2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Reviews, Pictures and Prices

in Affordable Midsize Cars

Avg. Paid:$25,119 - $29,772

MSRP: $25,650 - $30,550

Invoice: $24,248 - $28,674

MPG: 36 City / 40 Hwy

Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid U.S. News Best Cars 8.5
Critics' Rating:	8.6
Performance:	7.6
Interior:	8.3
Safety:	9.6
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

The 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid ranks 6 out of 20 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 18 published reviews and test drives of the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is ranked:

^#6 in Affordable Midsize Cars
^#6 in Hybrid Cars

A long warranty, high-quality interior and lots of standard features make the 2013 Sonata Hybrid a good value for a hybrid, but some reviewers think its powertrain isn’t as refined as rival hybrids’.

The 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid has a four-cylinder engine, electric motor and six-speed automatic transmission. Most test drivers think the Sonata Hybrid delivers good power and a comfortable ride, but some say its overall drivetrain isn’t as well-executed as other midsize hybrids’. One notes that the fuel-saving Blue mode makes the engine loud and the car lethargic. The Sonata Hybrid can get 36/40 mpg city/highway, which is good for the class, but not as efficient as other hybrids, like the Ford Fusion Hybrid.

The automotive press agrees that the 2013 Sonata Hybrid has an upscale, spacious interior that is built well. They like that it comes with so many standard features, which some think makes it a good value among hybrids. Standard features include Bluetooth, satellite radio, dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start and auxiliary and USB jacks. Buyers can add features like navigation, a rearview camera, a panoramic sunroof, HD Radio and an Infinity audio system. Most reviewers think the features are easy to use, though a few dislike the fuel efficiency display in the gauge cluster, saying it is distracting. Though the trunk has sufficient space and a back-seat pass-through, critics wish the back seats folded down to increase cargo room.

"… the 2013 Sonata Hybrid represents the pinnacle of Hyundai fuel efficiency with its 40-mpg highway rating and lifetime-warrantied hybrid battery." -- Kelley Blue Book
"While its suspension composure lags rivals, it is offset by the entire lineup's unique blend of style, interior comfort, standard and available features, and value pricing. That's what makes Sonata an exceptional midsize sedan." -- Consumer Guide
"Family sedan shoppers looking for a roomy, well-equipped hybrid with some distinctive styling should put the Sonata Hybrid on their short list." -- Edmunds (2011)
"The Sonata Hybrid is a well thought-out, well executed, and progressive hybrid." -- Motor Trend (2011)

Other Cars to Consider

The Ford Fusion Hybrid was completely overhauled for 2013 and it gets significantly better fuel economy than the Sonata Hybrid. Test drivers say the Fusion Hybrid’s quiet powertrain and abundant power are impressive for a hybrid car. They also like its spacious interior and versatile trunk.

The Toyota Camry Hybrid gets much better fuel economy in the city than the Sonata Hybrid, but on the highway, it earns slightly less. Reviewers think the Camry Hybrid’s best feature is that the transition from the gas engine to the electric motor is seamless and barely undetectable. They also like the Camry Hybrid’s roomy, upscale interior.

Compare the Sonata Hybrid, Fusion Hybrid and Camry Hybrid »

Details: 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is available in one trim. It has a four-cylinder engine, electric motor and six-speed automatic transmission. The Sonata Hybrid debuted in 2011, and since it sees only minor changes for 2013, this overview uses applicable research and reviews from 2011 and 2012, as well as the current model year.

See the full 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid specs »

Review Last Updated: 5/15/13