2022 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review | Fuel-Sipping Excellence

[@alanrivlin1319]

I bought a 2022 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited this past November. I average 50 mpg. My overall impression of the car after driving it 6650 miles... It really is a practical, comfortable and enjoyable car. I have owned a Lexus SC430 (that I kept for 15 years) along with an Acura MDX and Genesis G-80 and a Porsche 911 (that I still have)... As an everyday driver, the Sonata is a winner. Honda, Toyota and Hyundai all make quality cars. I believe that a non-plug-in Hybrid makes more sense today. Fully electric cars are just not ready for prime time for most people today. I don't know why automobile manufacturers are not producing more hybrid vehicles. I believe they are the smartest and most practical way to go. The review I just watched was well done... Thanks Kirk

[@MrFiras60]

I want to buy it model 2023. But I do not know about the quality of the Hyundai hybrid and is the battery reliable? Now you use the car two years, what do you think?How many miles did you do?

[@sgrant9814]

This vehicle is a perfect example as to why every passenger car, cuv, suv, and light truck sold should be a hybrid. They will satisfy 99% of drivers and their needs. Bevs are nice but, imo, not ready for prime time given range anxiety, lack of charging infrastructure and mostly, price (as well, the amount of rare earth metals used, on avg, in a bev can be used to make 8-10 hybrids). Switching our vehicles to hybrid will aprox double avg fuel economy, reduce dependency on fossil fuel and reduce pollution. A no brainer.

[@PatrixBest]

They will satisfy their needs except for the desire to have a less expensive vehicle

[@imscott45]

Thanks professor!

[@brennancampbell1588]

Hybrids has it place for sure and I can now vouch for the newest plug-ins too if you can. Only EV I can recommend is Tesla because their own infrastructure is near perfect for traveling. If you can have solar and a Level 2 charger or 220V plug at home (Powerwall is a plus), then your home IS the infrastructure. Can't treat EVs the same way as ICE vehicles, it's different.

[@Strat09Retired]

I purchased the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited Nocturnal Black, I drove down to see my Daughter who lives in Ocoee, FL from Chili, NY it cost me one way $65.00 with a half a tank left. My wife wanted to upgrade her 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid SEL Portofino Grey to a 2022 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited Calypso Red, so I bought her one for her Anniversary present. Within seven weeks I upgraded to a new 2022 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited Nocturnal Black because of the upgrades they made over my 2021. We have owned five Hyundai's to date and are very happy with these vehicles, really impressive cars, that’s my opinion and we have no regrets.

[@KirkKreifels]

Thanks for sharing!

[@piperpilot26]

When I worked for a Porsche Audi dealership 18 years ago, I just discovered that the Audi A8 had a solar sunroof to help maintain the 12 volt battery during long cycles of not running. Example, when business execs leave their cars at airports for long periods of time that technology has been out for quite a bit now.

[@Tech-Kino2685]

At first I have to admit I wasn't a fan either of the grill , but after seeing it a bit more I realized I'm starting to like it a lot more and it makes the sonata look a bit more luxury along with the Chrome the Chrome is just the right amount it's not too much Chrome to where it looks blinged out and tacky

[@dboyq329]

The rims.....I just always hate Hyundai wheel choices! Otherwise, I actually like the unique styling. And great job K! Grea

[@CarlosHernandez-yy8ic]

I just got our 2022 Sonata Hybrid Ltd. It is our 4th one since it originally came out in 2011. They get better every time. Was able to sell our 2017 Sonata Hybrid at an $8,000 premium over book. Our only wish on all of them has been for the passenger seat to be able to go higher just like the drivers seat.

[@matty1053]

any issues?

[@Dondonden1234]

I'm just hoping, that with new battery and solar tech, Hyundai can update the battery to produce more mileage. 2 to 3 extra miles from the solar panel isn't bad but if they could get 10 to 15 extra, that would change the game considerably!

[@FranciscoGarcia-mc8gj]

Have the 2021 Blue model and it is great! Glad to see Hyundai didn't make any major changes to the Sonata for this year. Keep in mind that just like regular cars, mileage goes down in the winter. Noticed it starting to go down when it's in the 40s outside. But still way better than a conventional car. 2022 model in this video is beautiful. I love the red exterior!

[@billyjean2905]

I heard that current Hyundai, Kia hybrid system's very well executed. I drove 2010 Accent hybrid some years ago and it literally sucked. I swear nothing of the car was good except mpg but even that was not so impressive. Then I drove 2020 Niro and it was stunningly good. Normally, when I drive hybrids I feel something strange and bad but it felt very natural and comfortable. I'm so shocked that only 10 years made that much difference.

