New Hybrid Cars for 2011
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
Having tinkered with electric and hybrid vehicles for more than 15 years, Hyundai has finally brought one of its models to the U.S. Sitting behind the wheel of the Sonata hybrid is much like sitting in a conventional midsize sedan. The car has 205 horsepower, giving it more punch than the earlier crop of hybrids. It also has the latest lithium-ion-polymer battery and an instrument cluster than can help a careful driver run on electric power in heavy traffic or even at speeds up to 62 m.p.h. for short distances, modifications that can push its fuel economy right up against the 37/41 m.p.g. rating it gets from the EPA. Hyundai has also refined the exterior design to separate the car from the conventional Sonata. No price has been released yet, but estimates suggest it will sell for $25,000 to $30,000.