2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

With the environment now being such a big topic, many people are trying to live a greener lifestyle. If you’re in the market for a new hybrid family car, check out the completely redesigned 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Not only does the new model promise to offer additional fuel savings, but it also packs a greater number of cool technologies. A beautiful exterior design makes the new Sonata Hybrid more rewarding. However, are there are potential deal breakers to consider?

What’s New for 2020?

This year, Hyundai introduces a completely new Sonata Hybrid. It brings new features, a more striking exterior design, and a tad more driving fun.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid – The Pros

1. New Transmission Brings Improved Performance

Hybrid cars usually focus more on saving gas. Performance usually takes a backseat to fuel efficiency. Fortunately, the 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid doesn’t force you to make a choice. Its new six-speed automatic transmission features Active Shift Control technology. This feature ensures lightning-quick gear shifts. When you step on the gas, power is always there. Most of the Sonata Hybrid’s competition uses a continuous variable transmission, which often sacrifices a bit of driving fun.

2. Relatively Quick and Good on Gas

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid comes equipped with a strong powertrain. You’ll have ample passing power. Its four-cylinder engine pairs with an electric motor to crank out 192 horsepower. Expect the Sonata Hybrid to deliver a zippy performance around town. When accelerating from a traffic light, good low-end torque allows you to enjoy brisk acceleration. Of course, fuel efficiency is a serious priority for the new Sonata Hybrid. Hyundai anticipates it to exceed last year’s model, which delivered a combined 42 mpg.

3. Numerous Green Features

While some people will simply enjoy the Sonata Hybrid’s fuel savings, others will enjoy its eco-friendly design. It offers several green features, including a solar-panel roof. As you drive, the solar panels quietly collect energy from the sun. This extra energy helps replenish the car’s battery pack. To enhance the sedan’s aerodynamics, Hyundai equips it with unique alloy wheels that reduce wind drag. Because the Sonata Hybrid will produce fewer emissions than a traditional car, drivers won’t have to worry about hurting the environment as much.

4. Jaw-Dropping Exterior Styling

You can rank the 2020 Hyundai Sonata among the best-looking hybrid sedans on the market. It looks a lot like the conventional Sonata. The biggest difference is the hybrid’s hidden exhaust tip. A sweeping hood and striking LED headlights create an eye-catching look from the front. Hyundai also equips the hybrid model with a special grille and a small trunk spoiler. On the rear, handsome taillights further enhance the Sonata Hybrid’s modern styling. Some stimulating paint colors are available as well.

5. An Affordable Hybrid with a Great Warranty

According to insiders, the 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid will continue to offer affordability. Last’s year model had a budget-friendly sticker price of less than $26,000. Most European models have a noticeably higher MSRP. You will also benefit from the Sonata Hybrid’s cost-cutting warranty. A lifetime battery warranty gives you one less thing to worry about. If the battery happens to fail, Hyundai will replace it at no cost to you. Meanwhile, its hybrid powertrain is covered for 100,000 miles.

6. Very Good Infotainment System

All versions of the Sonata Hybrid will receive Hyundai’s latest Blue Link infotainment system. This feature will be a big highlight for tech-savvy drivers. When selecting icons, the interface’s large touchscreen reacts quickly without any delay. Clear graphics make this infotainment system more satisfying. Smartphone integration is also among the best in the industry. It only takes a few seconds for your mobile apps to load. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, which means you don't have to upgrade to a costlier trim.

7. Spacious, Relaxing Family Vehicle

The Sonata Hybrid is more than just a gas saver. It also treats your family and friends to a relaxing ride. Excellent placement of the sedan’s battery pack ensures optimum interior room. Even tall folks sitting in the rear will have enough space for their knees. If you decide to venture out of town for the weekend, comfort will remain high for everyone. The top trim provides heating and ventilating functions for the front seats. There’s also enough trunk space for stuff like groceries and clothes.