[@Jia1337]

With gasoline hitting $6 in CA, this Sonata is going to be waitlisted til late 2023.

[@markcoopers1930]

The look has definitely grown on me, grille and all. I kinda really like this. And 6 speed auto is nice. Also, kinda a weird point: but the orange wires here are really neat and organized. Some hybrids have their wire running and snaking around the engine bay just like a regular wiring harness.

[@MattMcIrvin]

I bought one of these and I loved it so much... until it got rear-ended by an F150 and has spent the past couple of months in the shop waiting for parts. Here's hoping it'll drive as well once they put it back together. When I braked, there was always that slightly grabby switchover from regenerative to disc brakes, and I'm wondering now if that contributed to the accident--the driver of the Ford might have expected gentler deceleration. Granted, that truck never should have been following so close.

[@sammydavis991]

Nice detailed review Kirk

[@jonahbert111]

It gets better than my 08 Prius @175k , but new, the Prius was probably pretty similar. I like the Prius hatchback, better to put in more folding bikes with. I can fit 3 bikes and 3 people.

[@syxepop]

Good Afternoon, Kirk! My comment was because I expected this Sonata Hybrid to use the T-1.6L offered in other Hybrid apps and not the NA-2.0L (the 1.6L PHEV doesn't achieve neither the power output nor the fuel compsumption of the HSD Primes it competes against). Its' output numbers are still below the (219hp) Camry HSD, but its' fuel compsumption is better (both Sonata and Camry have NA ICE's as component in their hybrids). Wonder if Hyundai still has their LIFETIME WARRANTY on their battery packs... 54* / 50 (even as Hyundai has been notorious for not getting EPA numbers IRL in many of their vehicles) is quite good considering the Sonata is larger than the Prius, yet achieve only a 2-4 MPG below it (and see that's COMPETITIVE against the Camry HSD). Oh, and Hyundai proves YOU DON'T NEED CVT's to achieve high fuel compsumption numbers, it can be done with a PLANETARY AUTO (just like Mazda proved on the Toyota Yaris Sedan and its' 6-speed auto). On Hyundai's large crossovers, I think they will retain one of the two FWD-based ones each brand has (Palisades / Santa Fe and Telluride / Sorento) as ICE'd ones and the other as a BEV for at least one more generation, so for the moment it won't replace both models in each brand. * don't forget in hybrids it's usually the CITY number that's higher, in regular ICE'd ones is the HIGHWAY one

[@tails300]

One thing I need to point out to you is that Toyota hybrid transmissions aren’t CVTs, and they’re very simplified units compared to traditional autos.

[@robertsparks7244]

Sonatas are good cars. The problem is when something goes wrong then the excuses come out and at Ray Skillman in Indy they say there could be a charge to check your concerns with a bumper to bumper warranty. So if you get one don't buy from Ray Skillman in Indiana. You may need a repair but they will do it when they want and they could charge you so the warranty is out the window.

[@ilovechristmas985]

The front grill is what I like! I spotted one when I was on the highway! It looks like a Red Lobster 🦞

[@CarringtonHollister]

Does Kia offer a Optima (K5) Hybrid

[@JT-fq2bl]

Unfortunately, no. They could've been making a killing in this car & fuel apocalypse with a K5 hybrid.

[@PNWeston]

Good work!

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

Excellent video krik

[@misaelramos83]

Is it a DCT or conventional automatic?

[@JC-hi6yi]

Well done. I don't know much about hybrids as my last purchase was a 2020 Ford F150 V-8 which I love. That said, I've got a 2014 Cadi XTS 4 which has low mileage and I've got an offer of over $25K...so I'm considering a hybrid and I like your review....It's going to help me make a decision on the Hyundai

[@MrWawer]

Great detail interview and nice footage :-) Personally I don’t understand the problem with driving CVT, I had manual all my life then bought Prius Prime and I love driving it because it is so smooth the worst thing to drive is automatic. eCVT is just different style of driving also if I want to drive more sporty I put PowerMode and B gear :-)

[@MrMightyZ]

I’ve driven a cvt for a couple of hours, I believe I could get used to it but I’m still suspicious of a CVT’s durability. Especially if it’s a non-Toyota CVT.

[@MrWawer]

@Jake Krause I guess regular CVT is probably pretty poor experience however I have only experienced Toyota’s eCVT which responds very well. Manual just gives you the most control and fun anyway. :)

[@tails300]

The Toyota hybrid transmissions aren’t really CVT in the general sense.

