2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review
- High fuel economy
- Comfortable ride quality
- Offers lots of safety and technology features
- Enjoyable and easy to drive
- Lower-quality interior materials than some rivals
- Road and wind noise is a bit elevated
- No significant changes for 2021
- Part of the seventh Sonata generation introduced for 2020
A midsize hybrid family sedan, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid combines high style with high technology. Plus, the car is an incredible value, and not just from price and efficiency perspectives. From generous warranty coverage and free scheduled maintenance to a lengthy trial period to the company's Blue Link remote connected services, the Sonata Hybrid makes a case for itself that the left hemisphere of your brain cannot refute.
After an abbreviated 2020 model year, for which it was redesigned, the 2021 Sonata Hybrid rolls into the new year without any changes. What's different is the competitive landscape. With the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Kia Optima Hybrid discontinued, this Hyundai's only remaining direct competitors include the Honda Accord Hybrid and Toyota Camry Hybrid, against which it acquits itself well. Interested? Check our Expert Rating to get our in-depth take on the 2021 Sonata Hybrid.
Our verdict | |
The Sonata Hybrid grabs your attention with distinctive styling and cool features such as an available solar panel roof. It's more efficient than its predecessor and packed with tons of attractive technology. Add in a pleasing driving experience, abundant comfort and a spacious cabin, and you've got one of the best hybrid sedans available. | |
How does the Sonata Hybrid drive? | |
The Sonata Hybrid is adequate from a performance perspective. Acceleration feels good off the line but tapers off once you're rolling. Essentially, it feels zippy around town but may take some planning to pass cars at freeway speeds. In Edmunds testing, our Sonata Hybrid test car covered 0-60 mph in 8.3 seconds. That's about as quick as the Camry Hybrid but a little slower than the Honda Accord Hybrid. Around turns, the Sonata Hybrid feels balanced and controlled. It's also easy to drive around town. The six-speed automatic transmission is quicker to downshift than the continuously variable transmissions in the Accord Hybrid and Camry Hybrid. In general, the Sonata Hybrid drives a lot like a regular car, which could be a high point for some buyers. The brakes also feel pretty natural without any of the hybrid weirdness that can stem from blending regenerative and regular braking processes. | |
How comfortable is the Sonata Hybrid? | |
The Sonata Hybrid is a pretty comfortable car, but it isn't perfect. The front seats have a nice shape to them, but we found the padding a bit stiff, which can reduce your comfort on long trips. The outboard rear seats are nice and cushy, but the middle seat is stiff and uncomfortable. Ride comfort is a high point and strikes a good balance between being compliant and controlled. The Sonata Hybrid's suspension absorbs impacts well without being overly floaty or soft when you take on curvy roads. The climate control system blows strong and cold at its max and is very effective at regulating cabin temperature in auto mode. Surprisingly, road and wind noise is higher than average. It's not bothersome or loud, but you know that it's there. There's some engine noise at freeway speeds as well. | |
How’s the interior? | |
The Sonata Hybrid's interior is intuitive to learn. The center stack controls are easily reachable for both driver and front passenger. The sharp and responsive 10.25-inch infotainment screen (in the SEL trim level) is also easy to read and use. There's plenty of interior room for front occupants, and rear-seat legroom is among the best in the segment. Most drivers will find that it is easy to settle into a comfortable driving position due to the decent range of adjustments that come from the seat and steering wheel. Visibility is good to the front and sides. But rear visibility is a little impeded because of the thick rear window pillars, sloping rear roofline and high rear deck. | |
How’s the tech? | |
The Sonata Hybrid is loaded with tech and everything works pretty well. It leads the segment in infotainment screen size and response. It also has a segment-first solar panel roof that charges the hybrid battery when the car's moving or parked. Smartphone pairing and integration are excellent for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and they work with the wide-screen format. The screen is also great when using the available surround-view camera system while parking. The voice controls work well with natural speech commands for radio, navigation and phone. The advanced driving aids suite is comprehensive, and the aids work well in concert. The warning sensors can be sensitive but never annoying. The instrument panel features unique sideview cameras when merging into the left or right lane. | |
How’s the storage? | |
There's a good amount of storage in the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. It's easy to load things into the cargo area. The trunk is deep and broad, has a wide opening, and the hybrid battery doesn't intrude too much. Having rear-seat access levers in the cargo area is a plus. Inside, there's plenty of storage to keep small items. The center console area alone has plenty of spaces for multiple phones, electronic passes and other items. The console itself is about 5.5 inches deep, and the cupholders are sizable enough for larger cups and bottles. As for installing child safety seats, there's plenty of room in the rear for even a rear-facing seat. The lower car seat anchors are somewhat buried in the upholstery, so installation can be a little tedious. | |
How economical is the Sonata Hybrid? | |
