27 Nov
Blog

2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Review: Efficient and Stylish

Angled front view of the 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Platinum in a meadow (passenger side).

2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid

RRP $ 23,550.00

"A lot of technology and a breathtaking design make the Elantra Hybrid a market leader."

advantages

  • Surprisingly spacious

  • Lots of technology

  • Stylistic look

  • 54 mpg combined

  • Refined driving dynamics

disadvantage

  • Tire noise

  • Expensive upgrade over non-hybrid

At one point, the Toyota Prius was the only hybrid you could get if you were looking for really good fuel economy. That is no longer the case, of course, because fuel-efficient hybrids come in all shapes and sizes these days. If you look at the EPA's charts, you'll find that the Prius is no longer the king of hybrids as it once was. No, the crown is now on the hood of the Hyundai Ioniq Blue. Hyundai uses its electrified knowledge and brings it into the 2021 Elantra Hybrid.

Sure, the Elantra Hybrid isn't as efficient as the Ioniq or the Prius, but it makes up for it with styling that you won't mind feeling, some impressive tech features, and an interior that makes you actually want to spend your time sometimes Have cake and eat it too. Just like any halfway decent cake from a reputable bakery, you're going to be spending a decent amount of money getting something this sweet.

To get on a 2021 Elantra Hybrid, you'll need to spend $ 24,575 with a mandatory target fee of $ 1,025. That's a hefty upgrade over the regular Elantra, which costs $ 20,675. Our test vehicle was a Limited model that retailed at $ 29,125.

Design and interior

Mainstream automakers can't strike a happy medium with hybrids. Some, like the Toyota Prius and Hyundai Ioniq, have weird designs in the name of aerodynamics, while others like the Honda Insight and Toyota Corolla Hybrid are focused on safety. Bucking the trend of needing a slippery design, the Elantra Hybrid says no too boring for something that feels upscale and distinctive.

A black 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid in a meadow with trees in the background. Joel Patel / Digital Trends

As with many other Hyundais, the wow factor of the Elantra Hybrid starts at the very beginning. The edgy sound of the compact sedan features a unique grille with an intricate design that looks like it was completed by Spider-Man, and headlights protruding far back. The doors have angular lines that blend together to look like a modern work of art. However, none of these traits are as noteworthy as the stern. It's as angular as the triangular head of a venomous snake with taillights that are just as menacing as the reptile's eyes.

The Elantra Hybrid goes against the trend of needing a slippery design and being boring for something that feels upscale.

The interior is just as attractive as high-tech. The digital instrument cluster and the central touchscreen are connected around the driver. The dashboard and center console layout follows a similar curve, making the controls easier for the driver to reach.

While the overall design of the Elantra Hybrid is upscale and most of the materials are comfortable, there is one important thing that will make you pause. The instrument cluster and touchscreen look fine, but there's a large blank space to the left of the driver with a random design. It's an odd item in a package that looks as good as the Elantra Hybrid.

As we all expect from Hyundai, the Elantra Hybrid is packed with features. Leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a sunroof, ambient interior lighting and a lumbar support for the driver's seat are standard in the limited equipment we tested. There's no denying that these are nice features, but Hyundai should have spent a little more time cushioning the underside of the front seats. On a long ride, your bum will go numb and you will start wiggling around to find extra padding. Fortunately, the cabin is spacious with plenty of space for the rear passengers and a useful 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space in the trunk.

Technology, infotainment and driver assistance

The main reason for an upgrade to the Limited equipment compared to the entry-level blue model is the additional technology. Hyundai has an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality with the blue equipment. When you upgrade to the Limited, you get a 10.25 "touchscreen and 10.25" digital instrument, but you need to connect your smartphone to the larger touchscreen with a cable. The Limited also adds a Bose audio system with eight speakers, a wireless charger, navigation and Hyundai's nifty digital key. We find it strange that Hyundai should combine its upscale features with wired smartphone connectivity, but switching to limited trim is worth it despite the hassle.

It's thoroughly modern in every way, but luckily not in any other way.

