We know what the Sonata looks like, but this is the awaited Hybird model.
TFLcar reader Savva sent in these curious shots showing this camouflaged sedan. We originally thought it could be a GM model because it he spotted it with two GMC pickups. However, after closer investigation (and some more eagle-eyed readers chiming in), this is a preproduction 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.
I thought it could be a Chevrolet Malibu since it was spotted with two Sierras, but they may just have been a coincidence. Since the Sonata was revealed months ago, I simply discounted it as a possibility since I figured test mules wouldn’t be sporting this much camouflage. However, these may be older photos than we believed, and it could also be the upcoming Sonata Hybrid model.
The 2020 Hyundai Sonata is set to go on sale later in Fall 2019, around October timeframe. However, when we look at the car from the side, the wheels give it away as the Sonata Hybrid.
Hyundai just announced the Sonata Hybrid, actually, complete with a new solar roof option. The company contends the solar roof would add up to 800 miles of driving distance each year, depending on how much you drive and where you live. That does explain why we’d see this car testing in Las Vegas of all places, where it’s sunny. Hyundai could also test how the heat impacts the range, and whether the solar roof helps offset any losses.
We don’t have official EPA figures on range yet. However, we suspect this car will achieve mpg numbers in the mid-40s, if not better. We’ll have to wait and see when more official details become available. Pricing is also TBA at the moment, but we should know more soon.
Update 7/24/19: I originally reported that this could be a Chevy Malibu because, quite simply, I didn’t consider this car as Hyundai literally just revealed it. Sorry for the confusion!
