Alex On Autos car Reviews: 5 stars Other car reviews (CNET, Everyman Driver, KBB, Fastlane Car, etc): 3-3.5 stars Car sales person doing a review of the car he/she is selling: 1.5 star "Complete" reviews by individuals who visit the dealership armed with a smartphone camera: 0.5 star Thanks for your extensive knowledge on cars. It empowers everyone! Please keep it coming...
I want to say thank you for this review, I got a 2016 Plug-In Hybrid Limited with 36k miles on it after I totaled my 2017 Mazda3 GT I appreciate your honest approach and how you compare this car to other brands rather than just talking about the Hyundai.
Older video but very well done Alex. I enjoy you not shouting at me and really delivering a high level of information in a short amount of time. A lot of work went into this. I just bought a 2017 Sonata PHEV and while I should have watched this first, I now feel happy that I made a good choice.
Alex the comparison at the end was very interesting. And I never understood the difference in the the way the hybrids actually operated and how different they were from each other. Great job ALEX!!
Alex, I haven't been in the market for a few years so I haven't checked out many of your recent videos, which I've always appreciated. Now I have to say that the annotation as contents is one of the most impressive RUclips innovations I've ever seen. If you haven't patented it already, you really should consider it.
Thank you so much for this video. You have great diction, and I wasn't distracted by imperfect intonations, pauses, or weird tics even once. The video is very well thought out. I watched it from the beginning to end without losing focus. Only relevant information, and only objective (from what I can tell) comparisons with the closest competitors. This was really useful to me, thank you! The only improvement is you could do a stand-alone plug-in hybrid review =)
I have this 2017 sonata limited hev. It does not have the steering wheel heating. Furthermore, the battery gauge never went above 1/2. Shouldn't it have a fully charged battery and steering wheel heat? The best mpg is basically around 32 city. Yet even lower since getting my own doughnut spare + jack.
I'm surprised that you would pick the Accord Hybrid over the Sonata based on the 10 mpg difference ( instead of the Honda's because of the Honda's better handling for instance ). The mpg difference per year based on 15k miles would be $75. I suppose to some that savings would be important but the perceived advantages of the Sonata in your review ( refined power delivery, ride, trunk space come to mind ) would be more important to me ( and this is from someone who appreciates efficiency too ). I didn't do that math but I wonder how the Sonata's break-even time ( vs the ECO let's say ) would compare to Honda's Hybrid vs the reg. Accord?
+Ronald Coniglio With current gas prices most hybrids wouldn't break even. But if you buy a car for efficiency (and not necessarily absolute cost) then you enjoy a car more if it has best mpg. Similar buying a Prius over a base Corolla. I think that is what is meant. Sure they are other factors but that's a personal preference. Accord Hybrid is not refreshed so right now you don't even have the option to buy one unless you can still find a '15 model somewhere. They are skipping a model year I believe.
Excellent review, as always. Thank you, Alex! Hopefully, Honda will infuse some additional refinements into their 2016 Accord Hybrid model (I look forward to your review), so that it can continue to be the best mid-size hybrid across wider spectrum of dimensions (and I hope that they will keep the 2015's front end / grille design). However, I do like this car almost as well.
if this one gets 45 or above, I will get this one over Accord with CVT but 9 difference is too much. But I am considering Kia Niro, which is way cheaper than both Accord and Sonata but manages to get 50+.....
Great review Alex! I was shopping around in real world, the Accord hybrid cost around $28000 however, Sonata Hybrid Limited can be purchased around $22000 with all kinds of discounts. plus Hyundai offers Hybrid battery lifetime warranty. I think this Sonata is clear winner in the industry isn't it? Also Accord interior looks cheap everywhere compare to Sonata. If you can buy this Sonata Hybrid Limited model at $22000, would you still pick Accord over Sonata?
i bought a first year model of the 2006 generation sonata and kind of regretted the fact that they made a few improvements the year after that squelched my gripes. what gripes aside from the handling and fuel economy did you have with this vehicle? I'm looking at getting the plug in.
Hi Alex. Thank you for the great in-depth video. It is very thorough and detailed. I find all your videos very entertaining. Do you know why Hyundai does not allow to display the speed in km/h for US models?
The biggest disappointment here is how Hyundai fitted a BIG battery in the PHEV version (9.8kWh is large vs. the 7.6kWh in the Ford) but saddled it with a scooter-sized electric motor. This means the battery will last a long range but with only 67hp (50kw) on tap that 24 mile EV range is more bragging right exercise than useful in real world. Compare that to the Fusion Energi which has a 118hp (88kw) electric motor or Accord Plug-in 166hp (124kw) unit, you'll even be honked at by hypermiling Prius drivers before you can get up to speed.
