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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  My Sonata Hybrid is a major disappointment - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By bnaiman - October 5 - 1:37 am

  I previously had a Toyota Camry Hybrid that I consistanly got 31 mpg in town. My new Sonata gives me about 22 to 24 mpg. I have had it in 3 times and they always tell me that everything is performing as it should and that I am the only one who has complained. I was also told by a mechanic that I could do just as well with the regular Sonata for les money. I made a terrible mistake in buying this car but for them to tell me that they have not had any complaints is an insult.

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  terrible experience - 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By gesiggie - January 15 - 1:21 pm

  I 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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  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.

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  Worst car purchase decision I have ever made - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By nohyndai - September 5 - 10:56 am

  I have had my hybrid sonata 3 months. It has just over 2000 miles on it and has been in for service twice. It has had all the recall fixes. The check engine light goes on and the dealership keeps claiming I am not tightening the gas cap. It also gets 18 mpg based on gas tank fillup. I am terrified of getting rear-ended as the engine sputters out when on curved inclines when you deaccelarate. The engine just cuts out. The closest Hyundai service department is 45 minutes away and they do not provide drop off service or loaner cars. So I have to take a day off of work, or drop the car off the previous evening and pay to rent a car. This is to remedy their errors! A definite lemon.

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  Hyundai Sonata Hybrid... Deceptive Advertisement - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By James - March 3 - 9:54 pm

  Im another victim of Hyundais deceptive advertising practices. Their advertised mileage was so far from from the truth and actual mileage (city & highway) that Im embarrassed to own one. However, Im happy to inform others of how unhappy I am with my so called economical hybrid to prevent them from buying a LIE. My car looks nice, but thats the only nice comment I have about it... the transmission shifts very hard and the engine is extremely slow to accelerate, especially when you need that little boost of power to enter a highway. Steering is too sensitive and you feel every little bump in the road. Please learn from my mistake and keep searching for your next vehicle. I thought that I had done my homework, but I was mislead by the far fetched mileage advertised on the new car window sticker... I will NEVER buy another vehicle from this auto manufacturer.

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  I hate my Sonata Hybrid - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By txteacher1 - August 3 - 1:09 am

  We bought this car for me since I am on the road more than my husband. The gas mileage is significantly lower than promised. I am so disappointed since that is the major reason we purchased this car. My husband drives it now. We like the back up camera (we bought the top model) and the sun roof is a wow factor...but in the hot Texas sun we havent really used it except at night. It sits low so big bumps/dips scrap the bottom. We spent more money on this car because the promised gas mileage ( saleman said) I wish I had made a different choice. The dealer has told us tough luck on the 22mpg...we are stuck with it-or take the lost trading it.

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  Avoid This Car - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By rffines - May 12 - 11:11 pm

  From the day of delivery, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid has been nothing but trouble. In order of occurrence: 1. Sputters an hesitates violently from 0 - 45mph in any and all conditions. (Hyundai dealer and Hyundai Consumer Affairs say): Get used to it, thats how hybrids perform. The salesman never mentioned that the car will perform like its running out of gas. 2. Intermittent stalling: Car stalls w/o warning in both city and highway traffic. This problem has caused 3 near-miss accidents. (Hyundai response): It didnt stall during a test drive - its running as expected. 3. Extremely poor mileage: 22 highway/19 city. Hyundai says engine needs break-in. Hyundai does not care!!!

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  Buyer Beware - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By chubeck - February 2 - 2:00 am

  Buying this car was one of the biggest mistakes I have ever made. It has been a huge disappointment. More importantly, it is unsafe and extremely dangerous to drive! The car has completely died on me twice. Once it happened on the 110 Freeway in Los Angeles and the second was on a busy parkway. The car just shuts off, literally STOPS! The "Check Charging System" light comes on and a warning chime sounds. The car does not switch to gas, but just stops running. I have had two near accidents with the car and cannot trust it.

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  Worst Decision I have ever made - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By hp124 - September 1 - 11:44 am

  I purchased the 2011 Hybrid Hyundai Sonata 2 months ago and it has been nothing but a headache for me. I have had the car in the shop now almost every weekend since I bought it because of new issues that keep arising. The gas tank is a huge issue, and Hyundai seems to have no idea what is actually going on with it. They have "fixed" it 3 times now and I am still having issues. I am currently getting around 23 miles to the gallon (glad I spent the extra 6 grand to get a hybrid) and I also think I might be leaking fuel as well. (I filled up my car 2 days ago and have driven 100 miles and already have less than a half tank) The computer system in the car looks great, but it cannot even begin to function. The average fuel economy cannot calculate itself at all, it has continuous glitches that keep popping up (which is why my car is currently in the shop) I also just recently received a recall notice on this car a week ago, but it was a "fix" I already had done and it did not fix the issue. In contrast my problems have actually been worse since having this "repair". I think Hyundai had the right idea with this car and I think it is gorgeous, but I also believe they tried to rush the production on this model.

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  My 2011 Sonata Hybrid is a piece of junk - 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
  By sonatasux - July 11 - 10:24 am

  Bought mine in May 2011, I have given this car every opportunity to be satisfying to me, BUT...Its a PIECE! Will be taking back to my l dealer for the 3rd time tomorrow since "check engine" light is back on AGAIN. Heres whats been wrong so far in 3 LONG months of ownership and 9,000 miles: Gas tank issues, it wont let me put a FULL tank of gas in it you can pump SLOWLY 5 more gallons in it after the pump handle clicks indicating its full. Strip of plastic along entire roof is coming off. Surge/Sluggish/Jerks u back & forth while accelerating(dealer says its normal!) power sunroof stops midway, wont close all way, clunky front suspension noise on drivers side. Wish I had my G35 back!