As its name suggests, the 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid sedan can be plugged into an electrical outlet or charging station to charge its lithium-ion battery pack. That battery is five times larger than the one in the automaker's regular Sonata Hybrid, giving the Sonata Plug-in Hybrid's upsized electric motor the ability to propel this midsize sedan up to 27 miles in all-electric mode.

The advantage should be obvious. There's none of the range anxiety experienced by drivers of all-electric vehicles because once the battery's charge is depleted, the Sonata's internal combustion engine comes online and the car operates as a normal gasoline-electric hybrid. The result is 99 miles per gallon equivalent when you figure in the all-electric range and a solid 39 mpg in traditional hybrid mode. Besides its powertrain, the Sonata Plug-in Hybrid offers the same traits as the regular Sonata, such as a roomy interior, a pleasant driving demeanor and a long list of standard features. Overall, the 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid's combination of plug-in capability and traditional midsize sedan strengths makes it a solid pick.

Trim tested

The 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid is a midsize family sedan offered in two trim levels: base and Limited. Under the hood is 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 50-kilowatt (67-horsepower) electric motor. Total system output is 202 hp, delivered to the front wheels by way of a six-speed automatic transmission. The base Plug-in Hybrid comes well-equipped with features, so the Limited mostly adds on luxury-oriented features plus a few extra driver safety aids.

You'll likely be quite happy with the base model's standard equipment. Highlights include 17-inch wheels, heated mirrors, a hands-free trunklid, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, a power driver seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone app integration, an 8-inch touchscreen and a seven-speaker sound system with satellite radio.

If you are looking for more, though, step up to the Limited. You'll get xenon headlights, adaptive cruise control, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a power front passenger seat, a heated steering wheel, driver-seat memory settings and an upgraded nine-speaker Infinity sound system. The Limited also comes with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, rear parking sensors and automatic high-beam headlight control.

The sole factory option, offered only on the Limited, is an interior trim package with distinctive blue leather.

Driving

The Plug-in accelerates to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds, which is average for a hybrid sedan. We like the six-speed automatic transmission as it provides a more traditional shifting experience than a CVT. Less impressive is the grabby feel of the Sonata Hybrid's brake pedal.

Comfort

The Plug-in Hybrid's ride is smooth on all manner of pavement, and the cabin is quiet at highway speeds. This is a car that will get you to your destination without wearing you out. It's not an exciting car to drive, certainly, but the Sonata Hybrid heads where you point it.

Interior

The Plug-in Hybrid's cabin is roomy and comfortable. The seats are supportive and nicely padded, and the cabin itself is remarkably quiet. There's plenty of head-, legroom and shoulder room and a vast backseat, although rear headroom is tighter than in the hybrid's competitors.

Utility

The Sonata Plug-in Hybrid's trunk is smaller because of the larger battery pack, leaving just 9.9 cubic feet of cargo room compared to the Sonata Hybrid's 13.3 cubic feet. The Toyota Prius Prime's hatchback design has more cargo-carrying versatility.

Technology

The 8-inch touchscreen has crisp graphics and straightforward menus, although some drivers might find that it's a bit of a stretch to reach comfortably. A unique gauge cluster displaying various hybrid system readouts is one of the few visible indicators that you're driving a gas-electric car.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid.

Overall Consumer Rating

4.25 reviews

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5(80%)

4(0%)

3(0%)

2(0%)

1(20%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

Just enough battery to do the job...

Rob Davy,11/12/2016

I commute 34 miles each way to work. The battery on this car has been able to get me almost all the way to work with minimal use of gas (like 2 to 14 miles of gas depending on my charge percentage). When I charge at work, I have actually been able to get all the way home just on battery. I am 6'7" tall and I fit very comfortably in this car. And, that actually says a lot considering I am a very large man as well. Being able to fit was obviously my number one most important criteria. My buying decision also included carpool lane access criteria. This car is allowed to drive in the carpool lane in Utah. But, you have to have a C Decal, which is won only through a lottery process. I happened to already have access with my Prius, so I was allowed to transfer the permit. My third factor was tax credits. This vehicle is eligible in Utah for $1000 of tax credits at the state level. And, it is eligible for around $5000 of tax credits at the federal level. So, that knocks $6000 off the price at tax time (assuming you are able to claim it). It is good to know that if you can't take all of the deductions or credits in year one, then the government will allow you to take the remaining credit the following year. When gas prices are low, the breakeven period for this car takes much longer. But, high gas prices can make the break even period much shorter. Of course, the price of electricity is also a critical factor. The fact that this car has a lifetime warranty on its battery (for the first buyer) is comforting. I was told that the battery warranty is not transferable, so that is something to consider. I think that this PHEV (plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) offering is one of the most compelling in the segment. The Prius prime gets 15 miles per gallon better fuel efficiency, but you lose one of the back seats. And, you gain 5 miles of electric-only range in the Sonata. And, that is a big deal for people with a 34 mile each way commute like myself. The Ford C-Max received very poor ratings by consumer reports, so that one is out. The Audi E-Tron is a very fun car to drive, but it is smaller and has lower specs on both gas mileage and electric-only range. The Kia Optima looked comparable (or perhaps a bit better), but it is not available in Utah at this time. Availability in your state depends on whether or not a given dealer has two trained technicians that can work on PHEVs. I admit that I am still very new to this experience of driving electric cars, but I love how quiet the car drives. And, I love the thought of saving money and avoiding gas stations whenever possible. So, as for me, I believe this vehicle is an outstanding value. I am not a tree hugger by any means, but this car makes me happy from the standpoint of keeping money in my pocketbook. So, I say it is a great buy! I am a mechanical engineer, and I am not easily impressed. But, this one is impressive.

