2019 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Reviews, Pricing & Specs

The spacious Hyundai Sonata Hybrid received a refresh in 2018 that coincided with one for the rest of the Sonata line. Thus, 2019 is a...

The spacious Hyundai Sonata Hybrid received a refresh in 2018 that coincided with one for the rest of the Sonata line. Thus, 2019 is a carryover year with only light changes.

Last year’s restyle left the Sonata Hybrid virtually indistinguishable from the conventional Sonata. The only telltale signs that set the Hybrid apart are ultra-efficient alloy wheel designs, clear taillight lenses, the lack of an exposed exhaust tip, and a few hybrid badges. Inside, changes consist of a power-state indicator in place of an RPM gauge and some unique and subtle interior patterns. Thanks to the battery, you also give up 3 cubic feet of trunk cargo space to the non-hybrid Sonata, for 13.4 total.

The Sonata Hybrid carries a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine and 38-kilowatt electric motor, producing 193 net horsepower. While most hybrids use a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), the Sonata Hybrid employs a conventional 6-speed automatic transmission and also has front-wheel drive (FWD). For its fuel-saving efforts, the Sonata Hybrid posts figures of 39 mpg city, 44 highway, and 41 combined. Those numbers are lower than the ones for hybrids like the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid, Honda Accord Hybrid, and Toyota Camry Hybrid, but comparable to the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Kia Optima Hybrid.

Just like last year, you can get the Sonata Hybrid in either SE or Limited trims. The base SE trim comes equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, projector-beam halogen headlights, LED taillights, LED daytime running lights, heated mirrors, solar control glass, a hands-free trunk, cloth upholstery, a 7-inch color touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and keyless access and start. The Limited grade gets 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, an 8-way driver’s seat, a 6-way power passenger’s seat, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, and an electronic parking brake. The Ultimate Package for the Limited trim adds a heated steering wheel, rear-window sunshades, Infinity premium audio, an 8-inch color touchscreen, navigation, and wireless phone charging.

Every Sonata Hybrid comes with a reversing camera and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and lane-change assist. Content previously available on the Ultimate Package now comes standard for the Limited trim, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with start/stop capability. Other optional safety equipment includes rear parking sensors and automatic high-beam assist. The Sonata Hybrid hasn't been crash tested. However, the conventional 2019 Sonata earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ award.

While newer wares from other manufacturers do a bit better in terms of features and fuel economy, the Sonata Hybrid is worth a look.