Infotainment system in the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid 2021.Joel Patel / Digital Trends

Hyundai's infotainment system is now considered to be one of the most intuitive on the market. The layout is simple, the menus are logical, and the graphics are precise, if not the nicest ever to be found in a car. The digital instrument cluster is a nice touch and displays information in an appealing way, but offers little customization options. Choosing a different drive mode results in cool animation, but with this type of digital real estate it would be nice to see a little more.

Thankfully, Hyundai's physical buttons and dials have been retained in the Elantra Hybrid. Aside from losing compatibility with wireless smartphones, the larger touchscreen also loses a physical vote button, but that omission is barely noticeable. Forget odd circular gear levers, this hybrid sedan has a traditional gear lever that is much easier to use. It's thoroughly modern in every way, but luckily not in any other way.

Every Elantra Hybrid is equipped with all important safety features as standard. The blue equipment is standard with front collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic warning, pedestrian detection, safe exit warning and a driver attention monitor. The limited equipment offers adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors, Highway Driving Assist as well as cyclist and intersection detection. All functions work smoothly and without any problems.

Experience at the wheel

Close-up of the 2021 grille of the Hyundai Elantra from above. Joel Patel / Digital Trends

The power for the Elantra Hybrid comes from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that alone has an output of 104 hp. The engine is complemented by a 43 hp electric motor for a combined output of 139 hp. That's a little less than the regular Elantra horsepower of 147 hp, but the electric motor helps make the Elantra Hybrid feel appropriate, but not exactly bubbly. The Toyota Corolla Hybrid has a 1.8-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors with a total of 121 hp, while the Honda Insight, thanks to its 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and the electric motor, is the most powerful of the group with 151 hp.

Compared to options like the Toyota Corolla Hybrid and the Honda Insight, the Elantra Hybrid has a unique feature: a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The transmission accelerates the sedan in a similar way to a non-hybrid and reacts better to gear changes than transmissions without fixed gears. Additionally, the Elantra Hybrid doesn't have the same powered drone that plague other hybrids.

With polished driving characteristics and a dampened cabin, the Elantra Hybrid gives a sophisticated feeling.

With 200 pounds of extra weight compared to the regular Elantra and less horsepower, the Elantra Hybrid isn't built for sportiness. Compared to the non-hybrid model, the Elantra hybrid has a rear multi-link suspension that is supposed to compensate for the ride. Without testing the two sedans one after the other, it's hard to see how the rides differ. The Elantra Hybrid's handling is a bit stiff in normal use, but nowhere near uncomfortable.There isn't much body tilt, but with easy steering and highly efficient tires that don't inspire much confidence, it's not what you're going to be looking for winding roads for pleasure. What you get is a fairly comfortable ride and easy-to-drive dynamic for your commute to work.

Rear of the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid 2021 with forest in the background. Joel Patel / Digital Trends

One of the main advantages of a hybrid powertrain is how quiet the cabin is. Apart from the tires, which can be loud depending on the road surface, the Elantra Hybrid remains quiet. Combine that with the sedan's refined driveability and the result is a grown-up hybrid that feels more refined than other options in the segment.

Gas mileage and safety

Side profile of the 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid in a meadow with a forest in the background.Joel Patel / Digital Trends

The hybrid segment is divided into two options: ultra-efficient options and more mainstream options. The former includes options like the Toyota Prius and Hyunida Ioniq, while the latter includes the Honda Insight, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, and Honda Accord. Since the vehicles in the first group do not go quite so well with the Elantra Hybrid, the vehicles in the second group are its competitors. And the Elantra Hybrid has the best consumption values ​​in this segment.

The blue base has combined fuel economy numbers of up to 54 mpg (53 mpg city, 56 mpg highway) while the Limited carries a combined rating of 50 mpg (49 mpg city, 52 mpg highway). These numbers top the mainstream hybrid options. The Insight, Corolla Hybrid, Camry Hybrid, and Sonata Hybrid Blue get up to 52 mpg combined. The Accord Hybrid is the least efficient with a combined rating of 48 mpg.

