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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  We love our new Sonata Hybrid - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By Hal Baumbaach - April 8 - 4:59 am

  After telling people for the last 4 years how we loved our two Priuses, we were shocked while driving a Sonata at the dealership. We went to look at the Sonatas because they are beautiful cars and came away totally amazed at all of the features, the comfort, and the quiet of the Sonata. Prius is not even in the same ballpark as Sonata. I call our Sonata "our economy luxury car." We only paid an extra $1,000 more than the last Prius we bought, a 2014, and the Sonata feels like it is worth at least $10,000 more in features, beauty, quiet, safe, comfortable ride. I cant tell you how often my wife and I discuss how much we love our new Sonata. We bought the $35,000 Hybrid Limited loaded with all the features for $29,000 about 3 months ago and are getting over 40 mpg which is about 5 mpg less than our Prius was getting.

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  I Love this Hybrid - 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By golfing713 - March 31 - 6:23 pm

  I test drove 2014 Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE. 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid, 2014 Toyota Prius Plug-In, and 2013 Honda Civic Hybrid. All of these hybrid cars share the same feature, CVT. Continuous Variable Transmission. I work for Nissan and most Nissans have a CVT in the car which are consistently being replaced. Since there first or second year CVTs I passed on Honda/Toyota. The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited has a smooth quiet ride. Has a lot of great features and gas mileage so far has been in the low to mid 30s. Fit and Finish, seat comfort, back-up camera. nav, bluetooth make this car a great choice. Dont listen to the bad reviews, I feel this car has a great value for the $$ D

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  Sonata hybrid - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By Sbremer - February 25 - 10:19 pm

  Stitching on leather seats questionable

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  After months of research, glad I bought this car - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By Karen - October 18 - 7:51 am

  So I agree with previous reviewer, so wish I had the features and hybrid stuff with a small suv (this is my first sedan!) but having said that, quite pleased with this car. Will come back and add to this review as have only had the car for a day, but I agree that controls (and there are LOTS of them) are laid out well and intuitively. My only problem? Being able to tell whether the car is on or not, keep trying to drive only to discover the car isnt on all the way. We have a 2007 hyundai sonata in the family, and the 2016 hybrid makes it look sad and forlorn. Bigger than the 2007, an unbelievably roomy rear seating area, trunk is crazy big for a hybrid, and how can you not love those LED running lights? So spiffy looking, feels like driving a luxury car for a whole lot less money. So glad I got the limited (WITHOUT the ultimate package, I dont like sunroofs), ventilated seats are so nice and looking forward to the heated seats in winter. Just a great car all around. Okay Hyundai, lets give the Tucson way better visibility out the back and hybridize it, and Ill buy that next!

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  second time around with the hybrid - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By Richard - September 28 - 11:18 am

  Took delivery of my hybrid a little over one week ago. Prior to purchase I had been following the many reviews ,most of which were very high. I originally had four years in a 2011 hybrid limited. Which I would grade no higher than a B-. As soon as I test drove the 2016 I was amazed at the difference in the second generation hybrid. The quiet interior,smooth ride,seamless switching between battery and gas engine,are way over and above the 2011. First week out average about 39mpg 90% city driving. Did a reset to check highway mpg, got 48.5. I am quite pleased with the vehicle, and highly recommend purchase.

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  Definitely get this car - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By Treeman - September 11 - 10:30 am

  I owned previously a 2012 sonata limited. Cant believe how much quieter and how the ride quality has improved on this 2016 sonata limited hybrid, I just purchased. With a 50/50 mix of driving, have been averaging over 40mpg. Love the way the car drives, Hyundai keeps making improvements. Interior is so much nicer, leather seats and comfort way better than the 2012 limited. Cabin layout, controls easy to use. Numerous safety features included. Trunk space almost the same size as the 2012, with the new placement of the lithium battery where the spare tire used to be, rear seats fold for longer items if needed. Hyundai is offering great rebates, best to get a hybrid now before gas prices go back up. Hyundai has really outdone themselves with the features offered on this car, even the rear door windows have shades you can raise to block the sun. With Hyundais warranty, you cant go wrong. Had over 36,000 miles on my 2012 , never had any issues. Love the power memory seats.

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  The issue is MPG - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By ritpg - August 22 - 6:04 pm

  As the former owner of a 2003 Camry XLE, I would not say Hyundai is quite up the the Toyota standard. For example, the the buttons on the steering wheel feel flimsy compared to the Camry. There are times when some buttons have to pushed more than once to activate such as the unlock button on the driver side door. In the case of the Sonata hybrid, my conclusion is that this model was rushed to market and not ready for "prime time". The gas mileage has deteriorated significantly. There have been many service calls (all paid for by Hyundai). So far Hyundai is not standing behind this car as I continue to navigate through their service maze.

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  2011 Sonata Hybrid after 7 months - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By srcooper - July 13 - 3:54 pm

  Weve owned this car for seven months now. Im surprised at some of the negative reviews. My wife and I love this vehicle. We have been been stopped and questioned about the car. Everyone thinks it looks really cool. But that is not all. We have maintained 33-35mpg in local driving...and 35-42mpg on the highway. If you are going up hills, the gas mileage is less. If you have a heavy foot it will be less. However, it is not hard to increase the mileage with some smart driving. I have had the car go into the electric mode for several minutes at 70mph.

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  So far so good! - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By ded99 - July 12 - 1:40 pm

  I have about 2200 miles on the car. I have taken the car on a couple three hour highway trips, along with many miles around town. I can get the advertised mileage if it is driven carefully. I find that the highway mileage is a little lower when the cruise control is set. To be fair I was traveling between 70 and 75 during the bulk of the highway trip. I got about 38 to 39 mpg. I find that with the cruise control off I can keep the car in the electric mode longer, and seem to get mileage of over 40 mpg. I must admit however that I have always had a heavy right foot so this is actually very good. My wife has gotten 35+ mpg in town. So far very pleased.

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  Very Disappointed - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By j_m_m - March 14 - 7:39 pm

  I was very disappointed with the Sonata Hybrid. They advertise 40 mph highway, but I get about 32; the internal computer says I get about 35, though. When I asked about the discrepancy between my actual fuel consumption and the sumputers estimate, the dearship told me the computer was more accurate than the actual (not sure how thats possible). The interior is also very constrictive and not comfortable for anyone over 6 for anything more than about 30 minutes. The electric motor is very weak, only operating up until about 10 mph, and only kicking in after that during coasting. The accelerator is also very unresponsive, sometimes taking up to two seconds to kick in.