The 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid seemingly has all the right stuff, but quirky driving dynamics keep it from being a top contender among fuel-efficient hybrid-powered family sedans.
The Hyundai Sonata is a midsize sedan that competes with the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Ford Fusion in the crowded family-car segment. The five-seat Sonata was redesigned last year and received much more distinctive styling and better gas mileage.
Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics system is now standard, and the Limited trim gains a three-piece panoramic moonroof. There’s also a newly available 7-inch touch-screen navigation system with HD Radio.
Exterior
The Sonata’s sloping roof shows glimpses of the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class and Volkswagen CC, yet it’s distinctive enough to stand out among direct competitors like the Camry and Accord. Exterior features include:
- Standard 16-inch steel wheels
- Available 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels
- Wide chrome grille
- Extensive chrome trim
The first non-plug-in hybrid with next generation lithium polymer battery technology. The first ever lifetime battery warranty. Get best-in-class highway fuel economy without sacrificing a single horse of power.
If you want the technology and fuel savings a hybrid car provides, but are still on a budget, reviewers say the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is your best choice, since its base price is less than most of the competition. A lengthy warranty, upscale interior, composed handling and good acceleration also add to the Sonata Hybrid’s value.
A few of the Sonata Hybrid’s drawbacks include fuel economy ratings that aren’t as good as some key competitors, a distracting fuel efficiency display and Hyundai’s Blue eco mode, which test drivers say makes the car lethargic.
Interior
Hyundai significantly updated the Sonata’s interior for the 2009 model year with better materials. Although the cabin was redesigned last year, materials quality was unchanged; it’s still competitive but doesn’t notably raise the bar for the class, which is already fairly high. Interior features include:
- Standard satellite radio
- Standard Blue Link telematics system
- Standard Bluetooth connectivity
- Standard auxiliary and iPod inputs
- Available touch-screen navigation system
Blue Link™
Blue Link technology is designed with a multitude of features to make your everyday life easier. Connect to Blue Link through your smartphone, a web application or an in-car system to locate a gas station, find a shortcut, learn about mechanical issues, call for help and much more.
For more information , visit Hyundai Website
