New 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Priced Competitively at $26,545
Last week Hyundai officially placed the initial asking price for a 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid at $26,545. This price is competitive when compared to other mid-size hybrid sedans.
As a comparison, the 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid comes with a base price of $26,575 and the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid starts at $28,240.
2011 Hyundai Sonata
Hybrid Standard Features
For the price, entry-level Sonata Hybrids are fairly well equipped. Standard features include six-speed automatic transmission, automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, keyless ignition, 4.2-inch trip computer, power driver's seat, cruise control, steering-wheel mounted controls and inputs for iPod, USB and auxiliary devices.
Compare this starting package to the similarly priced Camry Hybrid, and the Sonata's value seems more impressive. Standard features found on the Sonata that are absent on the Camry include trip computer, steering-wheel controls, iPod input, foglights and LED taillights.
Those who want a little more luxury can add a Premium package to the Sonata Hybrid that includes panoramic roof, larger wheels, leather seats, improved stereo, unique interior trim, GPS navigation and a backup camera. Models equipped with the Premium package come with an asking price of $30,750.
2011 Hyundai Sonata
Hybrid Performance
The Hyundai Sonata's class-leading 40-mpg on the highway may add additional value for green car shoppers. For those who spend a good portion of their driving on the interstate, the Sonata promises to save drivers more at the gas pump than the competition.
Both the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Toyota Camry Hybrid promise 35 mpg on the highway. However, it should be noted that the Fusion Hybrid outperforms the Sonata Hybrid in city driving (41 mpg vs. 35 mpg).
Overall, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid delivers a combined fuel efficiency of 37 mpg. In comparison, the Camry Hybrid offers 33 mpg combined and the Fusion Hybrid delivers 39 mpg combined.
In terms of power, the Sonata Hybrid comes equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that mates to a 30 kW electric motor. Combined, the setup delivers 209 horsepower and 151 lb-ft. of torque. In early road tests, reviewers find the Hyundai Sonata to be a solid performer with quick acceleration and decent handling.
2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Interior
One potential downside of the economically priced Sonata Hybrid is interior cabin space. Simply put, there is less room to spread out in the Sonata Hybrid than in its closest competitors. As a comparison, the Sonata Hybrid offers 93.7 cubic feet of passenger space and the Fusion Hybrid serves up 99.8 cubic feet.
Similarly, the Sonata Hybrid allows for only 10.7 cubic feet of trunk space, while the Fusion Hybrid offers 11.8 cubic feet. Due to this fact, some shoppers may want to skip over the slightly lower price tag in favor of a model that offers additional real estate.
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