Hyundai’s Sonata Hybrid is a thoroughly modern, roomy, midsize sedan. It feels like a premium vehicle, and it is: build quality and reliability are excellent. Bragging points include best-in-class cargo volume (13.3 cu. ft) and the lowest drag coefficient (0.24, about the same as a greased fish).
While not shockingly fast, the Hybrid is peppy and will keep up nicely in traffic. Brake feel is excellent, especially for a regenerative braking system.
The Sonata Hybrid includes a number of sound system and multimedia improvements for the new model year: a7-inch color touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD radio, and next-generation Hyundai car connectivity. A new color palette will be available mid-year.
There are two trim levels offered for the Sonata Hybrid: base SE and upscale Limited. Both use the same hybrid drivetrain. The four-cylinder gasoline engine produces 154 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque; the electric motor contributes 51 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque.
As expected with a hybrid, fuel economy is excellent with an EPA-estimated 42 mpg in combined city and highway driving. Total range is over 650 miles on a single tank.
Standard features include a hands-free trunk opener, driver memory, and a rearview camera.
Comes equipped with heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators, automatic climate control, and 16-inch aluminum wheels. Options are very few: upgraded floor mats, wheel locks, a first aid kit, a trunk hook, and a rear bumper appliqué.
Gets additional standard equipment, including heated and ventilated front seats with passenger power, leather upholster and interior trim, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Only one option package is offered for the Limited, the Ultimate, and it’s a doozy. For $4,400, you get forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, automatic high beams, a panoramic sunroof, navigation, and a premium Infinity sound system.
The Sonata Hybrid costs about $4,000 more than the standard Sonata, and for anyone who drives in stop/start traffic, it’s worth it. Yes, fuel economy is better, but it will take many years to recognize the savings (hybrids are really about cutting overall carbon emissions anyway, but that’s a longer conversation). The payoff is the torque offered by the electric motor: 151 lb-ft may not be a huge number, but it’s all available from a complete standstill. The Hybrid feels more powerful than it actually is, and can zip about in stoplight traffic with ease.
Get your price on a Hyundai Sonata Hybrid »
Read our review on the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid »
