In the hybrid vehicle segment, the 2017 Sonata Hybrid presents its own compelling case of features and value with its spacious interior and seats that are good for the long haul, a smooth highway ride with minimal road noise, user-friendly entertainment/navigation interface, and excellent crash test ratings.
This Sonata Hybrid, with the Limited trim, is powered by a 2.0-liter engine paired with an electric motor, a combination that yields 193 horsepower. Power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. Energy captured from regenerative braking is stored in a trunk-mounted lithium-ion battery pack.
It accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds, an average pace for the class. Estimated fuel economy is 40 mpg combined rating (38 city/43 highway).
Like the regular Sonata, the interior features the same clean, hexagonal center stack array housing the infotainment display and controls and climate controls. Materials quality and fit and finish are excellent, and you'll find plenty of storage space for personal effects. The cabin is roomy and comfortable. The seats are supportive and nicely padded, and the cabin itself is remarkably quiet.
Standard features include 17-inch wheels, automatic xenon headlights, fog lights, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, leather upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, ventilated front seats, heated front and rear seats, an eight-way power driver seat, a six-way power front passenger seat, driver memory settings, wood-grain-look interior accents, rear-seat climate control vents, 60-/40-split fold-down rear seats and manual rear window sunshades.
The Limited includes the Sport's features, but trades the sporty chrome and carbon fiber styling accents for a more refined look. It also adds unique 17-inch alloy wheels, LED taillights, leather upholstery, wood grain trim, a six-way power passenger seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear seat vents, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Driver aids include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems.
Also included are a rearview camera, a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, Hyundai's Blue Link telematics and emergency communications, and a six-speaker audio system with a CD player, HD radio, a USB interface and an auxiliary input.