Exciting news out of the Detroit Auto Show this January. Hyundai has debuted the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). The new hybrid sedan is touted to have class-leading 22-mile all-electric power, as well as a minimal recharge time of two and a half hours.
The new Sonata PHEV boasts an impressive powertrain that includes a 9.8 kWh lithium polymer battery pack, a 50 kW electric motor and a 2.0-liter Nu four-cylinder GDI engine. This powertrain is coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission and Hyundai's Transmission-Mounted Electrical Device (TMED). The pairing is expected to produce around 200 horsepower and 140 lb.-ft. of torque.
The PHEV's exterior sports similar aerodynamic designs as the current Sonata Hybrid. The PHEV does have its own unique design cues, including a new grille plate, new front and rear bumpers, chrome side sill moldings, new wheels and Hybrid badging. The car's interior has a distinct instrument cluster design, as well as a charge indicator that makes it easier to see the car's electric levels from outside of the car.
Drivers will have their choice between two paint colors: Seaport Mist and Graphite Blue Pearl. Inside, the car can be upholstered in gray and beige cloth or Blue Pearl leather with contrast stitching.
Another big addition to the Sonata PHEV is the Blue Link App. The app is a great way for owners to keep track of their data in real-time, such as the car's charging schedule. It also allows you to give the car specific commands like locking the doors or starting the engine.
No word yet on when the 2016 Hyundai Sonata PHEV will make its way to Van Hyundai, but we hope it will be sometime later this year. For now, take a look at our full line of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.
