If you are in search for a fuel-efficient car, you’re in the company of legions of Americans. With fuel prices surging well above $4 per gallon, the search for efficiency is on.
A growing list of full-electric vehicles is available. But we know most people prefer the convenience and affordability of a gas-powered model, therefore finding the most efficient one is an important quest. The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid might just be the right vehicle for some as it combines a gas engine with an electric motor to deliver outstanding fuel efficiency. Read on and we’ll explore this model.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Overview
Hyundai introduced the Sonata hybrid in 2011. At times, there has also been a plug-in variant, but today the standard hybrid is it.
The most recent model underwent a full redesign in 2020. With it, Hyundai improved the hybrid’s fuel economy, enlarged the trunk, and supplied a larger touch screen display. There were no notable changes in 2021. For 2022, the Sonata Hybrid gained available remote parking assist and dynamic voice recognition.
What drives the Sonata Hybrid?
Hyundai equips the Sonata Hybrid with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine making 192 net horsepower. It works with a 39 kW permanent magnet high power density motor. Power routes to the front wheels utilizing a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The most efficient version of the Sonata Hybrid is its “Blue” edition. This one earns 50 miles per gallon in the city, 54 mpg on the highway, for a combined 52 mpg. All other versions earn a still-respectable 45/51/47 mpg.
By the Trims
Hyundai offers the Sonata Hybrid in Blue, SEL, and Limited trims. Prices start at $27,350 and reach near $37,000. Add $1,045 for the destination charge.
Sonata Hybrid Blue ($27,350)
Hyundai equips the hybrid with standard LED headlights and hidden LED daytime running lights. This model also has LED taillights, an automatic power-opening trunk, and a rear spoiler.
Inside, this model comes with full power accessories and a push-button start. Dual automatic temperature control, cloth seats, and a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat are included.
On the tech front, this model comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. A 6-speaker audio system, HD Radio, satellite radio, and USB connectivity come standard.
In the tech arena, Hyundai supplies the Sonata Hybrid with a long list of driver-assist technologies. These include forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection and forward automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert are standard. This model also has lane departure warning, lane keep assist, automatic high beam headlights, and driver attention monitoring. A rear-seat reminder and safe exit assist are also included.
Sonata Hybrid SEL ($30,100)
Move up to the SEL trim and this one comes with upgraded wheels and heated side mirrors. Inside, heated seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driver seat, and a four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat are standard. Also, Hyundai wraps the steering wheel in leather, adds wireless device charging, and supplies an additional USB port. A 12-speaker Bose audio system is included.
Sonata Hybrid Limited ($35,700)
The range-topping Limited edition pulls out all the stops. The most significant changes are inside and include full leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, and an imitation leather dashboard.
This trim also has a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen display with navigation. A heated steering wheel, a solar roof, and a rear center armrest are included.
This trim also brings in the remainder of the available driver-assist safety features. These elements include reverse automatic emergency braking, highway driving assist, front and rear parking sensors, and a blind-spot camera. Rear parking assist and a head-up display are other features of note.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Considerations
The Sonata Hybrid delivers tremendous value, especially these days with high fuel prices as the norm. It is priced at $2,850 above the cost of a base Sonata sedan, but it is a better-equipped model. Indeed, the Blue has many of the features shoppers want in a midsize sedan, therefore we believe it is worth considering.
See Also — Hyundai Ioniq 5: All-New EV
Photos courtesy of Hyundai Motors.
