2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: Second Take Success

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

At lower speeds it's electric all the way.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

The six-speed transmission is no longer a burden.

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

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

A bigger trunk debuts for 2016.

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