Overview & Reviews
To create its Sonata Hybrid, Hyundai started with a modified version of the Sonata's conventional four-cylinder engine and six-speed transmission, then sandwiched an electric motor in between them. Supplying electricity is a lithium-polymer battery pack that's lighter and more compact than traditional nickel-metal hydride batteries. The result is lively performance along with high fuel economy numbers. Some rival hybrids offer even better mpg numbers, however, so we suggest checking out a couple other midsize hybrid sedans before you make a final decision.
Current Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
At the core of the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid midsize sedan is a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain that features a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 159 horsepower and 154 pound-feet of torque, combined with a 35kW electric motor. Together they produce a peak of 199 hp. Power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control.
The EPA estimates Sonata Hybrid fuel economy at 38 combined. However, in Edmunds fuel economy testing of both the Sonata Hybrid and the mechanically similar Kia Optima Hybrid, we found that both fall a few mpg short of these estimates. Meanwhile, its competitor hybrid sedans are substantially more efficient.
The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid has two trims levels: base and Hybrid Limited. Base standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, automatic headlights, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, Blue Link telematics and a sound system with a USB/iPod interface. The Limited's added perks include 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, leather upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a navigation system and an upgraded sound system. The Hybrid Limited also offers an optional panoramic sunroof.
The Hybrid's interior is virtually identical to the regular Sonata's, save for the typical hybrid display that monitors the gasoline-electric powertrain and coaches the driver on how to drive in a more fuel-efficient manner. Both front and rear seats offer adult-sized legroom, although there's slightly less rear headroom than most rivals due to the sloping rear roof line. The quiet cabin and quality materials add an upscale quality. But as with most hybrids, the powertrain's battery pack eats into the available trunk space, reducing it from 16.4 to 12.1 cubic feet.
The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid uses a modified six-speed automatic in lieu of a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that's common to other hybrids. Some drivers may prefer this, as it provides a more familiar feel as it works its way through the gears. Many hybrids have been characterized as having unusual, less-than-smooth acceleration, but the Sonata Hybrid's less advanced hybrid system (especially the six-speed automatic transmission) makes it feel more like a regular car. The brakes, on the other hand, require more acclimation than normal for a hybrid sedan and drivers may dislike the especially unorthodox feel. We've also found the Sonata Hybrid's ride and handling to be not as sophisticated as the class-leading hybrid sedans from Ford and Honda.
Used Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Models
The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid debuted as a 2011 model. The following year brought the Blue Link telematics system. Potential buyers should note that these earlier Sonata Hybrids were prone to occasionally shuddering while accelerating at low speeds as well as having an even more clumsy, uneven braking feel.
For 2013, those issues were addressed with upgrades to the powertrain and battery pack. That year also brought a bump in trunk capacity, from 10.7 cubic feet to 12.0 cubes. Other than slight feature differences, such as lacking a rearview camera and a touchscreen audio interface, these post-'13 Sonata Hybrids are similar to today's version.
User Reviews:
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Fun Car.... Already check engine light - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By smooser - April 20 - 1:01 pmMy wife and I love this car... Super fun to drive. The mileage the computer was reporting was about 36 average at best. Not bad. After a month and a half the check engine light came on. No problem... My wife took it in and the dealer said they fixed four recalls. (she didnt get a work order from the dealer with the details, a little strange) Now the car averaged 41.5 MPG. I was a little disappointed with the mileage, but that seems to be taken care of. Over all, we love our purchase. Hopefully we dont have a reoccurring check engine light problem. Thats precisely why I leased a hybrid. Wait until the technology has become the norm in the market.
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2012 Sonata Hybrid - 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By sonatahybrid65 - March 2 - 3:27 amJust picked up the new car this week. Received rebates, 0% for 60 months and nice discount. Have driven the car about 500 miles and am averaging 39 MPG. I love this car so far, the technology is amazing. It drive and rides very nice. Drove it about 250 miles first day on turnpike, 70 mph with no problems. Its not as powerful as my 2007 Sonata with V6, but the mileage is a good trade off.