[@rslover65]

I generally despise CVT's. But bought a prius. It's not a belt driven CVT as many cars are, so it's quiet without the groaning of a typical cvt

[@raziel630]

how come a lot of reviewers don't know about the trunk button???.....good job

[@andrewheisler3842]

Would you get this, or the Prius limited?

[@KirkKreifels]

Prius typically hold their value better, and my wife is a Prius fan. BUT with expensive gas get whichever is available :)

[@Danzin_Danzibar]

I'm currently saving up for this model or the 2023 model. If everything goes as planned I should be able to get one early 2023 Wish me luck

[@douglashearne290]

I have 2014 .Is that a good year?

[@stephenwierzbicki4463]

Kirk: As a Long term review... Which Exterior Color Do You Believe Holds Up Better? Red, Blue, White, Black, Gray or Silver?

[@howtodowi]

This is my dream car, I was walking from my college and spotted one. I immediately fell in love with how it looks. When I get money I will buy it? Because I do love cars so much even if I didn't own one😅😅

[@donaldsteele8451]

What about Reliability?

[@vsrap71]

junkyard in 5 years

[@byronnasem4110]

@@vsrap71 False but oh well

[@chrisstanford5969]

Would that roof not be easier to break with hail and such ?

[@YzerWings]

What is the average full tank mileage? My 2012 camry hybrid (14gal tank) gets 500miles +/- 20 to 30 miles

[@arhamkhakwani5851]

My pick is the Camry. Nothing can beat the smoothness and refinement of the NA V6. Sonata and Accord are tied for second.

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

Agreed

[@naveenthemachine]

Agreed. But I’d get the XSE v6 instead 😀. Luxury features plus v6

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

@@naveenthemachine agreed

[@naveenthemachine]

@@chezzyperson3339 I bet next gen they will get the 2.4L turbo form the nx. Not too happy about that. They will quickly lose their performance edge they used to have. V6 Camrys were always quick sub 6 second times

[@JT-fq2bl]

Performance edge? Maybe against the Altima & Legacy. The Camry can keep up with the K5 (all season tires) with the 0-60mph time, but it with get eaten alive @ ¼ mile. The Sonata is the same, but will flat out mopped the Camry with summer tires. The Accord will mop the Carmy with almost Sonata-like performance. I don't no performance edge with the Camry until Toyota tighten up the transmission response.

[@ericdavies8405]

Quick question: if you were to run out of gas, is it the case that the solar panels in the roof would power the car, even if only for very short distances in spurts?

[@stevenleach6506]

No. The wattage output of those panels is trickle charge at best and wouldn't even move the car. However in ideal conditions the battery may have enough power to go a short distance. Dont qute me on that though as I don't know what the battery is designed to do beside help provide greater efficiency.

[@richie259]

I own this car; It doesn't allow you to just set it to EV mode and drive until the battery is drained. The car decides, based on the power demand and driving conditions, when to use EV and when to use gas. If you run out of gas, you are not likely to be able to operate the car at all. You might be able to pull out of a driveway, but if you ran out of gas on normal roads or highways you better pull over ASAP. The solar panel is cool, and while I'm parked at work all day it charges the battery by about 20% which helps with fuel efficiency later, but it is not enough to power the car. I have driven out of my driveway and to the main thoroughfare in my neighborhood entirely on EV, but once you start pushing 20-30 mph or approach any kind of hill/incline, the engine will turn on to assist.

[@robythomas4082]

Hybrid with an automatic? Is there going to be a hybrid with a legitimate manual?

[@vsrap71]

there was, the original honda insight

[@syxepop]

Actually a couple of Honda hybrids did sell with manuals: both the OG Insight and the sporty CR-Z, both 2-seaters.

[@robythomas4082]

@@vsrap71 with an actual manual transmission or a manual cvt?

[@syxepop]

@@robythomas4082 - I do believe in both the OG Insight (5-speed) and the CR-Z (6-speed) were true "row your own" manual with that clutch in the footwell.

[@angelomazzuca6244]

I have been looking into a purchase for over 1 year but in Arkansas none can be found! Also, my state penalizes hybrids and EV’s when applying for tags. 😢

[@xncman]

i have this model but yr 2020..35k miles...live in s fl...over the last 3 months the car has lost power and would not start..not even open the doors..after the 1st failure i had the car towed and found out i had to press the 12v restart and then press the key fob to the start button to restart the car...hyandai had another car there the same day mine was with same problem..it has happened twice the last several days and about 6 times in 3 months....and hyandai doesn't know whats wrong and so far cant fix it..they will not give me loaner..i am out 300 on a rental for the 1st failure the 1st time...they just say we can duplicate car and have a good wknd...so frustrated...

