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Hyundai Slashes Price Of Plug-In Hybrid Sonata, Electric Range Increased
More of everything we like for less coin.
Hyundai is introducing a new 2018 model year Sonata Plug-In Hybrid with a lower price, slightly higher electric range and more value.
The South Korean plug-in hybrid hasn’t been a big seller in the U.S. as only 6,141 were delivered during its 32 months on the market at an average of below 200 a month. The Sonata PHEV was awaiting a new version with low sales this year (just 351 in the first half) and now here it is.
The most significant change is to the price – $33,250 (plus $885 destination fee), which was cut by $1,350. The Plug-In Sonata comes with a federal tax credit of $4,919, which means you can own one from $29,216.
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The second change is higher electric range, but only by one mile – from 27 to 28 miles (EPA) and 600 miles total. The improved range using the same 9.8 kWh battery must have something to do with efficiency, or perhaps aero. Electric motor output remains at just 50 kW.
There are tweaks to the looks of the new Sonata too:
“The advanced exterior includes a more dynamic front fascia featuring new sheet metal for the hood and front fenders, incorporating the new Hyundai signature cascading grille shape, while a new rear deck lid allows for a sleeker, coupe-like appearance. In addition, the redesigned 17-inch eco-spoke alloy wheel, distinctive blue bezel headlights and taillights with clear outer lens further highlight the refreshed design of the Plug-In Hybrid model.”
Other changes and value-added benefits are:
- New instrument panel center stack
- New steering wheel
- New infotainment features
- New available safety features include Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection
- LED Headlights with Dynamic Bending Light
- Lane Keep Assist
- Driver Attention Alert
- Heated steering wheel
- Wireless charging pad for Qi compatible devices
- Second row USB port
2018 Hyundai Sonata PHEV
2018 Hyundai Sonata PHEV
Press blast:
Hyundai Lowers Price, Increases Value on New 2018 Sonata Plug-In Hybrid
- Entry level model price reduction of $1,350
- All electric driving range increases to 28 miles; EPA total driving range increases by 10 miles to an impressive 600 miles
- New instrument panel center stack, steering wheel and infotainment features
- New available safety features include Automatic Emergency Braking and Lane Keep Assist
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., July 19, 2018 – The refreshed 2018 Hyundai Sonata Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) adopts the same distinctive design of the recently released Sonata gasoline and Hybrid models while delivering 28 miles of all-electric range, feature enhancements and a lower starting price. The starting price for the 2018 Sonata Hybrid Plug-In is $33,250, a $1,350 reduction from the 2017 model, furthering the value-added benefits of Hyundai eco-friendly vehicles. The price of Sonata Plug-in Hybrid Limited model increases by $250, but now comes with all these new features:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection
- LED Headlights with Dynamic Bending Light
- Lane Keep Assist
- Driver Attention Alert
- Heated steering wheel
- Wireless charging pad for Qi compatible devices
- Second row USB port
The value proposition is further enhanced as the vehicle qualifies for a $4,919 Federal Tax Credit along with other state-level incentives. The 2018 Sonata Plug-In Hybrid is available now at Hyundai dealerships.
2018 Sonata Plug-In Hybrid Pricing Model Engine Transmission MSRP Sonata Plug-In Hybrid 2.0L Hybrid Engine with 50kw Electric Motor 6-Speed Automatic $33,250 Sonata Plug-In Hybrid Limited 2.0L Hybrid Engine with 50kw Electric Motor 6-Speed Automatic $38,850 Freight charges for the 2018 Sonata Plug-In Hybrid are $885
MODEL YEAR CHANGES FOR 2018
Sonata Plug-in Hybrid
- All-electric range improved by 1 mile (27 -> 28 miles)
- New available features:
- Forward Collision Warning now enhanced with Automatic Emergency Braking function
- Lane Departure Warning now adds Lane Keep Assist function
- Additional USB charge port
- Wireless charging pad for mobile devices
- Heated steering wheel
- Bi-function LED headlights with dynamic bending light
Sonata Plug-in Hybrid Limited
- New available features:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection
- LED Headlights with Dynamic Bending Light
- Lane Keep Assist
- Driver Attention Alert
- Heated steering wheel
- Wireless charging pad for Qi compatible devices
- Second row USB port
Hyundai’s award-winning Plug-In Hybrid technology combines the best of both worlds by offering customers the emissions-free operation of an electric vehicle (99 EPA estimated MPGe) combined with the flexibility and efficiency of a hybrid vehicle (39 EPA estimated MPG). Sonata Plug-In Hybrid’s 28 mile all-electric range is ideal for commuting purposes and combined with the 572 mile range in hybrid mode, total driving range is an impressive 600 miles.
The 2018 Sonata Plug-in Hybrid’s efficient 2.0L GDI 4-cylinder Atkinson Cycle engine and the powerful 50 kW (67 HP) electric motor are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission for a more familiar and natural operation feel compared to competitors use of CVTs. The 50 kW electric motor is 32 percent more powerful than the motor used in Sonata Hybrid and allows for EV operation at higher engine load and speed. The state-of-the-art 9.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery system is more than five times larger than the Sonata Hybrid’s battery and can be charged using a 240V Level 2 charging station in two hours and 42 minutes. Sonata Plug-in Hybrid’s battery can also be charged overnight using the Level 1 charger equipped with the vehicle.
