Reviewed by Susan Frissell

The Sonata’s current design, introduced in 2011, has won over hearts of consumers everywhere. Along with the automakers impressive list of standard features and reasonable pricing, the Sonata is quick becoming the vehicle of choice in the mid-size sedan category.

We tested a 2013 Hybrid version, a third powertrain option in the Sonata, with a standard 2.4-liter four with electric motors and a lithium-polymer battery pack. The Sonata Hybrid has a high threshold that enables it to run on battery power alone at highway speeds. According to Hyundai, this version will hit 60 mph in 9.2 seconds, well within the acceptable range for a family sedan, while delivering gas mileage of 36/40 mpg.

Just a few changes exist on the 2013 Sonata. In addition to the Sonata’s already impressive list of standard options, compared to its competitors, are Bluetooth, a USB port, power accessories, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and cruise control all remain included at the base level, for $21,670. Heated seats have been added this year as a standard feature to the sportier SE model, while SE and Limited editions add parking sensors and pushbutton start. The Sonata Limited also gets standard heated front and rear seats; a sunroof; a backup camera; automatic climate control; and an automatic dimming rearview mirror. And a BlueLink suite of operator-assisted concierge and data services, at different pricing tiers, remains available.

2013_hyundai_sonata-hybrid_sedan_base_fq_oem_1_500There are two trim levels available in the Sonata Hybrid: Base ($25,650) and Limited ($30,550)-new for 2013, both with the same engine. Our test vehicle was a Limited version, wanting for very little. The 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid receives an upgraded electric motor and a lighter, more compact battery, resulting in improved EPA fuel economy ratings and more trunk space. The Limited trim level includes much of the base model’s optional equipment as standard, including 17-inch wheels and a navigation system.

All hybrid sedans lose some trunk space due to intrusion from the hybrid system’s battery pack, and the Sonata Hybrid is no exception, with 12.1 cubic feet of capacity compared to 16.4 cubic feet in the regular Sonata. Among hybrid midsize sedans, the Sonata Hybrid offers comparable trunk space to its competitors Fusion Hybrid and 1 cubic foot less than the Camry Hybrid. One wouldn’t be disappointed in trunk size in the Sonata Hybrid, however. We found it to be very accommodating while moving boxes around.

Hyundai has also made changes to the computer-controlled clutch between the Sonata Hybrid’s 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and its electric motor. This change results in a more smooth transition between the gas and electric power sources in traffic. The lighter, more compact lithium-polymer battery pack allows for extra trunk space, as the Sonata Hybrid goes from just 10.7 cubic feet last year to a respectable 12.1-cubic-foot trunk in 2013.

The Hyundai Sonata remains one of our favorite mid-size sedans, and the Hybrid is no exception. A quiet smooth-riding vehicle, it’s hard to find much fault with. The Hybrid version offers good economy, generous interior room, along with the latest technology. We especially liked the music played when turning on/off the vehicle, as well as the diagram on the IP of the battery doing its thing.

As with all vehicles, there exist a few ‘cons;’ the Sonata Hybrid is no exception. The steering doesn’t provide much feel and jerks awkwardly at times. Seats could be a little more plush, but with the other abounding value this sedan offers, that’s a minor complaint.

SPECS

MSRP: $30,550; total vehicle price $32,450; destination $795

Engine: 2.4-liter, MPI DOHC  Atkinson Cycle 4-cyl. Hybrid, 16 valve w/D-CVVT, 159 hp., torque 154 lb. ft

Wheelbase: 110.0 in.

Length: 189.8 in.

Width: 72.2 in.

Weight: 3,257-3,578

Height: 57.7 in.

Warranty: 5 yr/60,000-mile New Vehicle; 10 yr/100,000-mile powertrain; 10 yr/100,000-mile Hybrid System Corporate Lifetime Hybrid Battery Replacement Guaranty; 7 yr/unlimited mile Anti-perforation; 5 yr/unlimited  Roadside Assistance.