***** That's even worse that Hyundai don't even give you the option of EV lockout mode: Ford has this in the Fusion Energi where even when floored the gas engine will STAY OFF but a prompt will show on-screen which if you press OK on the steering wheel the engine will fire. This means you can actually do a full EV commute with a 20 mile radius, something that you will have to feather the throttle in the Sonata to achieve if what you say is true. In my mind, a PHEV should be primarily a EV with hybrid capability once the charge runs out. The Chevy Volt does this best, but for regular Hybrids converted to PHEV will need AT LEAST 100hp minimum to be remotely useful. Remember most PHEVs weigh close to 4000lbs. While 67hp may be enough to propel an Accent at a decent rate, a midsizer with ~500lbs of batteries on-board simply isn't enough, especially if the Forced EV mode can be overridden if the throttle is depressed too hard.
Another great review, Alex! How was the fit and finish of the Sonata Hybrid? Other reviewers have commented negatively on it (especially the panoramic sunroof, saying it squeaks when the car flexes). Did you notice this?
+Tom Eisenmenger I actually thought the fit and finish was good. Many cars squeak when the car has a large torsional load on them but I didn't notice that in the Sonata either.
+Alex on Autos Good to hear! I'll have to consider the Sonata hybrid when it's time to buy-I love their solution for the trunk space problem. Hoping the next Accord Hybrid has a similar solution since that's my preferred ride.
As a hybrid owner I will not buy another one. My choice would be something like the Cruze, because it costs only 17,000 and 5.3 cents/mile. If I bought a Prius or Sonata costing 8 grand more and 4 c/mile, then it would take OVER 600,000 MILES FOR GAS SAVINGS TO COVER THE HYBRID PRICETAG. Even if gasoline doubled in current prices, it would still take 300,000 miles to reach the break-even point . The Chevy Cruze (or similar lowcost car) simply makes more sense from a financial standpoint .
electrictroy2010 It's not all about cost effectiveness - there are other issues at play (environmental concerns and performance - yes, performance - for example). Also, suggesting a Cruse to folks who obviously want a car that can comfortably seat 5 adults doesn't make much sense - apples and oranges.
Another great choice of car for this week, Alex. I read somewhere that Hyundai gives lifetime battery warranty on their hybrid and plug in Sonata - can you please confirm? and if that's true, this would be the best in the segment.
great review, I just bought 2016 plug in and I love it. I have a question on how to smart drive this car, what I am doing is switching to EV MODE only when I am in city or traffic. and hybrid when I drive on freeway, and I switch on ev mod as much as I can to save gas, this game gives me an about 88mpg combined! ! I think by thing it i save more comparing to driving in hybrid mode, and suggestions?
That sounds like the best way to drive it, maximize the EV capability at low speeds and switch the hybrid when you're at sustained higher speeds. How is the car? Does yours have the panoramic sunroof? I've heard that feature gets noisy over bumps in the road.
Has it been reliable? Mine has a bad habit of not charging overnight. I am guessing this has happened two times a month since ownership. And then two times completely failed to charge--forcing me to bring it to the dealer. So far, it has spent 50 days in the shop fixing this issue.
Alex, thank you for your review. I think Honda is not offering a 2016 Accord Hybrid. Also the MPG of these hybrids are greatly lowered in cold climates. Although this could be due to running the cabin heater nonstop.
+bird271828 That's what I found with our '14 Accord Hybrid. During mild weather when no cabin heat (and to a lesser degree, cooling) is needed it's relatively easy to see 50mpg average just driving around easily on the flats. But in cold weather the engine obviously must run more and longer to produce that heat. During such times driving around town and up hills and down average mileage can get below 40mpg. Still nothing to be ashamed of but in comparison it's a big change. Finally, the Accord is also pretty darned nice to drive and fun!
As a hybrid owner I will not buy another one. My choice would be something like the Cruze, because it costs only 17,000 and 5.3 cents/mile. If I bought a Prius or Sonata costing 8 grand more and 4 c/mile, then it would take OVER 600,000 MILES FOR GAS SAVINGS TO COVER THE HYBRID PRICETAG. Even if gasoline doubled in current prices, it would still take 300,000 miles to reach the break-even point . The Chevy Cruze simply makes more sense from a financial standpoint .
Alex, As you tested so many hybrids, do you have any intention to make a cross comprasion, among hybrids of accord, fusion, camry, sonata, and even jetta.especially compare their economy and performance.
+Alex on Autos recently, Chvy introduced their Malibu hybrid, claimed a 48-city, 45-hwy fuel numbers, do you have plan to review it and put it in your cross comparison?
Great review, Alex. I do want to point out something. At this moment, the Limited versions of the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid do not come with Android Auto, only non-hybrid models get it. I purchased a 2016 Sonata Hybrid Limted in October, 2015. At the time of purchase, I was told it is available as a download, but that is not true. Only 2015 non-hybrid models can get it via download. I contacted Hyundai USA and was told nothing on when or if the Hybrid models will even get it. In fact, recent online brochures have been revised indicating Audroid Auto is not available on Hybrid models. I feel Hyundai has misled the customer on this feature. Have you heard anything about this?
