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:
Showing 51 through 60 of 134.00-
terrible experience - 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By gesiggie - January 15 - 1:21 pmI bought my 2012 Sonata Hybrid last year and was originally very pleased with it, with the exception of the seat design. The headrest comes too far out and pushes your head forward. I could get over that, though. What I can not get over is the shuddering that began just over a month ago. Ive had it into the dealership 4 times, and after upgrading the software which didnt solve the issue, they tell me the shuddering I experience every time I stop is normal. The drive is no longer fun, but stressful, as I brace myself each time I see a stop sign. Its a rough ride for driver and passengers alike. I would not recommend this car to anyone. Sadly, Im stuck with mine.
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Be Careful!! - 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By karen - December 31 - 9:26 pmWe were quite pleased with our Sonata Hybrid at first, but it definitely doesnt get the mileage that is posted on the sales price!! This past summer we ran into a major problem with the engine, a loud clanking sound started and from there we found out our engine needed to be replaced !! This happening to a car we had for just 3 years! So they had the car for about a month and a half because they couldnt find the parts needed to fix it, on top of that it was our fault that the engine had sludged up because they said we hadnt done appropriate oil changes totally not true!!They said they found large chunks of metal throughout the engine!! So therefore Hyundai responded that the work was not covered under warranty which we are still under!!! Thousands of dollars later we have our car back! Now 4 months later we have found out Hyundai has issued a recall for Hyundai sonatas 2011 and 2012 for this exact problem the recall states that they found large chunks of metal in the engine !! The exact same problem we had yet when we called about the recall our car is not in the recall!!! Ridiculous!!! I will not recommend Hyundai they dont stand up for the customer!
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Reasonable compromise for a Boomer - 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By glh2576 - October 27 - 2:13 pmWe acquired a 2012 Sonata Hybrid after looking at many options in this price/category. the Sonata is comfortable to drive and ride in, fairly quite and gets OK (but not nearly the EPA MPG) gas mileage. Ive put about 2500 miles on it and it is averaging about 30 MPG in mostly in-town driving which is where it should be using the battery the most so I was expecting better MPG. ANY in-town hill gives it a challenge as it tries to go from battery to motor. Build quality is good so far. Rear seats are comfortable. Highway cruising is good.
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Technology Is Not There - 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By docrickets - August 27 - 5:28 pmVoice command is way off. These guys need to study Apple SIRI. The system has a very hard time recognizing voice commands. By the time it does recognize what you want, you have driven off the road or caused an accident. Even the service advisors are clueless in helping you with the problem. Blue Link is Hyundais answer to on-star. Dont waste your money. They use cell sites to triangulate your position or to speak with you. Will not work if your out of the cell towers. The operators are rude and their supervisors are arrogant.
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transmission leaks - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By alisa - August 4 - 12:50 amReally loved this car the first 2 weeks of owning it. It has everything we were looking for in a affordable, roomy, stylist hybrid. The bluetooth and xm radio standard features work great. Unfortunately after 600 miles we noticed drips on garage floor where vehicle was parked, then engine light came on. Found out it was a tranmission leak. Now we have a rental car for I dont know how long. The dealership has been very accommodating and the corporate office was very reassuring they will correct asap. Great 100,000k warranty, we may be needing it. We hope it is just a fluke, time will tell. We also own high end luxury vehicles too and they are no better. Time to get a bicycle!
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Sonata Hybrid Limited - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By Arthur Zipin - July 19 - 4:21 am -
DO NOT BUT THE SONATA HYBRID - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By rdb53 - June 27 - 11:56 pmDo not buy the Sonata Hybrid for its gas mileage. The vehicle will achieve the advertised highway mileage but the city mileage performance is erratic and the idea that it can achieve 35mpg in city driving is absurd. All the dealership can do is plug in their computer and look for error codes. When no error codes show up they tell you the car is performing as designed even if the mpg is only 26. Also do not waste your time contacting Hyundai Motors America customer service. The only response you receive from them is a referral back to the dealership and a list of the reasons that you may be at fault for the low mpg because of poor driving habits. They are a waste of their companys resources.
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Wonderful Hybrid Vehicle Without The Compromises - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By Hyundai Fan - June 9 - 5:05 pmI considered a first generation Sonata hybrid a few years ago, and Im glad I waited. This is a great car that is leaps and bounds better than the previous model. The trunk space is improved, and the mileage is dramatically better. Great commuter sedan with 43 MPG overall so far. Love the heated and ventilated leather seats, and my kids also get heaters in the back seating as well with plenty of leg room. My wife appreciates the safety features and the lane/collision avoidance warnings, as well as the overall range well in excess of 600 miles. This is my 4th Sonata, and these cars just keep improving with each iteration. Purchased the limited without the ultimate package because I really have no use for a sunroof or built-in navigation. Only downside to this compromise is that the primary display is smaller than it should be, and sound system is just average. Great car, and even better with over 20% off MSRP!
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Finally Got it Right! - 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By gilbertgirl47 - May 25 - 1:53 amPurchased 2012 Hybrid in Aug 2012. Loved it. After a week, it started lurching sometimes and the gas mileage wasnt what I expected. After complaints to the dealership my cars computer(s) was upgraded twice at no charge and now I get great mileage and no more lurching. Drive 60% in town and 40% highway. I average 37mpg but on long road trips get 39-42mpg, sometimes higher. Have seen 50mpg. Hubby loves to drive my car more than his! One reason we chose Sonata is that three of our grandchildren can ride in back with no problem. Stylish, fun to drive, roomy and we love it! The trunk in the hybrid is smaller than the regular Sonata, but plenty of room for luggage for a road trip for 2.
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Excuse my language - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By Victor Tom - May 14 - 7:39 amManual sucks------index is limited.