8. All of the Most Important Safety Features

While the 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid has yet to receive an NHTSA overall safety rating, it is expected to receive five stars. Hyundai also offers the Sonata with some potentially life-saving safety technologies. Safe Exit Assist is a major confidence-booster for families. By monitoring for approaching vehicles, this feature helps prevent kids from opening their doors into traffic. Hyundai has also introduced a Blind-Spot View Monitor for the Sonata Hybrid, which allows you to see the sedan’s blind spots.

9. New Bose Premium Sound System Arrives

A new Bose sound system is optional on the redesigned Sonata Hybrid. It replaces last year’s Infinity unit. This powerful system distributes a total of 12 speakers throughout the cabin. A 9.0-inch woofer in the rear allows you to experience deep bass. Meanwhile, Bose Centerpoint technology helps ensure a balanced sound.

10. Digital Key

A Digital Key is found on the 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. It’s far more rewarding than a traditional key fob. After downloading an app, you can hit the road without a key. Near-field communication technology makes opening doors easier. Simply place your phone directly on the door handle. Drivers can also use the Digital Key to remotely start the engine and set the interior climate.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid – The Cons

1. Won’t Offer All-Wheel Drive

If you live in an area where it snows a lot, think twice about buying a new Sonata Hybrid. Every trim features a FWD setup. When leaving home on a wintry day, an all-wheel-drive system will inspire you with greater confidence. Folks who must deal with snow on a regular basis should consider buying a hybrid crossover. Some good options include the new Lexus UX250h and the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

2. You May Desire a Stronger Kick

Most people will enjoy driving the 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Its enhanced transmission really improves overall performance. Nevertheless, some people will still desire more power. While there are some more powerful hybrid sedans on the market, most of them carry a more expensive price tag.

3. No Sports-Tuned Suspension Offered

With its standard suspension, the Sonata Hybrid offers inspiring road handling. Its steering system also has a good feel. However, don’t mistake the Sonata Hybrid for a sports sedan. You won’t have access to performance upgrades like sports-tuned suspension dampers and stickier street tires. If these upgrades are high on your wish list, go for a conventional model like the new Toyota Camry.

4. Will It Be Reliable?

The previous-generation Sonata Hybrid was fairly dependable. However, we don’t know if the redesigned model will be reliable. This fact tends to be true for any all-new model. Fortunately, Hyundai’s excellent warranty will make your purchase less of a risk.

5. Not an Electric Car

Although the Sonata Hybrid may be better for the environment, it’s still not as eco-friendly as an electric car. This car will produce at least some pollution. The 2020 Hyundai Ioniq Electric is a good alternative for city dwellers, which boasts an electric driving range of 170 miles.

How It Stacks Up Against the Competition

2020 Honda Accord Hybrid

The Accord Hybrid is a solid option. Its fuel economy rating ranks among the best in the class. However, a quick-shifting automatic transmission gives the 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid an advantage. Some people may also be more drawn to the Sonata Hybrid’s stunning styling cues. Cutting-edge safety technologies, like a blind-spot camera and Safe Exit Assist, are not offered on the Honda Accord.

2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid
Strong fuel economy and a reputation for being trustworthy make the Camry Hybrid a good choice. However, you may have more fun driving the new 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Like the Accord Hybrid, the Camry Hybrid doesn’t offer certain safety technologies.

2020 Ford Fusion Hybrid

Critics give the Fusion Hybrid solid marks for its quiet interior and impressive infotainment system. However, it sacrifices some rear headroom. While Ford offers the Fusion Hybrid with a blind-spot monitor, Hyundai goes a step further with its optional Blind-Spot View Camera. When it comes to overall performance, the Sonata Hybrid takes the lead.

Conclusion

While the previous Sonata Hybrid offered a lot of value, the new model delivers an improved driving experience. You’ll also enjoy its upgraded list of features. Because the 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid has such a cool look, you can save fuel and ride in style. Most importantly, it provides the interior space that today’s families need. A lifetime battery warranty sweetens the deal.

Are there any big reasons why you shouldn’t buy a new Sonata Hybrid? For some people, the biggest deal breaker will be the absence of all-wheel drive. This feature is often a must-have commodity for folks living in the North.