The midsize sedan is taking a hit, as crossovers are the bigger business now. However, do not tell that to Hyundai which released the latest version of its midsize Sonata last year.
This version shed its more conservative style for a handsome new svelte body that looks more like a pricey luxury car than it used to. I drove the hybrid version, and other than some space-age looking wheels and the hybrid decals, it sports the same handsome look as the normal version of the new Sonata.
With a combined 192 HP, the Sonata Hybrid will keep most drivers satisfied. Its normal automatic transmission is a departure for the usual economy minded CVT, which I was thankful not to see. The Sonata Hybrid is a comfortable cruiser with pleasant manners on the road. The suspension soaks-up bumps nicely and while not exciting on back roads, it feels like the new Sonata connects to the road more than before.
The Sonata Hybrid Limited I drove trades off some MPG for a more luxurious interior. The Limited comes with leather-trimmed heated and ventilated seats and even a heated leather steering wheel. The large 10.25-inch touchscreen is a nice addition with clear high-quality graphics — a step up from the previous Sonata. The normal gauges are also gone in favor of a 12.3-inch screen with virtual gauges and some nifty features you cannot get in other cars in its class.
Cost: As tested $35,300
MPG: 45 mpg city and 51 mpg highway; I managed 48.6 mpg in 279 miles of mixed driving.
Safety: forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection; highway driving assist; blind-spot collision avoidance assist; lane keeping assist; lane flowing assist; high beam assist; smart cruise control with stop & go; front & rear parking distance warning; driver attention warning; rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist; surround view monitor, blind-spot view monitor, safe exit warning, rear occupant alert
Things to know: The redesigned Hyundai Sonata Hybrid has grown in size and is more fuel efficient than before. Technology such as a solar roof and a blind-spot monitor that you see in the dash really stand out.
Pros:
- Fuel efficient sedan
- Comes packed with safety equipment and technology in Limited trim level
- A stylish new look that is handsome and aerodynamic
Cons:
- The top-of-the-line Limited trim level is a bit pricey
- Slightly more noise in the cabin at higher speeds
- Push-button shifter takes some time to learn