The Sonata Hybrid SEL, our test car, has an EPA estimate of 47 mpg (45 city/51 highway). That's right about what the other top-performing midsize hybrid sedans get. A trim-matching Camry XLE is rated at 46 mpg, while the Accord is at 48 mpg. All comparable. We averaged 47.1 mpg during our mixed-driving evaluation route, which indicates the EPA's estimates seem to be spot-on. Hyundai also offers an optional solar panel for the Sonata Hybrid. It covers the length of the roof between the windshield and the rear glass. It directly charges both the 12-volt battery and hybrid battery pack, and Hyundai says the solar panel can potentially power about 2 miles of extra driving per day. Toyota offered a solar roof on the Prius in the early part of the last decade, so it's not an all-new idea, but the Prius' panel could only power the climate control system. | |
Is the Sonata Hybrid a good value? | |
The Sonata Hybrid delivers on Hyundai's strong value proposition, giving you a lot of features for your money. The Limited trim level, which is the model we tested, validates its top-level price with exclusive features such as a solar panel roof and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Warranty coverage is also fantastic, as Hyundai provides a five-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000-year powertrain warranty. The interior and exterior build quality looks pretty good too. The assembly is precise, though Honda and Mazda manage to do interiors a bit nicer. Perhaps it's the dominant gray interior texturing that still looks a little cheap. | |
Wildcard | |
Whether you enjoy squeezing the most miles from every gallon of gasoline or having a hybrid that's enjoyable to drive on curvier roads, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a willing partner. It's big on visual appeal too. It looks sporty, sophisticated and futuristic at the same time. It's a head-turner in a fairly vanilla segment. | |
Which Sonata Hybrid does Edmunds recommend?
Of the Sonata Hybrid’s three trim levels, we recommend the SEL. The base Blue trim saves you a couple thousand dollars and is more fuel-efficient, and the upscale Limited trim grants access to numerous exclusive features and technologies. Yet the Sonata Hybrid SEL is the sweet spot, delivering appearance, comfort and convenience upgrades at a reasonable price.
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Hyundai Sonata Hybrid models
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a five-passenger midsize sedan that is available in three trim levels: Blue, SEL and Limited.
Save as much as $1,647 with Edmunds Click on the model you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal.
2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Blue
2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A
Edmunds Suggested Price$27,660
12 for sale in 20147
SEL
2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A
Edmunds Suggested Price$29,814
6 for sale in 20147
Limited
2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A
Edmunds Suggested Price$35,227
4 for sale in 20147
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.
Trending topics in reviews
- fuel efficiency
- technology
- safety
- interior
- driving experience
- electrical system
- comfort
- reliability & manufacturing quality
- road noise
- maintenance & parts
- off-roading
- engine
- brakes
- transmission
- warranty
- acceleration
- value
- appearance
- ride quality
Most helpful consumer reviews
4/5 stars, Great to drive fantastic fuel mileage
robertjoy,
Limited 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
Only had this vehicle for 2 weeks and purchased it because of its safety reviews and many safety features. I traded from a Jeep Renegade to this and this handles the road better than the Jeep. The issue I'm having is poor customer service from Hyundai and from the dealership. There's a noise that comes on at around 50mph plus my wife says it's from the front left-hand side I'm hearing it from there as well as from the rear. The other issue is with Blue Link, Hyundai does not seem able to assist or maybe they are overwhelmed, also the dealership is unable to assist as they say it's too new and they don't know enough in order to assist. The dealership is Weisner in Conroe Texas, they appear to be very disorganized and not interested in any form of Customer Service.
5/5 stars, Stylish and Luxurious
Bill,
Limited 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
This is a great car with all the bells and whistles. I have a limited edition and has great technology that is pretty easy to use. The ride is really smooth and the performance is outstanding. And, it looks good while also being stingy on the gas. I'm currently getting over 45mpg and it's still going up. I did have to learn to drive it somewhat assertively to ensure the battery continues to charge and you get the best fuel economy. I started driving it VERY conservatively thinking that would promote higher mpg but it didn't. I've only had the 2 months so I'm still getting used to everything but I love it thus far. I had a 2017 Sonata Hybrid Limited prior to this car and it was so dependable.
2/5 stars, Delicate Front Bumper Structure
Mark,
Limited 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
While otherwise a good car the facia attached adjacent to underneath the front bumper structure is prone to detachment during normal driving. When it partially detaches the car makes a loud scraping noise that makes it difficult to drive. I do not off road or otherwise drive abnormally and at less than 7,000 miles this part detached. I have never had that happen to any car I have driven in the past including Audis, Infiniti and a Toyota Supra (which I did drive somewhat aggressively as its a sports car). The dealer of course tries to blame me yet has no answer when I say it has never happened before. This is a weakness in the design of the Sonata Hybrid and will cost you up to $800 to repair if it happens to you. They refuse to cover it under warranty. The car is otherwise great but I can only give it two stars due to this problem. I cannot recommend the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.
