Hyundai reveals new Sonata Hybrid; a solar roof panel and bunch of new features

Hyundai has taken the wraps off the new Sonata Hybrid, which comes with a solar roof panel. It also brings the brand’s new ASC (Active Shift Control) transmission. With it, the Korean automaker has kept its promise to provide a hybrid version of Sonata.

As for the Hybrid powertrain, there is a combination of a new 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and an electric motor. The petrol engine is capable of returning a maximum power of 150 hp along with the peak torque of 188 Nm. The electric motor, on the other hand, can provide a maximum power of 51 hp and the peak torque is 205 Nm. The combination offers a combined power output of 192 hp. Honda claims to deliver a fuel economy of 20 kmpl.

The power is sent to the wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission, which is equipped with the Active Shift Control software. The software aligns the engine and transmission speeds and as a result, the shift times are decreased by 30 percent. As per the manufacturer's words, the durability, acceleration, and fuel efficiency are improved owing to the presence of the ASC.

The car features a solar roof panel that helps to charge the hybrid system’s battery so that the driving range can be increased and assures continuous charging of the battery. As per the manufacturer, on charging the vehicle for six hours daily, the solar panel will add a travel distance of around 1300 km per year.

A wide range of new technologies is furnished to the coaster. The most notable feature is the Digital Key that uses a compatible smartphone's NFC (Near Field Communication) system to lock or unlock the car. Moreover, it also allows to activate the alarm or start the engine. As per the local division, the new Sonata Hybrid is “under view” for the Australian market.