The Good
The 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid offers excellent fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers seeking savings. Its comfortable ride and spacious interior provide a pleasant driving experience. While not a performance car, it delivers adequate power for daily driving. Its sleek design and a host of available tech features add emotional appeal, offering a modern and sophisticated feel, all at a competitive price point.
The Bad
Some owners have reported issues with the hybrid system's reliability, specifically the battery and related components. The regenerative braking system can feel somewhat inconsistent. The interior materials, while decent, may not feel as premium as some competitors. Check for any error codes related to the hybrid system during inspection.
2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor.
- Horsepower: Total system output of 193 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy:
- EPA estimated at 39 mpg city / 43 mpg highway / 41 mpg combined. (SE trim)
- EPA estimated at 38 mpg city / 40 mpg highway / 39 mpg combined. (Limited trim)
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 8.0 - 8.5 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- SE: Standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera, a 5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system. Cloth upholstery.
- Limited: Adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, a larger 8-inch touchscreen, navigation system, premium audio system, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. Power driver seat with memory settings.
- Plug-In Hybrid: (Later availability) Similar features to SE/Limited but with a larger battery pack for extended electric-only range (around 27 miles).
- Battery: Lithium-polymer battery pack.
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission.
2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata hybrid |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Door Sedan |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | South Korea |
| Manufacturing City | ASAN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1586.21 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 147.07 cm |
| Overall Length | 485.39 cm |
| Overall Width | 186.44 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 280.42 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0-L |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $26,000 USD |
| Invoice Price | $24,724 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $825 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Have?
Long-term reliability concerns mainly revolve around the longevity of the hybrid battery pack. Depending on driving habits and climate, battery life can vary significantly. Replacing the battery pack can be a substantial expense. It is important to have the hybrid system inspected by a qualified technician before purchase and to maintain it according to Hyundai's recommendations. Some owners have also noted minor electrical glitches and issues with the infotainment system over time. Routine maintenance and timely repairs are essential to mitigate these potential issues and ensure long-term reliability.
How long will the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features available (primarily on the Limited trim) include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. Optional features include a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning. Safety features include standard antilock brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, and side curtain airbags. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) are generally positive, with the 2016 Sonata earning a Top Safety Pick+ award. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) ratings are also typically high, with a 5-star overall safety rating. These ratings reflect the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in various crash scenarios. The Blue Link system also adds an extra layer of security with features like automatic collision notification and stolen vehicle recovery.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Prices and Market Value
2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Cost of Ownership
2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Fuel Efficiency
2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Safety Rating
IIHS
2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Compare to Other Sedan?
Alternatives to consider are the Toyota Camry Hybrid for superior reliability and the Honda Accord Hybrid for a more engaging driving experience. The Ford Fusion Hybrid offers a similar blend of features and efficiency, but its reliability record is also a consideration. If reliability is a top priority, the Camry Hybrid is a better choice. If you're seeking the most value for your money and are willing to accept slightly higher risk of hybrid system issues, the Sonata Hybrid is worth considering. For a more engaging driving experience, the Accord Hybrid is a great option.
Ranks #1004 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1004 | 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid a Good Sedan?
hyundaiowner on November 3, 2020
Love This CarI love this car so much and the Limited model is so nice. I would highly recommend purchasing this car, especially if you are looking for fuel efficiency.
JES on June 6, 2020
SUPER MILAGE 40+. SLEEK STYLINGNice riding and comfortable car, it is a great value for the money. 60,000 mile warranty, bumper to bumper. Very spacous family care with large trunk for hauling.
Grace B. on June 2, 2020
Very reliable, and easy to operateThis car is exactly what I need right now To get me back and forth to work and school. Glad I made the purchase. Well worth the money
Bev Gainey on May 21, 2020
Best car I've ever ownedThis car is very good on gas. I feel like I can ride forever.I'm good to it and it is good to me.If I ever buy another car, it will definitely be another hybrid.
Willy T on March 25, 2020
Very reliable car. I have owned it for 4 years.This car has been great for our family. We have owned it for 4 years with no issues. If you are looking for a smaller reliable car with great gas mileage this is it!
DPat on January 22, 2020
Low operating costRoomy inside holding five adults and cheap to operate. Hyundai has the best warranty and stands by it. All in all a great car for the money.
DodgeR44 on December 4, 2019
2016 Sonata Hybrid problemsWe bought the 2016 hybrid model in Nov 2015. Until this year, it has been very good...safety features are nice, great ride, good mileage. This year, the hybrid system has shut down on 2 occasions. First time was a safety switch malfunction, this time they're still researching the problem. It's good we bought the extended warranty. The dealership has been great and this maybe a one off instance but the root cause needs to be found. That's the only reason I would hesitate to recommend it; the question of the hybrid reliability. When the hybrid shuts down, you have a few minutes to pull over; engines die, it doesn't switch to gas mode. Second time, I pulled over, shut off engine and waited a few minutes. Started it, both gas and hybrid engine kicked in but check engine light remained on. Need to be confident in the vehicle.
Sonata Hybrid on March 19, 2019
Extremely comfortableExceeded all expectations, love the Limited Edition with the Ultimate Package options. It is extremely quiet and comfortable and easily yields 49mpg. Quality build, fit and finish.
Brian on November 28, 2018
Great carI have owned for 2 years now. Been reliable and great fuel mileage. Lots of room and good acceleration. Good price and great warranty for the hybrid battery.
summit64 on August 21, 2018
So quiet and smoothRECENTLY test drove a Sonata Hybrid and was very impressed with the base model ride quality and interior comfort . The back seat is one of the roomiest I have ever sat in and I'm 6'1".
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.