A note on the fuel consumption figures for the Elantra Hybrid. While incredibly impressive, they'll be really hard to replicate in the real world. In our week in the car we averaged around 43 mpg together. That's still a great number, but in real-life driving conditions, most of the Elantra Hybrid's competitors will come closer to their official EPA numbers.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has not yet subjected the Elantra Hybrid to a crash test in 2021. Without any major differences to the regular Elantra, we assume that the evaluation will be carried over to the electrified model. The Elantra 2021 was named the “Top Safety Pick” and received the grade “Good” in all six crash tests carried out by the institute. The headlight ratings should also be adopted, which means that the values ​​range from “Acceptable” to “Good”. In testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Elantra Hybrid received an overall safety rating of five stars in 2021.

Close up of 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid driver's side taillight. Joel Patel / Digital Trends

Hyundai backs the Elantra Hybrid with a five-year 60,000-mile base warranty and a 10-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The hybrid components have the same 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty as the powertrain. The regular warranty is above average for the class, while the hybrid drive is average. The Corolla Hybrid comes with an 8-year guarantee of 100,000 miles for the hybrid components and a 10-year guarantee of 150,000 miles for the hybrid battery. The Insight comes with an eight-year guarantee of 100,000 miles on the hybrid components.

How DT would configure this car

Since the Elantra Hybrid is an expensive upgrade over the regular Elantra and the blue trim is the most efficient option, we think the blue trim is the best choice. It might not come with the big screens or the fancy features, but it is packed full of goodies. Heated front seats, six audio speakers, two-zone climate control, keyless entry, wireless smartphone compatibility and Hyundai's SmartSense security package come as standard.

Our opinion

If you like the design of the Prius or Ioniq, these options give you better fuel economy and the added versatility of a hatchback. Of the other main competitors, the Elantra Hybrid has a sharper design, better EPA numbers, and loads of tech. If a compact hybrid sedan is on your radar, the Elantra Hybrid is one of the best choices.

The Toyota Corolla Hybrid has a better hybrid battery guarantee and is cheaper than the Elantra Hybrid, but does not have the same technical features, spacious cabin or load space. The Corolla Hybrid doesn't feel as upscale as the Elantra Hybrid, nor does it have the same high-end design.

The Honda Insight has a 151-horsepower drivetrain and feels peppier than the Elantra Hybrid, but has a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that roars at higher speeds. With up to 15 cubic meters of cargo space, the Insight has a larger trunk than the Elantra Hybrid. Honda's compact hybrid doesn't offer nearly the same amount of tech features and a far safer design.

Should you get one?

Yes sir. The Hyundai Elantra Hybrid may not compete with the Toyota Prius or the Hyundai Ioniq, but it is the best of the rest.

Editor's recommendations



16 Nov
Blog

2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid Review: 7 Seats and Great MPG

Front driver's side from an angle of the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid in a meadow.

2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid

RRP $ 33,590.00

"It's not even a close comparison – the Sorento Hybrid is one of the best mid-size SUVs."

advantages

  • Tons of technology

  • Noble design

  • Compact car MPG

  • Spacious first and second row

  • Doesn't feel slow

disadvantage

  • Tight third row

  • Model 2022 has more functions

The three-row midsize SUV segment is one that automakers are slow to electrify. It makes sense – these hulking SUVs tend to have boxy designs that aren't efficient at first. Finding a way to reduce fuel consumption without sacrificing all that space is a huge challenge – so there may be few options to choose from.

With the brand new 2021 Sorento Hybrid, Kia has found a way to make this work. The Sorento name has been around since 2002, but this is the first time you'll find hybrid drive in an SUV. This powertrain not only gives the Sorento its own place in the Kia range, but also in the overall segment. If you are looking for a midsize hybrid SUV, go straight to a Kia dealer to test the Sorento Hybrid before anything else.

The entry-level S starts at $ 34,760, including the target fee of $ 1,170. The EX-Trim we tested starts at $ 37,760. Our tester was painted in Runaway Red Paint, which costs $ 445, bringing the price of our tester to $ 38,205.