If the Sonata Eco costs $3000 less than this hybrid, then buy the Eco and save 3 grand (or better yet buy the base Sonata and save 6 grand). That seems like a no-brainer to me: I'd rather save money immediately on the day of the purchase .
+electrictroy2010 in some countries like Jordan its 80% tax on gas only cars , 50% on hybrid cars and 0% on all electric so the hybrid will be cheaper to buy than a gas only car.
That federal tax credit of $4,919 isn't too shabby. Some states offer an electric car rebate on the Plug-In. Some utilities offer a rebate on the Plug-In. In California, that would be $6,919 back to you, besides the savings in gas every time you drove it.
Thanks, many of us appreciate the thorough nature of your reviews. Any thoughts on the 2016 Sonata plug-in vs the 2016 Fusion Energi Titanium? The Energi has the established and well-tested plug-in system, the larger electric motor, and all the features and benefits you mention in your prior review. If this is Hyundai's first stab at a plug-in system that might be a concern but it does appear to offer somewhat better all electric range and a larger trunk. That said, I should be able to do my 38 mile round-trip commute all electric in either vehicle because I can charge at work and either trunk should be sufficient for my needs. I'm really wondering then about your comparison of the two vehicles with the differences in electric range and trunk excluded/minimized. Based on your reviews it sounds like the Energi might have the edge in appearance, handling, acceleration and overall performance, and the 2016 Energi dash/console seems to be an improvement over the 2015, but having reviewed both cars which would you choose?
+Owen T I think I'd go for the Sonata. The car is fresher overall, the fuel economy is slightly better and Hyundai has a longer powertrain warranty including a lifetime battery warranty to help eliminate any fears.
Alex another great review ! Whats your thoughts on this vehicle hybrid / PHEV and accord hybrid compared to the upcoming Chevrolet 2016 Volt for best real world fuel economy and on side note the new 2016 Prius . Thanks Joe
+TechExplorer Most likely Prius 2016 will get about 8-10% improvement. But regardless even current gen is more efficient than Sonata Hybrid but then much smaller car (but cargo is better since it's hatchback). The Volt compared to Sonata PHEV is same story. Much more efficient with more than double the EV range but much smaller car. The Accord Hybrid production is shifting to Japan so seems they are skipping renewing it for this year unlike the regular 2016 Accord which gets lot of nice improvements. Probably pretty close in FE with an slight edge to Accord.
Alex, yet again another superb review. I'm curious on your thoughts regarding highway mileage with the Sonata hybrid in that according to my calculations, it's little engine is turning at about 2300 rpm at 70 mph. That's over 500 rpm higher than the Ford Fusion hybrid for instance. Can't help but think that will ultimately lead to poorer fuel economy overall.
+Jim MacMurdo It really just depends on how the whole drivetrain is designed. In general this does seem to deliver better mileage than the Fusion Hybrid.
An EV is electric only, a hybrid is gasoline only but uses motors and a small battery to increase efficiency. A Plug in hybrid is a hybrid with a bigger battery that you can charge from a wall plug. It allows limited EV range but is mainly a gasoline driven hybrid.
The Hyundai Sonata Plug-In is rated to be driven 27 miles on electrical battery alone. My wife works less than 10 miles from our home. There have been weeks were she never buys gas for it. But, sometimes she must drive over that 27 mile limit. The Plug-In simply drives like a hybrid after the battery is depleted.
I know Hyundai is not gonna be as better as Toyota or Honda, but at least they're getting better and better not like VW, BMW OR MERCEDES who are losing reputation and quality.
I like the high quality interior - it looks like a mix of VW, Audi and Volvo... BTW. The front end looks like Subaru - at first when I saw a thumbnail I thought you have tested new Legacy :D
Alex on Autos / ...Well, My 2014 Sonata Hybrid, Which I’ve enjoyed driving for 3 1/2 yrs...is in the Dealership right Now with 56,550 Miles on it & NEEDS A NEW COMPUTER !!! (Thankyou GOD),...for malfunctioning before the 60,000 manufacturers warranty period, so I Don’t have to Foot the BILL FOR THIS $ 4,500 REPAIR COST, plus Labor,....Yikes !!
