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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Really Surprised - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By B.Depasquale - March 24 - 11:43 pmI owned the 2013 Sonata Hybrid Limited. It had great pick up and handling with good gas mileage. It had just reached the 36,000 mile mark and I usually buy a new car by this point but, I was so happy with the 2013 that I didnt see any reason to change. Just for fun I agreed to drive the 2016 Sonata Hybrid Limited. I was really surprised at how many upgrades Hyundai had made with this model. Beautiful interior and even passenger side electric seats that heat and cool were added. I dont think the pick up is as good as 2013 but... improved gas mileage, heated steering wheel and multiple warning devices make this car amazing. A little light came on to tell me the pavement was at freezing temperatures. I lowered my speed. Another light came on to remind me to take my foot off of the accelerator. The navi system tells you what the speed limit is for the street you are on. Ok, as much as I loved the 2013, this 2016 is even better with a panoramic roof. It feels like luxury without the price tag. You will be really surprised when you drive this car.
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Nice quiet & smooth ride. - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By Bing - February 23 - 8:17 pmI love the looks & body lines of this car. I have received many compliments. The limited with ultimate package offers many features that would cost thousands more from other manufactures. Mileage as been from 40 mpg to 46 mpg depending on how I drive and what gas I use. Lower octane gas with ethanol gets lower gas mileage. The vehicle is very quiet, smooth, comfortable, ride. My 40 minute commute is much more comfortable in the Sonata then in my previous 2012 Toyota Prius 4. There is a lot more room. The audio, phone, & GPS controls work well although they dont always work flawlessly with my I-phone 5. I dont always like how the car shifts. At times it shifts awkwardly in the 2nd & 3rd gears. I dont regret this purchase.
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Great Value for the Money - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By Lori Menicos - February 11 - 8:35 amI traded in a 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE for this 2016 Sonata Hybrid Limited. I liked my Toyota but I love this Sonata Hybrid! It has features of higher end cars (ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, etc). It rides almost like a luxury car and Im getting 44 MPG around town and Ive only had it a week. Its fun to drive too and has plenty of pickup. It was a great value for the price. I looked at and test drove a 2017 Camry Hybrid and a 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid but the Sonata won out due to the price, features and handling.
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Amazing Car - 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
By forrest53@hotmail.com - February 3 - 4:35 pmI have been a diehard Nissan and toyota fan for 15+ years. I wasnt looking for a hybrid just and economical daily driver, I test drove chevy, GMC and buick and ford cars and suvs, but then When I drove this and everyday since purchasing it I have been amazed.