Exterior Redesign
The advanced exterior includes a more dynamic front fascia featuring new sheet metal for the hood and front fenders, incorporating the new Hyundai signature cascading grille shape, while a new rear deck lid allows for a sleeker, coupe-like appearance. In addition, the redesigned 17-inch eco-spoke alloy wheel, distinctive blue bezel headlights and taillights with clear outer lens further highlight the refreshed design of the Plug-In Hybrid model.
Interior Update
The Sonata Plug-In Hybrid’s interior has also been updated with a revised center stack area and instrument cluster that provides an improved sense of dimension while the steering wheel now has a sportier leather-wrapped three-spoke design.
Standard and Optional FeaturesSonata Plug-In Hybrid
The Sonata Plug-In Hybrid MSRP is $33,250, excluding the $885 freight, and includes the following standard equipment:
- 2.0L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) 4-cylinder Engine
- Permanent magnet high-power density motor (50 kW)
- 8kWh lithium ion-polymer battery system
- EPA estimated 28 All-Electric Range and 99 MPGe in EV mode
- 6-speed automatic transmission with drive mode select
- Blind Spot Detection (BSD) w/ Rear Cross Traffic Alert & Lane Change Assist
- Rearview backup camera
- VSM/ESC/TCS/ABS/TPMS
- Front, front seat side, curtain and drivers knee airbags
- 17-inch Eco-spoke alloy wheels
- LED Daytime Running Lights
- LED taillights
- Automatic headlight control
- Side mirror-mounted turn signal indicators
- Heated side mirror
- Proximity key w/ push button start
- Hands-free smart trunk opener
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
- 8-way power driver seat w/ lumbar support
- 6-way manual passenger seat (height-adjustable)
- Heated front seats
- 2-inch color LCD trip computer
- Tilt and telescopic steering wheel w/ cruise and audio controls
- Dual automatic temperature control
- Auto-dimming mirror w/ HomeLink® and compass
- Auto up/down driver & passenger window
- Tire mobility kit (TMK) in lieu of temporary spare tire
- 7-inch color touchscreen Display Audio
- Apple Carplay™ & Android Auto™
- iPod®/USB and AUX input jacks
- Integrated Bluetooth® w/ phonebook transfer
- SiriusXM® satellite radio
- HD Radio™ technology
- Blue Link® Connected Car Services
- Blue Link® Connected Care Package (for 3-years, enrollment required)
- Blue Link® Remote Package (for 3-years, enrollment required)
- USB charge port (2nd row floor console)
Sonata Plug-In Hybrid Limited
The Sonata Plug-In Hybrid Limited MSRP is $38,850, excluding the $885 freight charge, and includes all of the Sonata Plug-In Hybrid equipment plus the following features:
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS)
- Driver Attention Warning System
- Rear parking sensors
- Automatic high beam assist
- Smart Cruise Control (SCC) w/ stop/start capability
- Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) w/ Auto Vehicle Hold
- LED headlights w/ Dynamic Bending Lights
- Chrome side rocker moldings
- Leather seating surfaces
- 6-way power passenger seat
- Integrated Memory System (IMS) – driver seat and outside mirrors
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Wood grain interior trim inserts
- Premium door sill plates
- Navigation System w/ 8-inch Color Touchscreen Display
- Infinity® premium audio system
- SiriusXM® Travel Link®
- Blue Link® Guidance Package (for 3-years, enrollment required)
- Wireless device charging
Categories: Hyundai
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40 Comments on "Hyundai Slashes Price Of Plug-In Hybrid Sonata, Electric Range Increased"
Still no electric cabin heat, I’m guessing?
Not a chance. I just checked, no pigs flying outside where I am, so still no electric cabin heat from Hyundai/Kia.
This seems like a minor concession, no?
No. Without it, the ICE has to come on to accomplish any heating of the car.
Alternative is to drastically reduce electric range. It’s not as clear-cut advantage as people make it seem imo.
I “not like” 9.8KWh
For what batteries can do, it’s worth spending more than $2-3k to make a good PHEV.
At which point, given the design of the Sonata, essentially the entire trunk would be filled with batteries instead of just half of it.
PHEV = gas car. In Germany no one charges them. They are just cheaper to buy.
Ignorance is bliss…just as intelligent as calling all EVs coal cars…
Speak for yourself. My German PHEV gets charged every day. Every day I see about three or four other PHEVs on my way to work and two of them are almost always plugged in.
I agree though, there needs to be more low speed roadside charging infrastructure in residential neighbourhoods and more subsidies for private chargers would be nice. At least let people deduct the price from their taxes.
I don’t believe that. Most people don’t pay more for the PHEV and not charge it.