[@chang9984]

Does it support wireless android auto?

[@dizzydondizzydon4959]

It's wired in thr limited. Wireless in thr blue and sel Makes no sense, right?

[@poorsgrayofficial599]

Would you recommend it for uber driving? I have little monthly cost of living and i'm planning to work 12h a day for 6 days a week focusing only on paying the car asap. I'd highly appreciate your opinion. loved the car and the video. thanks in advance!

[@KirkKreifels]

It would be great for that. Test drive one to see how you like it

[@williamcahill2462]

I drive Uber with a 2021 Sonata Hybrid Limited, my wife does also with a 22 version of same car. 55 mpg is achievable once you learn how to engage the electric system as often as possible. A 12.5 gallon fill up gives me 625 miles of range. About 35% of customers express their appreciation for the car openly. Inside, and out the Limited version is a winner.

[@michaelk3797]

Did you try pressing the qi charging button before putting your phone on the wireless charger? See at 7:40 of the video. Love your reviews, big Asian automotive car guy here too.

[@KirkKreifels]

I pressed everything that looked like a button to me and no luck. Still could be user error.

[@cubanit084]

I have a 2019 Genesis G80 Ultimate, at least in my car there is an option in the instrument cluster settings to turn on/off the Qi wireless charger.

[@coltonlynden7058]

@@cubanit084 it’s the same with the sonata, you can find the options in the settings.

[@bigearl8687]

The mpg is all good , how big is the fuel tank? U can buy a suburban that gets 17 mpg, and you have 25 gallon fuel tank, you have 425 mile range, this car may just be 370 on a full tank...so which is better.....

[@richie259]

It's easily 580-620 on a full tank.

[@bigearl8687]

@@richie259 you referring to the truck with a 30 gallon fuel tank or the Hyundai.

[@richie259]

@@bigearl8687 The Sonata Hybrid. I have one, first full tank it said 587, but you can easily do more with high efficiency driving

[@georgeolson6588]

I hope someone can answer my question... I just bought an SEL. Driving in ECO mode around town, I can't get better than around 37 mpg. I am trying to do what people say, go easy on the gas, etc. Is there some trick to getting my vehicle up to 50 mpg like in this video?

[@KirkKreifels]

Do you have the Hybrid model? Also, if your'e making really short trips in your hybrid, your mileage won't be that great.

[@jo-anngotzon9334]

Were 72. And looking at the hundai hybred. We had 2 prius so far. We like the 48 mpg to 52 on the prius

[@hadespaganism2405]

This is a excellent car review 👌 and thank you

[@vadim9342]

Hey Kirk, I've recently read an article about the upcoming Lexus TX. They stated that it will be replacing the GX. What are your thoughts on that. Is it a rumor in your opinion or reality?

[@KirkKreifels]

GX isn't going anywhere. TX is an addition to the Lexus lineup

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

@@KirkKreifels agree

[@jxmar_]

I’d choose the Camry hybrid over the accord and sonata but this sonata is giving the accord a run for it’s money.

[@kimberlyx4060]

My 2015 Sonata Hybrid was a lemon. I don’t have money to give away. I ended up losing $6k. Replacing two transmissions within 50k was my end. I begged Hyundai to pay for the second trans but not labor. I always take very good care of everything on my cars. I have an old Toyota that’s from 2008 and it outlasted this Sonata. My final straw was Hyundai refused to take the car back. It constantly would out of nowhere decrease speeds while on the expressway and then have a hybrid alert. Hyundai wouldn’t pay for a new battery either. So yes- I won’t buy this car ever.

[@KirkKreifels]

Sorry to hear your experience!

[@randy2558]

The drl chrome strip running all the way to the A pillar is pretty ridiculous.

[@DanielLopez-os5ti]

The looks a sick, it looks like a James Bond car

[@jeffmorse645]

I'm trying to get an SEL at MSRP from my local dealer. They have exactly one in transit. Probably be a month or two before it gets here and their taking a waiting list since they don't charge above MSRP. The SEL is fine - it has the most important items for me. IMO the Limited isn't worth $5,600 more for the snazzier instrument cluster or bigger touchscreen or the useless solar roof.

[@eleanormassaro5195]

Can you get a panoroof instead of the solar roof as an option?

[@jeffmorse645]

@@eleanormassaro5195 Not on the hybrid.