Hello Hyundai Hybrid Car Experts, I am considering a reliable, efficient, luxurious, practical, budget friendly hybrid (and possible plugin) to replace by 2008 high mileage high maintenance 5 series BMW. I know hybrids don't compare to the 300 hp power BMW, but I am willing to get a more reliable high mpg car since I drive a lot with a ride sharing company. Here is my question to if I buy a certified or low mileage (20K or less) used Hyundai Sonata Hybrid or Plug in Limited Model from Hyundai Dealership or CarMax would the 100K battery and powertrain warranty or any car manufacturer warranty be voided for the second owner? Is there still any kind of rebate for hybrids as a second owner that lives in Nevada? Is there an financial advantage to buying new, as I am not too hot about biting the depreciation cost? Thanks and appreciate your input. Future Hybrid owner
Helpful review, but you didn’t mention the one feature that prompted us to buy this generation Sonata Limited over an Accord or other vehicle: memory seat & mirrors. Two of us share our Sonata but our height difference means we have very different seat & mirror positions. In our previous car we were both doing a lot of adjusting every time we wanted to drive somewhere. At the time the Sonata Limited was the only mainstream vehicle with this feature. The Kia Optima/K5 has it now too. It’s not available on any Honda, Toyota, etc.
Dont purchase this car i bought this car in 2016 after two month i got a problem in A/C and start Button i took that car to tracy dealer for they took 1 week to fix that problem. Horrible customer service in Hyundai dealership and now today i got a problem in bettery i took that to dealership and my invoice is $2000.00 . all fake review
wanted to like you, too much talking about other things? Review one car at a time IMHO. talking so fast can't even follow you, too much, overdoing it. can't even watch you
Hi Alex. Thank you for the great in-depth video. It is very thorough and detailed. I find all your videos very entertaining. Do you know why Hyundai does not allow to display the speed in km/h for US models?
Hello Hyundai Hybrid Car Experts, I am considering a reliable, efficient, luxurious, practical, budget friendly hybrid (and possible plugin) to replace by 2008 high mileage high maintenance 5 series BMW. I know hybrids don't compare to the 300 hp power BMW, but I am willing to get a more reliable high mpg car since I drive a lot with a ride sharing company. Here is my question to if I buy a certified or low mileage (20K or less) used Hyundai Sonata Hybrid or Plug in Limited Model from Hyundai Dealership or CarMax would the 100K battery and powertrain warranty or any car manufacturer warranty be voided for the second owner? Is there still any kind of rebate for hybrids as a second owner that lives in Nevada? Is there an financial advantage to buying new, as I am not too hot about biting the depreciation cost? Thanks and appreciate your input. Future Hybrid owner
1) The only warranty that carries used is the 5 year 60,000 mile limited warranty. The 10 year warranty is only good for original owner or if you buy the car certified at a Hyundai dealer. 2) Battery warranty is lifetime for original owner, 10 year/100k for subsequent owner and I believe the lifetime policy stopped in 2016 so you can't get an unlimited battery warranty on a new 2017 model. 3) I don't see anything besides the federal tax credits for new vehicle purchase (plug in models only). 4) That's entirely up to you
Hi Alex. Thank you for the great in-depth video. It is very thorough and detailed. I find all your videos very entertaining. Do you know why Hyundai does not allow to display the speed in km/h for US models?
![KSI - Dirty [Official Visualiser]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/VoDh1h1dPUE/mqdefault.jpg)
Alex On Autos car Reviews: 5 stars
Other car reviews (CNET, Everyman Driver, KBB, Fastlane Car, etc): 3-3.5 stars
Car sales person doing a review of the car he/she is selling: 1.5 star
"Complete" reviews by individuals who visit the dealership armed with a smartphone camera: 0.5 star
Thanks for your extensive knowledge on cars. It empowers everyone! Please keep it coming...
He will.
hyundai is my new favorite car maker, they have vastly improved every year
I already got this hybrid and I'm just watching these videos to see if I can learn more about the vehicle than what I already know
Same
Have you had any mechanical issues with it
I'm thinking about this or the Ford Fusion
@@vernonpaigejr.1517 Which did you get?
I ended up getting a 2016 2.0T CTS 4
Just hit 70k miles on my 2016 hybrid limited no problems
"Exclusive trunk comfort index". You sir, get 10/10 for creativity!
I want to say thank you for this review, I got a 2016 Plug-In Hybrid Limited with 36k miles on it after I totaled my 2017 Mazda3 GT I appreciate your honest approach and how you compare this car to other brands rather than just talking about the Hyundai.
Older video but very well done Alex. I enjoy you not shouting at me and really delivering a high level of information in a short amount of time. A lot of work went into this. I just bought a 2017 Sonata PHEV and while I should have watched this first, I now feel happy that I made a good choice.
Alex the comparison at the end was very interesting. And I never understood the difference in the the way the hybrids actually operated and how different they were from each other. Great job ALEX!!
I work full time in the gig industry. I have gotten the 2019 Hyundai Sonata model se up to 52.2 mpg. It avg is 47.5
As an Hyundai fan: This is my sedan Alex.