Maybe he means those stupid PHEVs which have like 10 miles electric range that people don’t bother charging. Some also don’t know the difference. I know a person who bought a Porsche Cayane PHEV and he bought it cause it was a special edition model, he treats it like his lexus hybrid. I told him about the charging and stuff, but when he learned that it is only 14 miles he didn’t think it was worth the hassle. (The newer model has 27 miles which is a lot better but still somewhat low)
This is why it ticks me off when PHEVs have less than 40 miles electric range. If a PHEV can’t do an average commute on only electric range, a lot of people are not going to bother. And these low range PHEVs are eating up subsidies too which should go towards cars that are being charged.
The average commute is way shorter than 40 miles… So this EV can easily do the average commute on electricity.
And with some ignorant owners there are 99 others to make up for it by charging their vehicles. And all vehicles will end up on the second hand market sooner or later, picked up by a new owner that will charge it.
It is all good. All plugins make a difference.
No thanks. I will no longer buy a car with ICE.
…because you already have one?
Um ok. Do you post your stamp of disapproval in every car review out there, except the one you intend to buy?
No thanks, trunk is not big enough in this sports car.
No thanks, this minivan seats 7, I want 5.
No thanks, this convertible is missing a conventional roof.
Ford will not make the Fusion Energi soon, less competition.
Ford looks like they are taking the “we are going out of business ” strategy to the future….heck not making cars any longer in the US as gas prices start to climb….great plan Ford!!!
Part of me is like, I could get a 1st gen Volt for 13k-15K and have a way better PHEV. I know that’s not fair but it’s true.
Coming from someone who owned a Volt and now an ELR they are very small cars. I would never put an adult in the back of my Volt and only my 6 year old sits in the ELR. The Sonata is definitely not in the same size class. If you don’t need the space for passengers a used Volt is a great choice.
It’s impressive how they managed to make the Volt so big on the outside (footprint) and so small on the inside. Most manufacturers try to do the opposite. My Ampera-E is just for commuting and the Leaf is the big family vehicle where everyone fits with ease…
Good on them for dropping the price.
1 mile more EPA EV range 27<28mi. is definitely progress, but hardly noticeable, when compared to a few other PHEVs, with significantly better EV range, like the Chevy Volt and Honda Clarity PHEV.
Maybe the 2018 Hyundai Sonata Plug-In Hybrid can chip away at a larger percentage of the Prius Prime monthly sales numbers, here in the US.
Not at that price. The PriPri benefits from the general Prius halo and renowned Toyota reliability, so it’s going to continue to sell well regardless of what else appears in that segment. Hopefully, the segment instead grows which means more plug-ins being sold. Also, it’s worth pointing out that this still isn’t a great value at all since the Clarity PHEV is effectively cheaper after incentives and potentially is a more luxurious car, especially at that price point.
Not to mention I get 40 mpg driving almost 80 mph in my Clarity loaded with stuff. Unbelievable gas mileage.
It is hard to find of if a car doesn’t have a desired feature. Does anyone know if this new version will have fold-down rear seats?
I doubt it. It would require major structural changes to the body in white to solve the whole battery-in-trunk problem that the Sonata has. They’re not going to do that at this point in the car’s life cycle.
Well, that leaves it off my list right away.
Honda ClarityPHV is much better value. If (big) size matters, ClarityPHV is even better value than Volt.
Except the Clarity is a parallel drivetrain and the Volt serial, meaning you get the true EV experience 97% of your trips in the Volt. For the 3% long miles your either lug a big battery or you lug a range extender. I like both vehicles. I like the space much better in the Clarity, but I wouldn’t trade the drive experience of the Volt for the difference.
You are absolutely correct, of course. That’s why I prepended “If (big) size matters”.
I’m pretty sure the driving experience between the Clarity PHEV and the Volt are pretty identical except that the Honda has the detent thing going on. Otherwise, Clarity owners are getting basically the same experience as those in the Clarity Electric.
The Volt is not really a serial hybrid. Like most advanced hybrid designs, it uses a mix of serial and parallel operation. What matters is an electric motor powerful enough to provide a good driving experience in all-electric mode — which is a given in a serial hybrid, but it doesn’t mean a parallel hybrid can’t have one.
The Clarity claims to have a powerful electric motor; so I don’t expect any problem there.
Isn’t the Optima PHEV essentially the same car? If so, then it should be getting the same “upgrades” soon too. Not stellar, but more choices are good.
Optima is already 29 miles. Driving it for a year now, system shows 44MPG on the freeway, 85MPG in the city (mostly electric)
…
When is Hyundai getting animal products out of their cars. Thanks Tesla 🐮🐰.
A 50kW electric motor is just not going to cut it. With no more electric power than that the gas engine will be continuously coming on during normal driving. The Volt uses a 111kW electric motor to prevent this.
It had no choice but to lower the price! Honda Clarity is much better choice with 20 more all electric miles.
My 2016 hybrid Hyundai nonPHEV range gets from just under 600 to as high as 634 miles. Lots more trunk space but a few less electronics & no problemmatic skylight. It Cruises 75 on I5 comfortable and drifts in and out of EV mode. Great passing, on ramp acceleration, hill climbing by either sport mode or manual select shift. Great for two for touring or go see grand kids.