Design and interior

The last Sorento had an old-fashioned design – not exactly hideous, but awkward from some angles. In that regard, the new Sorento Hybrid is a massive improvement. It doesn't have the same street presence as the larger Telluride, but it still has its own kind of American boast. Not many midsize SUVs and even fewer hybrids look cool, but that's exactly what the Sorento Hybrid does.

Front end close-up of the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid in a meadow. Joel Patel / Digital Trends

Kia's Tigernose grille gives the Sorento Hybrid a familiar design compared to the automaker's other SUVs, such as the Niro, Seltos and Telluride. Compared to the regular Sorento, the Sorento Hybrid doesn't look drastically different. From our point of view, that is a good thing. The only noticeable difference between the two is the glossier trim on the hybrid.

Not many midsize SUVs and even fewer hybrids look cool, but that's exactly what the Sorento Hybrid does.

The interior design of the Sorento Hybrid is just as beautiful as its exterior with a stylish look that feels just as classy as the exterior. The center console rests in the middle of the vertically aligned air vents and the toggle switches for the HVAC temperature control and the heated seats make the cabin look like the cockpit of an airplane – this is also fully functional. The biggest downside is the select-operated gear shifter, which seems like a good thing on paper but not in the real world.

One of the main advantages of the Sorento Hybrid over other hybrids is that it can accommodate up to seven people. Only a few midsize SUVs can claim the combination of hybrid drive and seating for the whole family. Thanks to clever packaging, the Sorento Hybrid offers just as much cargo space as the Sorento. Unfortunately, it's not as spacious as its competitors. Behind the third row there is 12.6 cubic meters of cargo space. Folding down the rear seats gives 45 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Sorento Hybrid can hold a maximum of 75.5 cubic feet of cargo.

Technology, infotainment and driver assistance

The main disadvantage of the Sorento Hybrid is its infotainment system. Kia does not fit the Sorento Hybrid with the same available 10.25-inch touchscreen of the regular model. Instead, you get a standard 8-inch device for the full range of products. It's not a bad touchscreen, but the extra space that is available in a regular Sorento leads to envy. It's like looking at your neighbor's backyard and then realizing that yours doesn't quite fit. For patient people, Kia made things the same for 2022.

It's not the fanciest list of features, but there's something reassuring about a car with easy-to-use technology.

Close-up of the infotainment system in the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid showing fuel consumption. Joel Patel / Digital Trends

The size of the touchscreen might not impress, but its features will. The EX equipment we tested came with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, satellite radio, a 4.2-inch display in the instrument cluster, eight USB ports, a wireless charging pad and six audio speakers. It's not the most famous list of features, but there is quite a bit to be said about a car that doesn't choke on technology.

The touchscreen's graphics aren't as sharp or as colorful as those of the larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, but they're still really good. It's also nice to be able to use logically placed buttons and knobs. Someone could get into this car and become familiar with it within 10 minutes – this is not the case with many new vehicles.

Kia equips the Sorento Hybrid with its Drive Wise suite of advanced safety functions. The suite includes collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, pedestrian recognition, rear cross traffic warning, exit warning and rear parking sensors. The EX equipment adds adaptive cruise control, cyclist detection, intersection assistant and front parking sensors.

Experience at the wheel

The Sorento Hybrid is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbo engine paired with an electric motor and a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery. The combined power is 227 hp, while a traditional six-speed automatic transmission handles the shifting. It's a departure from the norm as most other hybrids use a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). If there's a downside to the Sorento Hybrid's powertrain, front-wheel drive is the only configuration available.

Compared to the competitors from Ford and Toyota, the Sorento Hybrid no longer has any power. The Ford Explorer Hybrid has a 3.3 liter V6 engine and an electric motor for a combined 318 hp. Toyota's Highlander Hybrid, on the other hand, comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors that produce 243 hp. Against that crowd, the Sorento Hybrid sounds like it could use a little more punch, but the SUV feels very powerful. There's a bit of a lag off the line, but it's still peppy, just about a second away from the regular Sorento's regular 2.5-liter, four-cylinder turbo engine in a sprint to 60 mph. Overtaking on the autobahn, which is usually a test of patience with a hybrid, is uneventful.