Simply the best review ..... i saw many reviews but the way you explain things is the best ... SUPERLIKE
Alex, I haven't been in the market for a few years so I haven't checked out many of your recent videos, which I've always appreciated. Now I have to say that the annotation as contents is one of the most impressive RUclips innovations I've ever seen. If you haven't patented it already, you really should consider it.
best info given to consumer. appreciate your complete breakdown of vehicles.
Another very helpful, very thorough review. Thank you, Alex.
Do you have to plug it in to recharge it if you have hybrid limited trim?
Thank you so much for this video. You have great diction, and I wasn't distracted by imperfect intonations, pauses, or weird tics even once.
The video is very well thought out. I watched it from the beginning to end without losing focus. Only relevant information, and only objective (from what I can tell) comparisons with the closest competitors.
This was really useful to me, thank you!
The only improvement is you could do a stand-alone plug-in hybrid review =)
You have the best reviews IMO. Great great great job!!!!
Can you review the Prius C?
I have this 2017 sonata limited hev. It does not have the steering wheel heating. Furthermore, the battery gauge never went above 1/2. Shouldn't it have a fully charged battery and steering wheel heat? The best mpg is basically around 32 city. Yet even lower since getting my own doughnut spare + jack.
Alex, I like your new haircut! It fits you :D
out of the 2016 Hyundai sonata hybrid and the 2016 toyota camry hybrid and the 2016 toyota avalon hybrid. which is the best value/car in your opinion?
I'm surprised that you would pick the Accord Hybrid over the Sonata based on the 10 mpg difference ( instead of the Honda's because of the Honda's better handling for instance ). The mpg difference per year based on 15k miles would be $75. I suppose to some that savings would be important but the perceived advantages of the Sonata in your review ( refined power delivery, ride, trunk space come to mind ) would be more important to me ( and this is from someone who appreciates efficiency too ). I didn't do that math but I wonder how the Sonata's break-even time ( vs the ECO let's say ) would compare to Honda's Hybrid vs the reg. Accord?
+Ronald Coniglio With current gas prices most hybrids wouldn't break even. But if you buy a car for efficiency (and not necessarily absolute cost) then you enjoy a car more if it has best mpg. Similar buying a Prius over a base Corolla. I think that is what is meant. Sure they are other factors but that's a personal preference.
Accord Hybrid is not refreshed so right now you don't even have the option to buy one unless you can still find a '15 model somewhere. They are skipping a model year I believe.
I got my 17 hybrid for 6k off. So it's already paying off
Excellent review, as always. Thank you, Alex! Hopefully, Honda will infuse some additional refinements into their 2016 Accord Hybrid model (I look forward to your review), so that it can continue to be the best mid-size hybrid across wider spectrum of dimensions (and I hope that they will keep the 2015's front end / grille design). However, I do like this car almost as well.
if this one gets 45 or above, I will get this one over Accord with CVT but 9 difference is too much. But I am considering Kia Niro, which is way cheaper than both Accord and Sonata but manages to get 50+.....
Great review Alex! I was shopping around in real world, the Accord hybrid cost around $28000 however, Sonata Hybrid Limited can be purchased around $22000 with all kinds of discounts. plus Hyundai offers Hybrid battery lifetime warranty. I think this Sonata is clear winner in the industry isn't it? Also Accord interior looks cheap everywhere compare to Sonata. If you can buy this Sonata Hybrid Limited model at $22000, would you still pick Accord over Sonata?
I am wondering the exact same question. Hyundai has so many discounts.
No way you can get a limited for 22k. You must mean se
I got my 2017 Limited for a shade over 24,000
Your the best, can you please review 2015 sonata limited with tech pack.
i bought a first year model of the 2006 generation sonata and kind of regretted the fact that they made a few improvements the year after that squelched my gripes. what gripes aside from the handling and fuel economy did you have with this vehicle? I'm looking at getting the plug in.
Hey Alex, do you plan to review the 2018 Sonata hybrid?
Thanks!!
Will this be updated anytime soon (2018)?
Hi Alex. Thank you for the great in-depth video. It is very thorough and detailed. I find all your videos very entertaining. Do you know why Hyundai does not allow to display the speed in km/h for US models?
Thanks for the nice and detailed review!
Great review ! you explained everything very nicely.
Really great detailed review thank you very much continue :)
At the beginning I thought you had said this gets a brand new 7 speed dual clutch, but then your info screen popped up with specs and it said 6 speed.
The Sonata Eco gets the 7spd dual clutch.
The biggest disappointment here is how Hyundai fitted a BIG battery in the PHEV version (9.8kWh is large vs. the 7.6kWh in the Ford) but saddled it with a scooter-sized electric motor.
This means the battery will last a long range but with only 67hp (50kw) on tap that 24 mile EV range is more bragging right exercise than useful in real world. Compare that to the Fusion Energi which has a 118hp (88kw) electric motor or Accord Plug-in 166hp (124kw) unit, you'll even be honked at by hypermiling Prius drivers before you can get up to speed.
