Following a full redesign for the Hyundai Sonata's gasoline powered variants for 2015, the Sonata Hybrid gets a redraw for 2016 into its second generation that includes a plug-in version that gives the car some electric vehicle functionality. Meanwhile, the gasoline model gets new standard and optional convenience and safety features, lighter-weight aluminum suspension parts, and a trimmed-down model lineup.
The all-new Sonata Hybrid pairs a 2.0L four-cylinder engine with an electric motor. Standard models get a new, smaller battery pack that fits under the trunk floor, while a plug-in model has a larger battery that takes up more space but allows the car to travel up to about 40 km on electricity alone on a full-charge.
Standard hybrid models boast 193 total horsepower, while plug-in versions are rated at 202 hp.
Gasoline models start out with a 2.4L four-cylinder making 185 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, with the option of a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder good for 245 hp and 260 lb-ft.
Gasoline and hybrid powertrains share a six-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel consumption ratings are 9.4/6.5 L/100 km (city/highway) for 2.4L models, except for Sport and Limited trims, whose ratings are 10.0/7.0; cars with the 2.0L motor are rated 10.4/7.4. Hybrid ratings are 5.9/5.3 L/100 km, while the Hybrid Limited is rated at 6.0/5.5.
Gas-powered Sonatas start at $24,749, but the $27,349 GLS is a more interesting push-off point, with features like blind spot detection with rear cross traffic alert, rear park assist, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, intelligent keyless entry, and power-adjustable driver and front passenger seats.
By the time you reach the $35,699 Ultimate 2.0T model, you've got the strong turbo motor, navigation, leather seating, and a raft of safety kit that includes forward collision warning with a new-for-2016 autonomous emergency braking function.
Hybrid models are available with the same niceties as their gas-only siblings, with prices starting at $29,649, and ranging to $43,999 for the plug-in model.