4/5 stars, Good But Not Exceptional
Caruzin,
Limited 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)
I've had my 2021 Sonata Hybrid for 4 months now. Styling is a subjective issue so I won't dwell on that but I do prefer the front end treatment on the Hybrid Model over all the other 2021 Sonatas. The interior is beautiful and a wonderful place to spend time. Handling is spectacular BUT I personally would gladly trade off a couple notches of handling prowess for a couple notches of improvement in ride quality. This firm ride is more apparent at low speeds than on the highway. The technology and driver safety equipment is pretty remarkable with a couple caveats. Why have "Manual Gear Selection Capability" at all if the vehicle insists on reverting back to DRIVE within 10 seconds of selecting a specific gear. Not much good for using engine braking when driving in mountainous terrain. The fuel economy is actually pretty outstanding for a vehicle of this size BUT nowhere near as good as what the onboard "Guess-O-Meter" display would have you believe. It is as much as >15% optimistic compared to Real World Calculations. I keep all fuel receipts in a spreadsheet so I KNOW exactly what the vehicle actually delivers. EPA numbers have not yet been met BUT it has all been winter driving with snow tires so far so I'll wait to see how it all pans out over a full year. The Solar Roof is an interesting gimmick but it certainly points out the benefit of having solar cells pointing at/tracking the sun's position in the sky. The onboard display has certainly demonstrated that Spring is indeed on it's way. Yeah!
Helpful shopping links
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $27,750
- MPG & Fuel
- 50 City / 54 Hwy / 52 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: 6-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 192 hp @ 6000 rpm
- Torque: N/A
- Basic Warranty
- 5 yr./ 60000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 192.9 in. / Height: 56.9 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: N/A
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 73.2 in.
- Curb Weight: 3325 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 16.0 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Sonata Hybrid safety features:
- Smart Cruise Control
- Maintains a driver-selectable distance between the Sonata and the car in front.
- Surround View Monitor
- Provides a bird's-eye view of the car for ultimate parking precision.
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Warns if a vehicle is lurking in your blind spot and will intervene if you attempt to move into that occupied lane.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs. the competition
2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
2020 Honda Accord Hybrid
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs. Honda Accord Hybrid
The Honda Accord Hybrid offers several benefits over the Sonata Hybrid, including more power, a roomier back seat and a bigger trunk. We've previously expressed displeasure with the Accord Hybrid's noisy and uneven powertrain, but for 2021 Honda says it's taken steps to improve it. Otherwise, the Sonata Hybrid delivers better value and a higher level of technology in comparison to the Accord Hybrid.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs. Toyota Avalon Hybrid
Aside from offering a superior battery warranty and a roomier interior, the Toyota Avalon Hybrid struggles to match the Sonata Hybrid when it comes to value, especially given the car's lofty pricing. For what the Avalon Hybrid XLE costs without any options, you can instead choose a loaded Sonata Hybrid Limited with every available accessory. Unless you really need the passenger space, the Sonata is the best choice between the two.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs. Toyota Camry Hybrid
Long established as a reliable, efficient, safe and affordable hybrid midsize sedan, the Toyota Camry Hybrid lineup expands for the 2021 model year to include the sporty and upscale XSE trim. Toyota also enhances the car's standard driving assistance tech for the new model year and reduces prices to make it a better value. Choosing between the Sonata and Camry comes down to personal preference.
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FAQ
Is the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 Sonata Hybrid both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.1 out of 10. You probably care about Hyundai Sonata Hybrid fuel economy, so it's important to know that the Sonata Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 47 mpg to 52 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Sonata Hybrid has 16.0 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Learn more
What's new in the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid:
- No significant changes for 2021
- Part of the seventh Sonata generation introduced for 2020
Is the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid reliable?
To determine whether the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Sonata Hybrid. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Sonata Hybrid's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 Sonata Hybrid and gave it a 8.1 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 Sonata Hybrid is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid?
The least-expensive 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Blue 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $27,750.
Other versions include:
- Limited 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A) which starts at $35,300
- Blue 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A) which starts at $27,750
- SEL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A) which starts at $29,900
What are the different models of Hyundai Sonata Hybrid?
If you're interested in the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, the next question is, which Sonata Hybrid model is right for you? Sonata Hybrid variants include Limited 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A), Blue 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A), and SEL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A). For a full list of Sonata Hybrid models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more