2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: Second Take Success

Photo: Benjamin Hunting

The template for the car stays the same, but the execution has risen to the requisite level for Hyundai to compete in the admittedly-small hybrid family sedan segment.

Photo: Benjamin Hunting

You don't have to go all-in with the Sonata Hybrid Ultimate to walk away with a well-appointed, and very efficient automobile.

Photo: Benjamin Hunting

If the software's not quite up to par then you end up with the debacle that was the original Sonata Hybrid's driving experience.

Photo: Benjamin Hunting

As good as the previous-generation gas-only Hyundai Sonata was, the Hybrid model simply couldn't match it.

Photo: Benjamin Hunting

One of the more impressive aspects of the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is how aggressive the car is about engaging its electric motor.

Photo: Benjamin Hunting

It's certain the most drivers won't notice the drop-off, because Hyundai has taken important steps to eliminate the rough character of its hybrid setup.

Photo: Benjamin Hunting

At lower speeds it's electric all the way.

Photo: Benjamin Hunting

Hyundai has done a fairly commendable job at mixing its Hybrid option into the general Sonata landscape.

Photo: Benjamin Hunting

The Hyundai was a pleasant highway companion during a jaunt down to the ski resort area of Stowe, Vermont.

Photo: Benjamin Hunting

Hyundai has done an excellent job of providing customers with cabins that feel just a little higher class than their automobile's purchase price would suggest.

Photo: Benjamin Hunting

The 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid's gas engine sees a major upgrade with the new sedan.

Photo: Benjamin Hunting

Features include heated seats front and rear, leather upholstery, and an excellent LCD touchscreen infotainment system.

Photo: Benjamin Hunting

The most affordable version of the battery-assisted sedan starts at just under $30,000, with the Ultimate trim level cresting $37,000.

Photo: Gabriel Gélinas

An extra effort in sound deadening has paid dividends for the Sonata Hybrid, too.

Photo: Gabriel Gélinas

The six-speed transmission is no longer a burden.

Photo: Gabriel Gélinas

The Sonata Hybrid's overall output rating drops six ponies to 199 total system horsepower.

Photo: Gabriel Gélinas

Power delivery from the engine and battery-powered motor is smooth, if not all that lively.

Photo: Gabriel Gélinas

A bigger trunk debuts for 2016.

Photo: Gabriel Gélinas

There were only a few instances where harder, delayed shifts had me questioning the Sonata's programming.