The six-speed automatic transmission is gentler than options with a CVT like the Highlander, but it's not exactly trouble-free. During our week with the SUV, we noticed that it jerked a few times when switching between reverse gear and drive. Downshifts can be slow if you're trying to speed them up using the paddles on the steering wheel, but that's to be expected on a powertrain where fuel economy is paramount.

Of the few hybrid mid-range SUVs on the market, the Sorento Hybrid is the most efficient of the bunch.

Side profile of the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid from the passenger side in a meadow. Joel Patel / Digital Trends

While Kia's driving modes usually result in a noticeable change, the Sorento Hybrid's Comfort, Smart, and Sport modes don't make radical changes to the SUV's performance. So it makes a lot of sense to keep it in eco mode most of the time. Additionally, Kia's Eco mode doesn't suppress the responsiveness of the accelerator pedal, so it feels more like a normal driving mode. The eco mode also matches the compliant driving behavior and easy steering of the Sorento Hybrid for a relaxed driving experience.

Gas mileage and safety

Of the few three-row midsize SUVs on the market with hybrid drive, the Sorento Hybrid is the most efficient of the bunch. The hybrid is rated to get up to 37 mpg combined (39 mpg city, 35 mpg highway). The best the Toyota Highlander Hybrid can get is 36 mpg combined, while the Ford Explorer Hybrid has a paltry 28 mpg combined rating. The Sorento Hybrid is so efficient that it is almost on par with smaller hybrids like the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Blue, which have 38 mpg combined ratings.

Engine compartment of the Kia Sorento Hybrid 2021.Joel Patel / Digital Trends

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has not yet subjected the Sorento Hybrid 2021 to crash tests. However, the regular Sorento received the “Top Safety Pick” rating after receiving a “Good” rating in all six crash tests – a “Superior” rating for its front crash prevention technology and headlights, which ranged from “Bad” to “Good” " are sufficient. In testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Sorento Hybrid received an overall safety rating of four stars in 2021.

Kia supports the Sorento Hybrid with a 5-year basic warranty of 60,000 miles and a 10-year warranty for the powertrain of 100,000 miles. The warranty exceeds that offered by Toyota and Ford, which includes a three-year base warranty of 36,000 miles and a five-year powertrain warranty of 60,000 miles.

How DT would configure this car

Skip the $ 3,000 EX trim that doesn't justify the price. The standard Sorento Hybrid has an extensive list of safety functions, two-zone climate control, six audio speakers, wireless smartphone compatibility, synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats and an 8-inch touchscreen, making it well-equipped for most drivers.

Our opinion

Best-in-class fuel economy is just one characteristic that makes the Sorento Hybrid such an impressive vehicle. It also comes with nifty tech features, a relatively spacious cargo area, a peppy drivetrain, and a long warranty. The breathtaking design of the Sorento Hybrid cannot be overlooked either. It's not even a close comparison – the Sorento Hybrid is one of the best mid-size SUVs on offer.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is available with a larger 12.3 inch touchscreen, although its graphics and menu layout look dated, it can hit up to 36 mpg combined, it has up to 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space, it has 243 horsepower, and it can pull up to 3,500 pounds. The Highlander Hybrid isn't as stylish as the Sorento Hybrid, but it is available with all-wheel drive.

If fuel economy is what you're looking for, the Ford Explorer Hybrid likely won't fit the bill. It's rated at up to 28 mpg combined, which is way behind the Sorento Hybrid's number. On the other hand, its drive train delivers up to 318 hp, well above the Sorento Hybrid. The Explorer Hybrid can also pull the most cargo with a valuation of up to 5,000 pounds. When it comes to cargo space, the Explorer Hybrid has the most space with up to 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Ford offers the Explorer Hybrid with rear-wheel and all-wheel drive.

Should you get one?

Yes sir. The 2022 model adds more technology and all-wheel drive available, but the 2021 model is still worth buying.

Editor's recommendations



09 Nov
Blog

2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid Review: 7 Seats and Great MPG

Front driver's side from an angle of the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid in a meadow.

