NAIAS 2015: Hyundai Unveils 2016 Sonata Hybrid, PHEV

Aside from its Santa Cruz trucklet concept, Hyundai also unveiled both the Sonata Hybrid and the Sonata Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle.

Power for the standard hybrid is provided by a downsized 2-liter Nu GDI four mated to a six-speed automatic with integrated 38 kW electric motor and clutch. The combination produces a net figure of 193 horsepower from the four’s 154 horses and the motor’s 51. Torque is 140 lb-ft for the four-cylinder, 151 lb-ft for the electric motor. Electric power is drawn from a 1.62 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack mounted under the trunk floor.

Meanwhile, the Sonata PHEV uses the same Nu GDI as the hybrid model, but has a 50 kW electric motor and a 9.9 kWh lithium polymer pack instead. Net output is 202 horsepower.

Fuel economy is expected to range from a combined 42 mpg for the hybrid, to 40 mpg with the PHEV, 93 MPGe in EV mode. Recharging for the latter takes between 2.5 to five hours depending on voltage used. Electric-only range is 22 miles before the gasoline engine takes over.

Both Sonatas have improved aero for both reduced drag and to distinguish themselves from the standard Sonata. Both also come in two colors — Graphite Blue Pearl and Seaport Mist — and offer two tones for cloth and leather, as well as a Blue Pearl leather option that includes matching stitching and trim.

Features shared by both vehicles include: driver’s knee airbag; electronic stability; forward collision warning; Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration; and rearview camera. The PHEV adds a smartphone app for monitoring charging, as well as remote start and other real-time data.

The Sonata Hybrid is set to go on sale this summer, with the PHEV to follow in a handful of states later this year. Both models will arrive via container from Hyundai’s plant in Asan, South Korea.