2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid – Test Drive, Reviews, Ratings, Specs

A Smooth Sailor and a Subtle Ride

Hybrids has probably hit the stone age in automotive years by now; but that hasn’t stopped automakers from continuing to push out and continuously refine a relished technology in efforts to save on fuel costs.

With that being said, lower EPA numbers is not the only driving force of increased sales and commitment. Regulations are pushing harder than ever towards reduced emissions, and on a marketing perspective, it’s a brand persona to show that Hyundai is a green(er) company.

Hyundai’s choice of market ammunition is the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Though its hybrid counterpart has been around for a few years, but the new one comes equipped with a more robust and better performing 2.0L DOHC 4 cylinder engine rather than a 2.4L Atkinson Cycle engine. Fuel efficiency is improved at 40/44 mpg in the city/highway as opposed to last year’s model rated at 36/40. Though horsepower rating is attenuated from 199 to 193, but that’s an understandable compromise for improved fuel economy.

Exquisite Design in a Comfy Package

There’s no denying in the fact that the Hyundai (and pretty much any specimen it produces) is a good looking car.  The front fascia employs a clean cut look with a unique polygonal shaped front grille, subtle headlamps augmented by a row of lower LED fog lights.  Side panels remain simple with relatively strait contours with a sharp and flat front silhouette to offer a clean; yet professional look.  Rear bumper carries on the simple looks with an integrated rear spoiler for enhanced visuals, LED tail lamps and a slim-line rear diffuser finished off with a hexagonal shaped chrome muffler tip.

Interior cabin space is overall positive.  Layered throughout the cabin area are a two tone creamy white and charcoal gray panels that are solid and soft to the touch.  Decorated throughout are also polished mahogany wood for enhanced looks and feel.  Center console remains clean with a flat deck of mostly buttons with audio and climate controls accessed through its large 8″ infotainment display.

Comfort amenities also include heated steering wheel.  Both front and rear seats are also heated as well.  Upper models including the Limited and Ultimate spices up interior and exterior features including a panoramic sunroof, upgraded 17″ wheels from 16″ on the standard Hybrid model, heated side mirrors, and 9 speaker Infinity sound system.

On the Road

Under the hood of the Sonata Hybrid is a 2.0L “Nu” GDI 4-cylinder engine + 38 kW electric motor with its engine producing 154 horsepower and and 140 ft.lbs of torque.  Combined with the 38kW motor, overall power output is 193 horsepower.

The numbers clearly indicate that it’s not a performance beast, and driving the Sonata Hybrid shows exactly that.  As a matter of fact, power feels undermined and sluggish when accelerating.  And perhaps it’s the heavier curb weight of 1600 kg is to be blamed.  Throttle lift off also lags to cut off torque, leaving an impression of a momentarily uncontrolled feeling.

The ride is generally smooth and the cabin space remains quiet thanks to its well insulated paneling.  Hyundai also claims to have improved the performance handling by transitioning from using steel to aluminum suspension parts.  Even so, there isn’t much hope for performance handling around turns with the Hyundai Sonata as the suspensions are simply not tuned; or capable thereof, to maintain balance and composure around corners.

Despite the lost hopes for any driving enthusiasm, the Hyundai Sonata still makes a great city car.  It’s got fresh looks, a beautifully crafted interior and high marks in fuel efficiency.  And speaking strictly of performance capability, there aren’t, if any, hybrids out there that are performance oriented (yet).  With that said, it’s not fair to lash out on the Sonata for not breaking the barrier.

The basic Hyundai Sonata Hybrid can be had for $29,649 while the upper Limited and Ultimate MSRP are priced in at $33,799 and $37,499.  For more financially conscious buyers, it’s a safer bet to stick with the lower Hybrid and Limited models while still enjoying the majority of luxury amenities and standard features it has to offer.  The Sonata Ultimate is still priced well for added features including ventilated front seats, Bi-Xenon Headlights, and 8/6 way adjustable driver/passenger seats if those options are an interest.  But ricocheting back to the fact that the Hybrid tech has been around for quite a while, this also means there are plenty of alternative solutions including the Toyota Prius, Mazda 6, Ford Focus and even the lower models of luxury brands including the Lexus ES300h.

Specifications

• Vehicle : 2016 Hyundai Sonata
• Model : Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
• Vehicle Type : Sedan
• Seating Capacity : 2+3
• Powertrain Configuration : FWD
• Engine : 2.0L DOHC 4
• Transmission : 6 Speed Automatic
• Fuel Economy: 40/44 MPG city/highway

 

Pros

• Impressive Fuel Economy
• Excellent build quality inside out
• Exquisite Design inside out
• Quiet cabin space

 

Cons

• No hope for driving enthusiasm
• Highest model enters luxury hybrid category