Sonata PHEV named one of top 10 engines

Hyundai Motor’s Sonata plug-in-hybrid electric vehicle

By Lee Hyo-sik

Hyundai Motor’s Sonata plug-in-hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) was named as having one of the world’s top 10 engines by a U.S. auto magazine, becoming the first plug-in hybrid power train to enter the list, Korea’s largest automaker said Friday.

Ward’s AutoWorld Magazine, which publishes the annual list of Ward’s 10 Best Engines, said the 2016 Sonata PHEV offers the efficiency of an alternative power train with a unique aerodynamic exterior design, best-in-class total interior volume, premium features and advanced safety technologies.

“For Hyundai Motor’s first entry into the plug-in hybrid segment, the company’s engineers did an impeccable job blending fuel efficiency with refinement and daily usability,” said Drew Winter, editor-in-chief at Ward’s AutoWorld. “Transitions between all-electric and hybrid modes are completely seamless, something that drivers will undoubtedly appreciate on long journeys, and the six-speed automatic transmission gives drivers a greater sense of connection compared with other hybrids in the segment.”

The vehicle is powered by Hyundai Motor’s 2.0-liter Nu four-cylinder GDI engine. Unlike other hybrids in the segment, the Sonata plug-in-hybrid utilizes a six-speed automatic transmission with a 50 kilowatt electric motor in place of the standard torque converter, according to the magazine.

Hyundai Motor welcomed the news, saying it has become a global leader in advanced power trains.

“The Sonata Plug-in Hybrid provides the power delivery of a conventional gasoline engine, perfect for long trips, with the additional benefit of an environmentally friendly all-electric range for commuting,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president of corporate and product planning at Hyundai Motor America. “We see significant potential with the Sonata PHEV as being one of the best zero-carbon solutions. This award provides a recognized platform to highlight the technological and environmental leadership of the entire Sonata family.”

According to Hyundai, Ward’s 10 Best Engines is the world’s most prestigious list that defines the industry’s outstanding power trains. Since the list began in 1995, Hyundai Motor has been honored five times: the Tau V-8 in 2009 (4.6-liter), 2010 (4.6-liter) and 2011 (5.0-liter); the Gamma I-4 in 2012; and the hydrogen fuel-cell power train in 2015.

The 2016 awards ceremony will take place at a banquet during the North American International Auto Show on Jan. 13 in Detroit.