Everyone’s favorite South Korean automaker is set to make some big news in the Big Apple this April. That’s when the New York International Auto Show kicks off, and among the vehicles set to debut there will be hybrid and turbocharged models of the 2011 Hyundai Sonata.
Now, just to be clear, this will be two separate models. The new top-of-the-line Sonata will holster the 2-liter turbo four currently used to motivate the entry-level Genesis Coupe, in which it makes 210 hp and 223 lb-ft of torque. Customers can expect more power from the powerplant when it’s used in the Sonata, however, with commentators expecting to see upwards of 250 hp from the engine when it’s fitted to Hyundai’s sedan. That’s a nice step up from the current Sonata’s 198 hp/184 lb-ft of torque, although it’s slightly lower than the numbers found in the Ford Fusion Sport, which is good for 263 hp and 249 lb-ft of torque.
On the other hand, the Ford holsters a V6, which returns an EPA line of 18/27 in city/highway driving. EPA estimates have yet to be announced for the turbo Sonata, but it’s smaller engine should help the car make up for its slightly lower power numbers with slightly better fuel efficiency. At least until the Blue Oval drops an EcoBoost powerplant in the Fusion.
As for the new Hyundai hybrid, well, Ford had better watch out in this segment, too. The Fusion has been the class of the mid-size hybrids since its introduction, based on its high-quality Fusion underpinnings and fuel efficiency numbers that were significantly higher than the sedan-style hybrid competition. The Fusion goes 41 city/36 highway, while the Toyota Camry hybrid achieves 33/34 in the EPA’s city/highway ratings.
Considering all these mileage figures, Bremerton car dealers admit that the Sonata Hybrid might be just what many consumers were looking for; a car that balances style, efficiency, and the affordability of a Hyundai.
With Hyundai making it a goal to produce the most fuel-efficient vehicles in the U.S., you can expect the hybrid Sonata to at least match the Fusion’s mpg numbers, which should also help it match Fusion sales.
Today’s Hyundais, like the new Sonata, are a far cry from the Hyundai’s of the past seen among Pohanka Used Cars. But even so, Hyundais haven’t changed in every area: both new and old, they’re still competitively priced and very fuel-efficient.
Drivers can expect both new Sonatas to reach dealerships before the year is out.
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