Let’s get this out there right at the beginning: I’m not the biggest fan of hybrids.
But my recent stint behind the wheel of the 2016 Sonata Hybrid Limited is beginning to change my mind.
Now in its second generation, this Sonata version is not only responsive, it delivers an exhilarating drive while simultaneously providing an environmentally friendly city/highway combined 41 miles per gallon rating by the EPA. That’s a 10-percent increase!
Sonata Hybrid continues to visually differentiate itself from the rest of the lineup with purposely unique wheels and both front and rear fascia changes that improve aerodynamics.
At the heart of this hybrid beats a downsized, 2.0-liter, Nu GDI, four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that houses a more powerful 38kW electric motor and clutch where the torque converter would normally be found.
Sonata Hybrid’s Nu engine produces 154 horsepower and 140 lb. ft. of torque. The electric motor produces 38kW (51 horsepower) and 151 lb. ft. of torque. Hybrid system net power is 193 horsepower at 6,000 rpm.
The lithium-polymer battery pack capacity is 1.62 kWh, a 13-percent improvement, and the battery pack now fits under the trunk floor, which allows for a flat trunk floor as well as available 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Yes, plenty of room for golf clubs and bags – another reason to like this hybrid.
Frankly, it felt like I was driving a normal, gas powered engine. And add this somewhat amazing factoid: It is possible for Sonata Hybrid to operate solely on electric power at speeds up to 75 mph by decoupling the gasoline engine from the rest of the drivetrain.
The Sonata hybrid also delivers the convenient technology one would expect in a luxury vehicle. Hyundai’s hands-free “Smart Trunk” is now available on the hybrid as well as an electronic parking brake with automatic vehicle hold, a driver-memory seat, rear-window sunshades, heated steering wheel, LED interior lights, ventilated front seats, power front seats with four-way adjustable driver lumbar and “Smart Cruise Control” featuring full-stop capability.
It also comes standard with seven airbags, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, traction control, ABS and a tire-pressure monitoring system with individual tire-pressure display and rearview camera. Projector headlamps are standard, while HID headlamps are available.
No longer reserved for luxury cars, advanced safety technologies such as forward collision warning, blind spot detection with rear-cross traffic alert, lane-change assist and a lane-departure warning system are all available in this midsize sedan.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention creature comforts including multimedia. The Sonata goodie bag includes an eight-inch navigation system with a map and music split-screen, Infinity premium audio system that was top-notch, Bluetooth, XM satellite radio, HD radio with iPod/USB and auxiliary input jacks. Next generation BlueLink telematics are also added.
2016 SONATA HYBRID LIMITED
BASE PRICE: $30,100
AS TESTED: $31,050
Base price includes destination charge. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. Prices may vary at local dealerships.
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