The Sonata Hybrid is the gas-electric version of Hyundai's popular Sonata midsize sedan. Unlike many hybrids, it features a powertrain optimized for highway driving, giving it the best open-road fuel economy in its class.
The Sonata Hybrid uses a parallel hybrid system, allowing the four-door to operate on its electric motor, gas engine or any combination of the two. It employs next-generation Lithium Polymer battery technology along with a unique configuration designed to maximize high-speed fuel economy.
Thanks to its unique design, the Sonata Hybrid achieves 35 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway – the latter leading the mid-size hybrid segment. The Sonata Hybrid is also capable at traveling up to 62 mph on electric power – beating the previously class-leading Ford Fusion’s 47 mph electric-only rating.
Green Can Be Mean
Despite its focus on fuel economy, the Sonata Hybrid also promises to be a decent performer when it comes to power. The Sonata Hybrid is not only the lightest car in its segment – tipping the scales at just 3,457 pounds, a full 263 pounds lighter than the Ford Fusion Hybrid – but also leads the category with a combined output of 209 horsepower. Power is shifted through a conventional six-speed automatic transmission – unlike most hybrids which utilize a continuously variable (CVT) transmission.
Unique Styling To Go with the Unique Approach
In order to visually separate the Sonata Hybrid from the gas-only car, the hybrid model features unique headlights and taillights, a more aerodynamic front fascia, hexagonal grille, eco-spoke wheels, Hybrid Blue Drive badging and exclusive hybrid-only paint colors. Interior changes include supervision cluster with eco-display options, unique color choices and unique seat patterns.
Standard and Optional Features
In terms of equipment, the base model comes with 16-inch wheels, cloth seats, push-button start, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel with integrated radio, phone and cruise controls, dual automatic climate control, automatic light control, power windows, locks and mirrors, Hyundai Blue Link telematics, a 4.2-inch TFT screen and more.
Want to join the leather-packing hybrids in the rest of the segment? Opt for the Leather Package, which adds leather seating surfaces, heated front seats and rear seat bottoms, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink and compass.
Still not luxurious enough? Go for the Ultimate Package and gain everything in the Leather Package plus a panoramic sunroof, 17-inch wheels, navigation with high-resolution touch-screen, a rear backup amera, 400-watt Infinity premium audio with subwoofer and external amplifier, HD radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, an HVAC multi-mode button, premium door sill plates and a glossy black door surround and outside mirror housing.
Occupant Safety
Every Sonata Hybrid model comes standard with dual front, front side and side curtain airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems, active front head restrains, electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
Key Competitors
Whereas the Sonata Hybrid is optimized for highway efficiency, its rivals, which include the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Toyota Camry Hybrid, put the emphasis on city fuel economy. Another competitor, the Chevrolet Malibu Eco, appeals to those looking for better than-average (but not quite full hybrid) fuel economy at a lower price.