*****
That's even worse that Hyundai don't even give you the option of EV lockout mode: Ford has this in the Fusion Energi where even when floored the gas engine will STAY OFF but a prompt will show on-screen which if you press OK on the steering wheel the engine will fire. This means you can actually do a full EV commute with a 20 mile radius, something that you will have to feather the throttle in the Sonata to achieve if what you say is true.
In my mind, a PHEV should be primarily a EV with hybrid capability once the charge runs out. The Chevy Volt does this best, but for regular Hybrids converted to PHEV will need AT LEAST 100hp minimum to be remotely useful. Remember most PHEVs weigh close to 4000lbs. While 67hp may be enough to propel an Accent at a decent rate, a midsizer with ~500lbs of batteries on-board simply isn't enough, especially if the Forced EV mode can be overridden if the throttle is depressed too hard.
Another great review, Alex! How was the fit and finish of the Sonata Hybrid? Other reviewers have commented negatively on it (especially the panoramic sunroof, saying it squeaks when the car flexes). Did you notice this?
+Tom Eisenmenger I actually thought the fit and finish was good. Many cars squeak when the car has a large torsional load on them but I didn't notice that in the Sonata either.
+Alex on Autos Good to hear! I'll have to consider the Sonata hybrid when it's time to buy-I love their solution for the trunk space problem. Hoping the next Accord Hybrid has a similar solution since that's my preferred ride.
As a hybrid owner I will not buy another one. My choice would be
something like the Cruze, because it costs only 17,000 and 5.3
cents/mile. If I bought a Prius or Sonata costing 8 grand more and 4
c/mile, then it would take OVER 600,000 MILES FOR GAS SAVINGS TO COVER
THE HYBRID PRICETAG. Even if gasoline doubled in current prices, it
would still take 300,000 miles to reach the break-even point
.
The Chevy Cruze (or similar lowcost car) simply makes more sense from a financial standpoint
.
electrictroy2010 It's not all about cost effectiveness - there are other issues at play (environmental concerns and performance - yes, performance - for example). Also, suggesting a Cruse to folks who obviously want a car that can comfortably seat 5 adults doesn't make much sense - apples and oranges.
Great review Alex!
Another great choice of car for this week, Alex. I read somewhere that Hyundai gives lifetime battery warranty on their hybrid and plug in Sonata - can you please confirm? and if that's true, this would be the best in the segment.
great review, I just bought 2016 plug in and I love it. I have a question on how to smart drive this car, what I am doing is switching to EV MODE only when I am in city or traffic. and hybrid when I drive on freeway, and I switch on ev mod as much as I can to save gas, this game gives me an about 88mpg combined! ! I think by thing it i save more comparing to driving in hybrid mode, and suggestions?
That sounds like the best way to drive it, maximize the EV capability at low speeds and switch the hybrid when you're at sustained higher speeds. How is the car? Does yours have the panoramic sunroof? I've heard that feature gets noisy over bumps in the road.
Has it been reliable? Mine has a bad habit of not charging overnight. I am guessing this has happened two times a month since ownership. And then two times completely failed to charge--forcing me to bring it to the dealer. So far, it has spent 50 days in the shop fixing this issue.
Alex, thank you for your review. I think Honda is not offering a 2016 Accord Hybrid. Also the MPG of these hybrids are greatly lowered in cold climates. Although this could be due to running the cabin heater nonstop.
+bird271828 That's what I found with our '14 Accord Hybrid. During mild weather when no cabin heat (and to a lesser degree, cooling) is needed it's relatively easy to see 50mpg average just driving around easily on the flats. But in cold weather the engine obviously must run more and longer to produce that heat. During such times driving around town and up hills and down average mileage can get below 40mpg. Still nothing to be ashamed of but in comparison it's a big change. Finally, the Accord is also pretty darned nice to drive and fun!
enjoyable, clear and very informative. thank you.
As a hybrid owner I will not buy another one. My choice would be
something like the Cruze, because it costs only 17,000 and 5.3
cents/mile. If I bought a Prius or Sonata costing 8 grand more and 4
c/mile, then it would take OVER 600,000 MILES FOR GAS SAVINGS TO COVER
THE HYBRID PRICETAG. Even if gasoline doubled in current prices, it
would still take 300,000 miles to reach the break-even point
.
The Chevy Cruze simply makes more sense from a financial standpoint
.
Alex, As you tested so many hybrids, do you have any intention to make a cross comprasion, among hybrids of accord, fusion, camry, sonata, and even jetta.especially compare their economy and performance.
+Chiming Yin That sounds like a good idea, I'll see what I can do.
+Alex on Autos recently, Chvy introduced their Malibu hybrid, claimed a 48-city, 45-hwy fuel numbers, do you have plan to review it and put it in your cross comparison?