2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid

RRP $ 33,590.00

"It's not even a close comparison – the Sorento Hybrid is one of the best mid-size SUVs."

advantages

  • Tons of technology

  • Noble design

  • Compact car MPG

  • Spacious first and second row

  • Doesn't feel slow

disadvantage

  • Tight third row

  • Model 2022 has more functions

The three-row mid-size SUV segment is one that automakers are slow to electrify. It makes sense – these hulking SUVs tend to have boxy designs that aren't efficient at first. Finding a way to reduce fuel consumption without sacrificing all that space is a huge challenge – so there may be few options to choose from.

With the brand new 2021 Sorento Hybrid, Kia found a way to make this work. The Sorento name has been around since 2002, but this is the first time you'll find hybrid drive in an SUV. This powertrain not only gives the Sorento its own place in the Kia range, but also in the overall segment. If you are looking for a midsize hybrid SUV, go straight to a Kia dealer to test the Sorento Hybrid before anything else.

Entry-level S starts at $ 34,760, including the target fee of $ 1,170. The EX-Trim we tested starts at $ 37,760. Our tester was painted in Runaway Red Paint, which costs $ 445, which brings our tester's price to $ 38,205.

Design and interior

The last Sorento had an old-fashioned design – not exactly hideous, but awkward from some angles. In that regard, the new Sorento Hybrid is a massive improvement. It doesn't have the same street presence as the larger Telluride, but it still has its own kind of American boast. Not many midsize SUVs and even fewer hybrids look cool, but that's exactly what the Sorento Hybrid does.

Front end close-up of the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid in a meadow. Joel Patel / Digital Trends

Kia's Tigernose grille gives the Sorento Hybrid a familiar look compared to the automaker's other SUVs, such as the Niro, Seltos and Telluride. Compared to the regular Sorento, the Sorento Hybrid doesn't look drastically different. From our point of view that is a good thing. The only noticeable difference between the two is the glossier trim on the hybrid.

Not many midsize SUVs and even fewer hybrids look cool, but that's exactly what the Sorento Hybrid does.

The interior design of the Sorento Hybrid is just as beautiful as its exterior with a stylish look that feels just as classy as the exterior. The center console rests in the middle of the vertically aligned air vents and the toggle switches for the HVAC temperature control and seat heating make the cabin look like the cockpit of an airplane – this is also fully functional. The biggest downside is the selector-operated gear shifter, which seems like a good thing on paper but not in the real world.

One of the main advantages of the Sorento Hybrid over other hybrids is that it can accommodate up to seven people. Only a few midsize SUVs can claim the combination of hybrid drive and seating for the whole family. Thanks to clever packaging, the Sorento Hybrid offers just as much cargo space as the Sorento. Unfortunately, it's not as spacious as its competitors. Behind the third row there is 12.6 cubic meters of cargo space. Folding down the rear seats gives 45 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Sorento Hybrid can hold a maximum of 75.5 cubic feet of cargo.

Technology, infotainment and driver assistance

The main disadvantage of the Sorento Hybrid is its infotainment system. Kia doesn't fit the Sorento Hybrid with the same available 10.25-inch touchscreen of the regular model. Instead, you get a standard 8-inch device for the full range of products. It's not a bad touchscreen, but the extra space that is available in a regular Sorento leads to envy. It's like looking at your neighbor's garden and then realizing that yours doesn't quite fit. For patient people, Kia made things the same for 2022.

It's not the fanciest list of features, but there's something reassuring about a car with easy-to-use technology.

Close-up of the infotainment system in the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid showing fuel consumption. Joel Patel / Digital Trends

The size of the touchscreen might not impress, but its features will. The EX equipment we tested came with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, satellite radio, a 4.2-inch display in the instrument cluster, eight USB ports, a wireless charging pad and six audio speakers. It's not the most famous list of features, but there is quite a bit to be said about a car that doesn't choke on technology.

