2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

[GasSavers_Scott]

Just saw a short review of the Sonata Hybrid, 24k and EV mode doesn't kick off till 63 mph. This beats Prius' 33 mph EV mode cutoff. I like the low price, I cant believe the Chevy Volt coming in at 41k.

[smalldisplacementfreak]

Looks like it'll be my next car!

[trollbait]

The EV cut off point on a non-plugin hybrid is just a bragging point. Going faster in EV just means using more energy from the battery, which will recharge from gasoline. That's assuming it is practical to keep it in EV while in traffic. Fuel economy rating is much more important.

A practiced driver can get the Prius to EV coast at highway speeds.

The Volt price is disappointing. However, a Cruze with the same features runs about $24K. Is $16k too much to convert it into a hybrid with decent EV capabilities?

[Jay2TheRescue]

The Cruze ECO model looks promising. I may even buy one myself. I'm looking to get a new DD within the next year.

[theholycow]

According to http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...rid/index.html it will be very difficult to keep it in EV-only mode. Sounds like fun to drive though, lots of stuff to keep me busy trying to optimize my fuel economy...won't be so fun for most people.

The article implies that it's got a traditional planetary automatic (not a sequential or dual-clutch) with a computer-controlled clutch instead of a torque converter. Interesting.

[smalldisplacementfreak]

Originally Posted by Jay2TheRescue

The Cruze ECO model looks promising. I may even buy one myself. I'm looking to get a new DD within the next year.

In total agreement. Had a chance to test drive a Cruze at a GM sponsored event. The Cruze was exceptional in all aspects! I was thoroughly impressed with the overall drive, quality, and topping it a a small displacement (1.4l) TURBO charged engine. Waiting on more details with the ECO model to come out and may look into renting a Cruze for a week to really test it out.

-SDF

[Jay2TheRescue]

1.4L motor... That's smaller than the one in my motorcycle!

[bowtieguy]

hyundia continues to impress w/ their entire line.

funny, i flipped thru a Consumer's Report mag today finding no change in their view that toyota is still the "most reliable" manufacturer top to bottom. give me a break!