+Chiming Yin I hope so
Or get a used 2007-11 camry hybrid for around 5 to 10 grand, huge savings and still great fuel economy
Great review, Alex. I do want to point out something. At this moment, the Limited versions of the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid do not come with Android Auto, only non-hybrid models get it. I purchased a 2016 Sonata Hybrid Limted in October, 2015. At the time of purchase, I was told it is available as a download, but that is not true. Only 2015 non-hybrid models can get it via download. I contacted Hyundai USA and was told nothing on when or if the Hybrid models will even get it. In fact, recent online brochures have been revised indicating Audroid Auto is not available on Hybrid models. I feel Hyundai has misled the customer on this feature. Have you heard anything about this?
+gnatman1102 HYUNDAI lied
.
I bought a '16 Sonata Plug-in Hybrid that also did not come with Apple Car Play. Since purchase, Apple Car Play was made available by Hyundai.
If the Sonata Eco costs $3000 less than this hybrid, then buy the Eco and save 3 grand (or better yet buy the base Sonata and save 6 grand). That seems like a no-brainer to me: I'd rather save money immediately on the day of the purchase
.
+electrictroy2010 in some countries like Jordan its 80% tax on gas only cars , 50% on hybrid cars and 0% on all electric so the hybrid will be cheaper to buy than a gas only car.
***** not all countries allow diesel passenger cars
And you probably wanna consider the resale value as well.
That federal tax credit of $4,919 isn't too shabby. Some states offer an electric car rebate on the Plug-In. Some utilities offer a rebate on the Plug-In. In California, that would be $6,919 back to you, besides the savings in gas every time you drove it.
Nice video Alex
I still miss this old outro music.
Thanks, many of us appreciate the thorough nature of your reviews.
Any thoughts on the 2016 Sonata plug-in vs the 2016 Fusion Energi Titanium? The Energi has the established and well-tested plug-in system, the larger electric motor, and all the features and benefits you mention in your prior review. If this is Hyundai's first stab at a plug-in system that might be a concern but it does appear to offer somewhat better all electric range and a larger trunk. That said, I should be able to do my 38 mile round-trip commute all electric in either vehicle because I can charge at work and either trunk should be sufficient for my needs. I'm really wondering then about your comparison of the two vehicles with the differences in electric range and trunk excluded/minimized. Based on your reviews it sounds like the Energi might have the edge in appearance, handling, acceleration and overall performance, and the 2016 Energi dash/console seems to be an improvement over the 2015, but having reviewed both cars which would you choose?
+Owen T I think I'd go for the Sonata. The car is fresher overall, the fuel economy is slightly better and Hyundai has a longer powertrain warranty including a lifetime battery warranty to help eliminate any fears.
Alex another great review ! Whats your thoughts on this vehicle hybrid / PHEV and accord hybrid compared to the upcoming Chevrolet 2016 Volt for best real world fuel economy and on side note the new 2016 Prius .
Thanks
Joe
+TechExplorer Most likely Prius 2016 will get about 8-10% improvement. But regardless even current gen is more efficient than Sonata Hybrid but then much smaller car (but cargo is better since it's hatchback).
The Volt compared to Sonata PHEV is same story. Much more efficient with more than double the EV range but much smaller car.
The Accord Hybrid production is shifting to Japan so seems they are skipping renewing it for this year unlike the regular 2016 Accord which gets lot of nice improvements. Probably pretty close in FE with an slight edge to Accord.
Alex, yet again another superb review. I'm curious on your thoughts regarding highway mileage with the Sonata hybrid in that according to my calculations, it's little engine is turning at about 2300 rpm at 70 mph. That's over 500 rpm higher than the Ford Fusion hybrid for instance. Can't help but think that will ultimately lead to poorer fuel economy overall.
+Jim MacMurdo It really just depends on how the whole drivetrain is designed. In general this does seem to deliver better mileage than the Fusion Hybrid.
Jaguar Xe 2015 vs Mercedes C-class 2015 ?
What's the difference between a plug in and a hybrid
An EV is electric only, a hybrid is gasoline only but uses motors and a small battery to increase efficiency. A Plug in hybrid is a hybrid with a bigger battery that you can charge from a wall plug. It allows limited EV range but is mainly a gasoline driven hybrid.
The Hyundai Sonata Plug-In is rated to be driven 27 miles on electrical battery alone. My wife works less than 10 miles from our home. There have been weeks were she never buys gas for it. But, sometimes she must drive over that 27 mile limit. The Plug-In simply drives like a hybrid after the battery is depleted.
I know Hyundai is not gonna be as better as Toyota or Honda, but at least they're getting better and better not like VW, BMW OR MERCEDES who are losing reputation and quality.
I like the high quality interior - it looks like a mix of VW, Audi and Volvo...
BTW. The front end looks like Subaru - at first when I saw a thumbnail I thought you have tested new Legacy :D
+uk574 I felt opposite when I drove the regular Sonata. Lots of hard plastics and pretty austere. I liked previous gen much better.
