Fast Take: 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a Smooth Operator

2013 hyundai sonata hybrid limited rear tail

I recently had an opportunity to drive the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited during the annual RMDE road rally event.  My time in the driver’s seat was brief, but it gave me a chance to get acquainted with Hyundai’s latest hybrid.

 

STATS Starting Retail Price As Tested Price HP / Lb-Ft
2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited $30,550 $32,490 199 hp
EPA Rating MPG As Tested MPG
  36/40 Combined 37 na

What struck me the most was the easy and ordinary driving experience of the Sonata Hybrid.  Unlike most of its competitors, Sonata uses a conventional 6-speed automatic transmission (not a CVT).  The gear changes are smooth and the transitions between the electric and gasoline motors are as seamless as on the best from Lexus.   The interior is comfortable, roomy, and material quality is good.  I could see my family taking this car on a road trip: scoring great fuel economy and doing so in comfort (just like we did in a Toyota Camry Hybrid).

Hyundai cannot rest after improving the 2013 Sonata Hybrid.  Honda just announced the 2014 Accord Hybrid with 47 MPG combined rating.  Ford Fusion Energi claims the same.  Hyundai has a solid platform in the 2013 Sonata Hybrid and they can continue to improve.

Enjoy this fun TFLcar 0-60 MPH review of this Sonata Hybrid:

Andre Smirnov
Andre Smirnov

Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been a contributor at TFLcar since 2011. When not working or spending time with the family – you can find him tinkering in the garage or scouring the internet and other media for various automotive, mechanical, and computer related information.