The Sonata’s plug-in hybrid drivetrain is centered around a 2.0-liter four-cylinder GDI engine that makes 154 horsepower and 140 lb-ft. of torque. The four-banger works with a 50-kilowatt electric motor that replaces the torque converter in the hybrid-specific six-speed automatic gearbox to deliver a total output of 202 horsepower at 6,000 rpm.
The electric motor uses electricity stored in a 9.8 kWh lithium polymer battery pack to power the Sonata by itself for up to 22 miles. With both power sources running, the sedan returns 38 mpg in the city, 43 mpg on the highway and 40 mpg in a mixed cycle. The battery pack can be fully recharged in as little as two hours by using a 240-volt Level 2 charger or in five hours when using a standard 120-volt outlet.
Visually, the Sonata plug-in hybrid stands out from the standard gas-powered model thanks to a model-specific radiator grille, unique bumpers on both ends, new wheels, revised head and tail lights and, of course, a charging port integrated into the driver-side fender. Additionally, buyers can choose from two hybrid-specific paint colors called Graphite Blue Pearl and Seaport Mist, respectively.
The interior has been upgraded with a new instrument cluster that provides vital information about the drivetrain such as how much juice is left in the battery pack. A charge indicator located on top of the dashboard lets the driver check on the pack’s state of charge without turning on the ignition.
A purpose-designed smartphone application called Blue Link makes it possible for Sonata plug-in owners to manage a number of functions remotely. The Blue Link app can be used to lock, unlock and start the car and to set a charging schedule. It can also provide real-time information such as the battery level, the electric or fuel range and the charge status.
The Sonata Plug-in Hybrid will go on sale in California, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island and Vermont this year. Hyundai has not announced pricing information.
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