The Sonata has had this look before the legacy though.
Well explained, good video !
Alex on Autos / ...Well, My 2014 Sonata Hybrid, Which I’ve enjoyed driving for 3 1/2 yrs...is in the Dealership right Now with 56,550 Miles on it & NEEDS A NEW COMPUTER !!! (Thankyou GOD),...for malfunctioning before the 60,000 manufacturers warranty period, so I Don’t have to Foot the BILL FOR THIS $ 4,500 REPAIR COST, plus Labor,....Yikes !!
Lucky you!!
I wonder what the range will be for full charge, full gas.
+mogelijk1 yea, I did the math...but I wanna know the actual user rated performance.
+mogelijk1 oh awesome! Thx...I'll check out the vid also.
Hello Hyundai Hybrid Car Experts,
I am considering a reliable, efficient, luxurious, practical, budget friendly hybrid (and possible plugin) to replace by 2008 high mileage high maintenance 5 series BMW. I know hybrids don't compare to the 300 hp power BMW, but I am willing to get a more reliable high mpg car since I drive a lot with a ride sharing company.
Here is my question to if I buy a certified or low mileage (20K or less) used Hyundai Sonata Hybrid or Plug in Limited Model from Hyundai Dealership or CarMax would the 100K battery and powertrain warranty or any car manufacturer warranty be voided for the second owner? Is there still any kind of rebate for hybrids as a second owner that lives in Nevada? Is there an financial advantage to buying new, as I am not too hot about biting the depreciation cost?
Thanks and appreciate your input.
Future Hybrid owner
I don’t think you are still looking but.... all of Hyundai’s pre-owns come with the 100k powertrain.
I'm not so sure you're using the saying "floored it" in the correct manner.
Helpful review, but you didn’t mention the one feature that prompted us to buy this generation Sonata Limited over an Accord or other vehicle: memory seat & mirrors.
Two of us share our Sonata but our height difference means we have very different seat & mirror positions. In our previous car we were both doing a lot of adjusting every time we wanted to drive somewhere. At the time the Sonata Limited was the only mainstream vehicle with this feature. The Kia Optima/K5 has it now too.
It’s not available on any Honda, Toyota, etc.
Hyundai should put this power train in the Ioniq.
Thanks
Just goes to show that one needs to do their homework and drive all that interests you.
You really shouldn’t list the plug in hybrid in your title if you don’t actually have one of those in your video
Hyundai Sonata reviewed in la Honda, California. Jokes
looks like a lexus ls, audi a4, subaru wrx mixed into one. no thanks Hyundai
Dont purchase this car i bought this car in 2016 after two month i got a problem in A/C and start Button i took that car to tracy dealer for they took 1 week to fix that problem. Horrible customer service in Hyundai dealership and now today i got a problem in bettery i took that to dealership and my invoice is $2000.00 . all fake review
First
wanted to like you, too much talking about other things? Review one car at a time IMHO. talking so fast can't even follow you, too much, overdoing it. can't even watch you
Hi Alex. Thank you for the great in-depth video. It is very thorough and detailed. I find all your videos very entertaining. Do you know why Hyundai does not allow to display the speed in km/h for US models?
Hello Hyundai Hybrid Car Experts,
I am considering a reliable, efficient, luxurious, practical, budget friendly hybrid (and possible plugin) to replace by 2008 high mileage high maintenance 5 series BMW. I know hybrids don't compare to the 300 hp power BMW, but I am willing to get a more reliable high mpg car since I drive a lot with a ride sharing company.
Here is my question to if I buy a certified or low mileage (20K or less) used Hyundai Sonata Hybrid or Plug in Limited Model from Hyundai Dealership or CarMax would the 100K battery and powertrain warranty or any car manufacturer warranty be voided for the second owner? Is there still any kind of rebate for hybrids as a second owner that lives in Nevada? Is there an financial advantage to buying new, as I am not too hot about biting the depreciation cost?
Thanks and appreciate your input.
Future Hybrid owner
1) The only warranty that carries used is the 5 year 60,000 mile limited warranty. The 10 year warranty is only good for original owner or if you buy the car certified at a Hyundai dealer.
2) Battery warranty is lifetime for original owner, 10 year/100k for subsequent owner and I believe the lifetime policy stopped in 2016 so you can't get an unlimited battery warranty on a new 2017 model.
3) I don't see anything besides the federal tax credits for new vehicle purchase (plug in models only).
4) That's entirely up to you
Wife just bought a 2017 Sonata Hybrid, and yep! The lifetime battery warranty is still in place.
Hi Alex. Thank you for the great in-depth video. It is very thorough and detailed. I find all your videos very entertaining. Do you know why Hyundai does not allow to display the speed in km/h for US models?