Great commuter

Ray,03/09/2018

I don't normally review anything, but I feel compelled to write about this car. With a daily round trip commute of 108 miles, I was tired of the constant trips to gas stations and the expense. After just a month with this car, I am blown away. It is the most economical, practical, comfortable commuter vehicle that you can buy. Never being a big fan of Hyundai, I was skeptical on a

Great ride and value

Elizabeth Seale,11/14/2016

I have always been a Toyota or Honda owner the luxury and comfort of this car is great and the technology and user friendliness beats both Toyota and Honda.

If only the dealer knew...

J. Newton,02/16/2018

We were shopping hybrids for my wife to save gas (work is a 35 mile round trip). We also looked at plug-ins and full electrics. Tesla - too expensive (and too long a wait for the Model 3). BMW i3 - Really harsh ride and not an inviting space. Prius - boring and harsh ride. Honda - comfortable, reasonable mileage. Mini Countryman PHEV - fun but somewhat expensive with options.

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Features & Specs

MSRP

$38,600

MPG

N/A city / N/A hwy

Seats 5

6-speed shiftable automatic

Hybrid

202 hp @ 6000 rpm

MSRP

$34,600

MPG

N/A city / N/A hwy

Seats 5

6-speed shiftable automatic

Hybrid

202 hp @ 6000 rpm

MSRP

$38,600

MPG

N/A city / N/A hwy

Seats 5

6-speed shiftable automatic

Hybrid

202 hp @ 6000 rpm

See all 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Sonata Plug-in Hybrid safety features:

Forward Collision Warning: Provides an audible warning if a collision with a vehicle ahead of you is imminent.
Blind-Spot Detection: Monitors driver's blind spots and provides a warning for risky lane changes.
Lane Departure Warning: Provides an audible and visual warning if you drift outside of your lane.

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More about the 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid

The 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-In Hybrid isn't coy about what makes it special — it is quite obviously the plug-in hybrid version of the Hyundai Sonata family sedan. But what does that include, exactly? Well, with a much larger battery than the one in the regular Sonata hybrid, it can travel 27 miles on electricity alone before effectively becoming a regular hybrid and returning 39 mpg combined. It's also capable of being replenished by plugging the car into a wall socket or a dedicated charging station you can install in the garage or find in various spots around town.

Those figures may pale in comparison to what you'd get from some other more dedicated hybrids — plug-in or otherwise — but it's important to remember that with the Sonata you're getting a more spacious, family-friendly vehicle. It's considerably quieter and more refined, with a well-made cabin that eschews the typical futuristic design aesthetic typical of advanced green cars. Visually, it doesn't draw attention to its eco-ness, which can be a plus for many. Now, it does have a rather small trunk, but among plug-in hybrid sedans, it's actually among the biggest you can get.

The Sonata Plug-In Hybrid's powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an electric motor powered by a 9.8-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Total system output is 202 hp. Given its 27 miles of estimated range and 39-mpg combined battery-depleted estimate, the EPA indicates the Sonata Plug-In Hybrid will return a 99 miles per gallon equivalent. That compares favorably to other plug-in hybrids.

Two trim levels are available: base and Limited. Even the base car includes alloy wheels, automatic headlights, a hands-free trunklid, keyless ignition and entry, a leather-wrapped wheel, heated front seats, a power driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems, an 8-inch touchscreen and satellite radio. The Limited adds high-end items such as xenon headlights, leather, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, driver-seat memory settings, adaptive cruise control and additional accident-avoidance tech.

That's a ton of standard equipment, but know that, as a result, the Sonata does have a higher base price than its rivals. It's not quite the budget buy you might expect from a Hyundai, but it's also good enough that you get what you pay for. As such, the 2017 Sonata Plug-In Hybrid is a must test-drive for anyone looking for such an eco-friendly car. Let Edmunds help you find the perfect match and a great deal on a new Sonata sedan.

2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid Overview

The 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid is offered in the following submodels: Sonata Plug-in Hybrid Sedan. Available styles include Limited 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A), 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A), and Limited w/Blue Pearl Interior 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A).

What do people think of the 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2017 Sonata Plug-in Hybrid 4 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2017 Sonata Plug-in Hybrid.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2017 Sonata Plug-in Hybrid featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid?

2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A)

The 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $35,610. The average price paid for a new 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A) is trending $4,675 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $4,675 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$30,935.

The average savings for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A) is13.1% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 3 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

Which 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrids are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid for sale near. There are currently 3 new 2017 Sonata Plug-in Hybrids listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $35,610 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $6,146 on a used or CPO 2017 Sonata Plug-in Hybrid available from a dealership near you.

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Should I lease or buy a 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

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2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid

2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid pricing

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Technology

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