help coming from the 270-volt lithium polymer battery.

Inside, some of the Optima hybrid will feature dual-zone automatic temperature control with rear vents; UVO in-vehicle “Infotainment” system; USB and auxiliary input jacks; power windows, door locks, and outside mirrors; push button start with smart key; cruise control; and rear-camera display.

Safety features include dual front advanced airbags, front-seat mounted air bags, full-length side curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, and a tire-pressure monitoring system, to name a few.

In addition, the Optima hybrid offers front fog lights, outside mirrors with turn signal indicators, LED tail lights, and a rear lip spoiler.

Among the extras are the Sirius satellite radio and traffic, panoramic sunroof, driver’s seat memory, and heated and cooled front seats.

For more information, call 209-239-6203 or log on to www.kiacountry.com.