2023 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The eighth-generation Hyundai Sonata Hybrid maintains its presence in the midsize hybrid sedan segment in the USA where it battles the likes of the Honda Accord Hybrid and Toyota Camry Hybrid. Like most of its competitors, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid offers little when it comes to excitement, but is a suitable option if you're looking for an eco-friendly midsize sedan with a plush ride. The gas-electric Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is available in Blue, SEL, and Limited trims which puts its specification on par with the traditional ICE model minus the N Line and SEL Plus trims. It is a relatively young product having been launched just three years ago and sits on the brand's widely-used N3 platform. The brand-new 11th-generation Accord is now here with a heavy emphasis on hybrid models and a cutting-edge new hybrid system with dual electric motors, so is the Sonata Hybrid still be in with a shout for a podium finish in this class, considering its stellar fuel economy?

The 2023 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid sedan has a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 150 horsepower and 139-lb-ft of torque, driving the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. This is mated to a 51-hp/151-lb-ft electric motor and the combined output of 192 hp is no more than adequate and just enough to get you around without gritting your teeth. Our review of the 2023 Sonata found that it provides a rather dull driving experience, but in all fairness, this family car is not aimed at driving enthusiasts. It prioritizes comfort with a softly sprung suspension setup, but the steering's sharp and direct feel and the touchy brakes are at odds with the soft suspension. It's composed around corners despite the comfort bias, it's just not a fun car in this respect, and the jerky responses even in Eco mode, along with the sharp steering and brakes, mean the Sonata doesn't settle down properly. The 2.0-liter HEV drivetrain does not always transition smoothly between its two power sources either and doesn't have the slickest automatic transmission.

There is a lot that the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid does right, but it's not a segment leader. Standard features on all three trim lines are comprehensive, particularly when it comes to safety features. Interior and trunk space make it a suitable choice for small families that go on long-distance road trips. Given that it is a hybrid, the design is a lot more striking, which allows it to break away from the stigma of HEVs being boring cars. However, the driving experience does not cash the checks the styling writes. The previous-generation Honda Accord Hybrid is more fun to drive without faltering on comfort and interior space - and the brand-new 11th-gen Accord should be even better. The Sonata Hybrid needs to sharpen its blade just a bit more before it can take a seat on the podium, but this seems unlikely since it's winding down its career and may not even be replaced, as automakers vacate the midsize-sedan market in favor of crossovers. The best hybrid sedan in this corner of the market remains the Accord.