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2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Proves Slick and Efficient
We’ve just started testing the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, and so far it’s proving to be a welcome addition to our test fleet. The regular Sonata bowed in its current iteration back in the summer of 2014, but it took a year for Hyundai to phase in the hybrid. It’s good they took their time because the previous-generation Sonata Hybrid, which we tested in 2011, was pretty much a flop, with fuel economy barely better than the conventional version and annoyingly rough transitions between electric and gasoline propulsion.
Following a brief stint in a rented Sonata Plug-In Hybrid earlier this year, we purchased a less costly mid-trim SE in standard hybrid form, which rang in at a reasonable $26,950.
This time around the hybrid powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter four cylinder augmented by an electric motor, a pairing that yields 193 horsepower. A compact lithium-ion battery, tucked between the rear seat and trunk, motivates the electric drive system. Unlike many other hybrids, which employ some type of continuously variable automatic (CVT), the Sonata uses a conventional six-speed automatic. That’s turning out to be a sound decision.
Our hybrid Sonata takes off smartly and quietly, aided by the electric motor’s instant torque delivery. The gas engine wakes up in due course, and when it does, the transition is unobtrusive except for some added thrum if you keep your foot down on the pedal.
This car maximizes electric operation, typically remaining in electric mode up to 20 mph, so long as you use a light touch on the throttle. But at any opportunity that presents itself, such as when coasting, it’ll shut off the engine and sail along in electric mode—so long, that is, as you’re coasting at less than 75 mph. Ask for more power and unlike with other hybrids, which let their CVTs provoke a sudden bump in engine noise, the Sonata’s six-speed delivers the added oomph with an unobtrusive downshift or two.
So far we’ve been observing 40 mpg overall— impressive for a midsized sedan. That also translates into a 600-mile-plus driving range on a tank of gas, a domain occupied only by diesels and some other hybrids.
Ride comfort is a strong suit, as well. The Sonata Hybrid rides very comfortably, with the pliant suspension smoothing out even the worst pavement. This ride is every bit as comfortable as a Toyota Camry Hybrid and steadier than the Honda Accord Hybrid.
On the handling front, the Sonata corners soundly but it’s not particularly agile or sporty. Those yearning for both sporty and green should opt for the hybrid version of the Ford Fusion.
Like the regular Sonata, the hybrid boasts a roomy cabin with a very commodious rear seat. Unfortunately, if you get the SE and not the $30,000-plus Limited, you can’t get a power seat or any type of adjustable lumbar support. Omissions like that are rare for Hyundai, and a pretty big oversight since you feel the lack of lumbar support after about 20 minutes behind the wheel.
Unlike the Honda Accord Hybrid, the Sonata’s drive battery doesn’t hog much trunk space. As with most hybrid sedans, though, the rear seat loses its ability to fold down and create more cargo space as a packaging concession.
This second-generation Sonata Hybrid shows huge progress from the initial attempt. This package delivers a compelling combination of frugal fuel consumption, generous interior space, quiet cabin, and comfortable ride—all for less than $27,000.
Stay tuned for our complete road test, when we’ll see how this car stacks up against other midsized fuel sippers.
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