The touchscreen's graphics aren't as sharp or as colorful as those of the larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, but they're still really good. It's also nice to be able to use logically placed buttons and knobs. Someone could get into this car and become familiar with it within 10 minutes – this is not the case with many new vehicles.

Kia equips the Sorento Hybrid with its Drive Wise suite of advanced safety functions. The suite includes collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, pedestrian recognition, rear cross traffic warning, exit warning and rear parking sensors. The EX equipment adds adaptive cruise control, cyclist detection, intersection assistant and front parking sensors.

Experience at the wheel

The Sorento Hybrid is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbo engine paired with an electric motor and a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery. The combined power is 227 horsepower, while a traditional six-speed automatic transmission handles the shifting. It's a departure from the norm as most other hybrids use a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). If there's a downside to the Sorento Hybrid's powertrain, front-wheel drive is the only configuration available.

Compared to the competitors from Ford and Toyota, the Sorento Hybrid no longer has any power. The Ford Explorer Hybrid has a 3.3 liter V6 engine and an electric motor for a combined 318 hp. Toyota's Highlander Hybrid, on the other hand, comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors that produce 243 hp. Against that crowd, the Sorento Hybrid sounds like it could use a little more punch, but the SUV feels very powerful. There's a bit of a lag off the line, but it's still peppy, just about a second away from the regular Sorento's regular 2.5-liter, four-cylinder turbo engine in a sprint to 60 mph. Overtaking on the autobahn, which is usually a test of patience with a hybrid, is uneventful.

The six-speed automatic transmission is gentler than options with a CVT like the Highlander, but it's not exactly trouble-free. During our week with the SUV, we noticed that it jerked a few times when switching between reverse gear and drive. Downshifts can be slow if you're trying to speed them up using the paddles on the steering wheel, but that's to be expected on a powertrain where fuel economy is paramount.

Of the few hybrid mid-range SUVs on the market, the Sorento Hybrid is the most efficient of the bunch.

Side profile of the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid from the passenger side in a meadow. Joel Patel / Digital Trends

While Kia's driving modes usually result in a noticeable change, the Sorento Hybrid's Comfort, Smart, and Sport modes don't make radical changes to the SUV's performance. So it makes a lot of sense to keep it in eco mode most of the time. Additionally, Kia's Eco mode doesn't suppress the responsiveness of the accelerator pedal, so it feels more like a normal driving mode. The eco mode also matches the compliant driving behavior and easy steering of the Sorento Hybrid for a relaxed driving experience.

Gas mileage and safety

Of the few three-row midsize SUVs on the market with hybrid drive, the Sorento Hybrid is the most efficient of the bunch. The hybrid is rated to get up to 37 mpg combined (39 mpg city, 35 mpg highway). The best the Toyota Highlander Hybrid can get is 36 mpg combined, while the Ford Explorer Hybrid has a paltry 28 mpg combined rating. The Sorento Hybrid is so efficient that it is almost on par with smaller hybrids like the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Blue, which have 38 mpg combined ratings.

Engine compartment of the Kia Sorento Hybrid 2021.Joel Patel / Digital Trends

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has not yet subjected the Sorento Hybrid 2021 to crash tests. However, the regular Sorento received the “Top Safety Pick” rating after receiving a “Good” rating in all six crash tests – a “Superior” rating for its front crash prevention technology and headlights, which ranged from “Bad” to “Good” " are sufficient. In testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Sorento Hybrid received an overall safety rating of four stars in 2021.

Kia supports the Sorento Hybrid with a 5-year basic warranty of 60,000 miles and a 10-year warranty for the powertrain of 100,000 miles. The warranty exceeds that offered by Toyota and Ford, which includes a three-year base warranty of 36,000 miles and a five-year powertrain warranty of 60,000 miles.

How DT would configure this car

Skip the $ 3,000 EX trim that doesn't justify the price. The standard Sorento Hybrid has an extensive list of safety functions, a two-zone automatic climate control, six audio speakers, wireless smartphone compatibility, synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats and an 8-inch touchscreen, making it well-equipped for most drivers.

