Korean automaker Hyundai, even as it becomes the first to begin assembly-line production of zero-emissions, hydrogen-powered vehicles, continues to focus on other types of green vehicle technology.
One such vehicle in its stable is the Sonata Hybrid, which first came to light in 2011 and is now in its 2013 iteration.
Hyundai said those seeking to buy the 2013 Sonata Hybrid will find the vehicle achieves better fuel economy and has a slightly lower price than previous model years.
Two different trim levels are offered – the base level pricing around $25,650 starting and a limited edition set at around $30,550 – and fuel efficiency, according to EPA estimates, is 36 MPG city/40 MPG highway/38 MPG combined. The newer fuel economy numbers represent up to a six percent improvement.
The 2013 Hyundai hybrid’s system combines a 2.4L Atkinson 4-cycle engine, a 10.5 kW Hybrid Starter Generator, 35 kW electric motor and a 47 kW Lithium Polymer battery pack. All total one gets 206 horsepower out of the car, and among the options available for greener driving, one can drive electrically up to 75 miles per hour when in pure electric mode as well as make use of regenerative braking to help recharge the Sonata’s battery.
The more basic trim level’s features include 6-speed automatic transmission; ABS; front, front seat side and curtain airbags; remote keyless entry, alarm and immobilizer; 4.2-inch color TFT multi-function trip computer with hybrid technology display; heated front seats; integrated Bluetooth with phonebook transfer and heated front seats.
The limited edition offering, besides the options available in the basic trim level, includes heated rear seats; a navigation system; rear backup camera; Infinity premium audio system; HD Radio technology and SiriusXM satellite data information such as traffic and weather.