[@tyeohno]

Fantastic review! Still not feeling the "catfish" face.

[@A-A-ron990]

Maybe a dogfish face is better 😂🤣

[@brianlee9233]

Say what you want about the catfish face, but I love it hands down, and it's way better than the disgusting and horrendous looking '10-'14 MY.

[@OmegaAbyss]

Bought a 2021 Sonata Hybrid SEL before the market went nuts. A great daily and comfortable road tripper that I affectionately call the "white whale"

[@dude-yg9ez]

Camry and rav4 needs to switch to this setup, single motor.

[@tails300]

No they don’t, this is actual more complicated than Toyota’s setup.

[@dude-yg9ez]

@@tails300 really? Didn't think so since toyota is 2 motors plus a third called a "e-cvt".

[@tails300]

@@dude-yg9ez Toyotas hybrid transmissions are more like differentials. There are no belts, no pulleys like a traditional CVT, and no clutches or bands like a regular automatic. It’s just a simple set of gears connecting the motors and engine. On the AWD drive models there’s a third motor on the back wheels, unlike Hyundai who still uses a mechanical AWD system on their hybrids.

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

Camry is the best in class .❤. Accord second best.

[@byronnasem4110]

Not really ❤️

[@KirkKreifels]

This. I love them all haha.

[@darshandani1]

The calculation of the money saved is not accurate entirely. You need to also consider the higher mileage ( which is at least 1.5 times the non-hybrid as per internet ) due to the solar power in addition to the calculation that you did.

[@LiveLNXgaming]

I love the look. compared to the other hybrids in this size and range its going to hold its value a ling time. it has a bit of a BMW look to it and I love the sharp eyes. the solar roof is also a gimmick and best case will save you $60 a year. not at all worth loosing the large sun roof for which is the biggest downside to me.

[@stevenbullock9276]

Great review. Thanks

[@KirkKreifels]

Thanks for watching!

[@jdm1039]

The money you save in fuel will be given to the dealer with their current upcharges above MSRP.

[@KirkKreifels]

Only if you're willing to pay that upcharge. I wouldn't ever buy over MSRP unless I know the car will appreciate massively or hold its value

[@jdm1039]

@@KirkKreifels All true. I wouldn't either and since 99.99% of cars will not appreciate in value I'm out.

[@simonbijja1922]

No offense but after spending close to 38k, you are not getting a panoramic sunroof ? Compromising that for solar panel for just 2 extra miles a day !!!! I think that’s a major con in this.

[@richie259]

Not everyone likes sunroofs. I've had so many sunroof leaks I've sworn them off forever.

[@filetofish7688]

The new one has the roof back now

[@CarringtonHollister]

Only the Sonata Hybrid uses those “cookie wheels”

[@brianlee9233]

I agree, this is the only car that uses those cool Cookie Cutter wheels, in other news, the 2010-2014 Sonata Hybrid looks disgusting. (I saw like more than one of them and I couldn't help but cringe at it).

[@Faisal-actualtruth]

Hyundai need to change their emblem. Others will come out with solar panels soon.

[@alengreen589]

overall it´s not bad.

[@chinabluewho]

When they lost the solar roof I lost interest.

[@clashwithmoi8926]

it's such a good car, sucks that the front looks horrible

[@eleanormassaro5195]

I think the grill on the hybrid looks better than the gas models

[@japerelectronics2568]

I wanted to like this car but I hated it. I am 5'10 and my head hits the roof at the visors. From the top of the dashboard down its gorgeous. From the top of that dash board up it has a tiny little box windshield and the feel of an 80's compact. Bought a camry.

[@stevenweiss2148]

push button strike 1 glare from aluminum strike2 to much pianoplastic strike3

[@lilpeppa117G]

Wow nice #feet subscribed 😭

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

Sonata is so ugly and no suprise its called the cat fish 😂

[@stea2494]

The front of this car doesn’t age well. Its an eye sore

[@oscarcha100]

Man, I can’t look at this car. It’s just so ugly……

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

Agreed .its the cat fish

[@naveenthemachine]

Me either. I’m all for bold looks but this is just too much.

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

@@naveenthemachine agreed

[@syxepop]

That's why I penned #elSiluro (that was MY idea). But Hyundai keep giving reviewers THE WRONG COLOR (best by a lot is their "Metallic Mustard Yellow", worst is the "Black Black on Black" and I have seen many of those colors "in the wild").

[@ekgcanadianenthusiast9961]

@@syxepop if something is ugly as this then no color can fix this lol

[@dwayneIs371]

Ugliest car in the class. Ewww.