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The 2016 Sonata Hybrid is AMAZING! - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By Douglas George - February 11 - 8:30 pmWe have 2 other Hyundai (07 Accent & 13 Elantra GT) and theyve been good cars. We ended up with a Sonata Hybrid SE as a service loaner car and really liked it. It was getting 40+ MPG on the same driving mix that the Elantra GT got 28-29. We decided to make a change, trading in the Elantra GT and our 07 Audi Cabriolet. We opted for a Limited (for the leather interior, heated/cooled seats) with the Ultimate package (panoramic sunroof, 400W stereo, saftey gadgets). We got great deal! MSRP of $36K and we got it for under $30K. 900 miles so far and still 200 miles left on the 2nd tank of gas. Ive seen as high as 56mpg reported on a few trips and consistently getting in the low 40s. Very quiet ride, it drives very sporty for its size, and the acceleration is very reasonable since the electric motor provides instant torque.
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2016 Sonata Hybrid - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By Susan Hicks - January 6 - 9:23 amOverall, the car exceeds my expectations. Being a hybrid, I expected slow a climb to reach the speed desired. I was shocked. It has power. The only negative I can say is about the cabin exterior sound quality. The car is very quiet. I can pull up to a car next to me at the light had hear everything being said in the other car. Sometimes even driving down the highway, another car will make a noise that gets your attention. Going what was that, then listening close you determine the source. My old Jeep roared and you heard nothing else. A new world of noises. It drives nice. I have not owned it long. Not even had the first oil change yet. I would like to have the option of power seats in the SE model. Currently, you can only get that with the Limited model and Leather seats.
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Bugs Fixed - 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By kamana06 - November 29 - 9:39 pmShortly after purchase of the hybrid with the electronic package had multiple problems with hybrid system...Finally, after several engineering "fixes" the hybrid function has been as expected for the past 20,000 miles of California driving..I have not experienced any noticeable problem with the transition from electric to motor nor any meaningful problem with braking performance. Overall I think this car is a good combination of price, exterior design, and amenities without paying a premium for an upscale "badge."
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NOT A BAD RIDE AT ALL - 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By samsmith76 - November 10 - 5:30 pmGot about 4K mi on my 2013 Sonata Hybrid LTD (no sunroof). People have mentioned they donÂt like the brakes with this car but to me brakes are fine (IÂm not a tailgater though!). They take a bit getting used to at first. People seem to forget that the brakes are specially designed to capture energy when you slow down and brake to help recharge the HEV battery. I quickly learned that you shouldnÂt mash the brakes. Nice and gentle, steady as she goes = $aving $ at the pump!
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Just bought a certified used hybrid - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By kurtster1 - October 11 - 3:23 pmI just bought a lease return 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. I prefer cloth so I was glad to find this a basic package car. I love it. Averaging 33 mpg where as my Jetta got 20 in town. Such a quiet car and have had it up to 72 mph on the interstate in electric mode. So far, it rocks!
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With intelligent driving, this car delivers excellent mileage - 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By ohio_pop - October 4 - 4:08 amI have 2 Sonata hybrids a 2011&12. The cars are roomy and provide excellent comfort. The ride is extremely smooth especially on the highway. For folks larger than petite or who have joint mobility issues, this car provides the most driver/front passenger leg room and ease of entry and exit. The controls are intuitive and the beeping signals - engine on/off, key in car etc easy to follow - somewhat similar to how a pet would communicate with you. The trick to getting excellent mileage is to use cruise control as much as possible - even in city traffic. This maximizes use of the electric vs. gas engine. I consistently get >40 mpg-see fueleconomy.gov OH entries. Luv driving this car!
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The first Service corrected issues with shifting - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By r_l_r - September 4 - 6:28 pmI got my Sonata hybrid in May and was very happy with it. The hesitancy in shifting between electric and gas motor at low speeds did not bother me. I did not appreciate any difficulty with the brakes, which worked well in a couple of emergensy stopping situationa. My mileage was in the 40+ mpG range. I had the first service about a month ago, Hyundai updated the computer hardware and software for free. After the service there was absolutely no hesitancy in shifitng and the MPG increases to 43-48 MPG. I remain very satisfied with this car and feel that it has gotten better.
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lots of mpg - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By Julie Prigoff - September 3 - 10:16 pmToo new to rate on repairs and maintenance, but the looks are great. The mpg is more than expected with it ranging from 39-56 mpg. Seating is very comfortable, ac works very well in our hot climate