Our opinion

Best-in-class fuel economy is just one characteristic that makes the Sorento Hybrid such an impressive vehicle. It also comes with nifty tech features, a relatively spacious cargo area, a peppy drivetrain, and a long warranty. The breathtaking design of the Sorento Hybrid cannot be overlooked either. It's not even a close comparison – the Sorento Hybrid is one of the best mid-size SUVs on offer.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is available with a larger 12.3 inch touchscreen, although its graphics and menu layout look dated, it can hit up to 36 mpg combined, it has up to 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space, it has 243 horsepower, and it can pull up to 3,500 pounds. The Highlander Hybrid isn't as stylish as the Sorento Hybrid, but it is available with all-wheel drive.

If you're looking for fuel economy, the Ford Explorer Hybrid probably won't fit the bill. It's rated at up to 28 mpg combined, which is way below the Sorento Hybrid's number. On the other hand, its powertrain delivers up to 318 hp, well above the Sorento Hybrid. The Explorer Hybrid can also pull the most cargo with a valuation of up to 5,000 pounds. When it comes to cargo space, the Explorer Hybrid has the most space with up to 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Ford offers the Explorer Hybrid with rear-wheel and all-wheel drive.

Should you get one?

Yes sir. The 2022 model adds more technology and all-wheel drive available, but the 2021 model is still worth buying.

Editor's recommendations



29 Oct
Blog

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD: Extra Power and Efficiency

Exterior of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited.

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD

RRP $ 37,350.00

"The Tucson Hybrid sets the bar for efficiency and performance paired with technology."

advantages

  • Unique look

  • Luxurious cabin

  • Seriously efficient

  • Impressive technology

  • Charges

disadvantage

  • Intrusive touch controls

  • Wireless smartphone compatibility only with standard screen

Hyundai designers have made a name for themselves as some of the best in the business over the past few years. Fancy designs will only get you so far, however.

It's good that the completely redesigned 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is so much more than just a pretty face. There is a lot of substance underneath. So much so that the Tucson Hybrid sets the high water mark in its class. In the pursuit of improved fuel economy, the Tucson Hybrid also comes with a healthy performance boost over the regular Tucson.

The compact hybrid scene is still relatively new. There are few competitors, and all of them match or improve the Tucson Hybrid's fuel economy. There is the Ford Escape Hybrid, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and the Honda CR-V Hybrid. Not exactly a crowded market, but there are some heavyweights. Seeing the Tucson Hybrid hold up against just such an established group speaks volumes for how far the model has come compared to the previous generation.

The base 2022 Tucson Hybrid starts at $ 30,235 with the required target fee of $ 1,185. Our test car with exceptionally soft carpeting was the top Tucson Hybrid Limited, which is priced at $ 38,730.

Interior and exterior design

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD Front

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

Exterior of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited.

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD taillights

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD rear end

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

With so many SUVs on the streets these days, designers are struggling to find ways to distinguish their models from others. Others may obviously have problems, but Hyundai designers are thriving, producing hits at an impressive rate. When we say the Tucson Hybrid looks different than anything else on the market, we mean it. Identical twins, the Tucson and Santa Cruz even look like weird ducklings in the Hyundai family.

Usually something that looks this good requires some kind of compromise on the inside.

It starts with the weird grille, which has a jewel-like finish and is part of what Hyundai calls a "Parametric Dynamics" design. The daytime running lights of the SUV are integrated directly into the radiator grille and provide a fascinating view at night. The rest of the package is just as impressive, with enough wedges and chiseled lines to cosplay as a 190s sports car.

Usually something that looks this good requires some kind of compromise on the inside. Fortunately, there are no compromises to be found. In contrast to the plug-in hybrid powertrain, which eats its way into the cargo space, the hybrid fits the regular Tucson. There is 38.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and a total of 74.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. Rear passengers get 41.3 inches of rear legroom, more space than any direct competitor for the Tucson Hybrid.

View of the interior of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited 2022 from the driver's seat.

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

View of the interior of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited 2022 from the driver's seat.

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

View of the interior of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited 2022 from the passenger seat.

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

Views of the interior and rear seats of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited 2022.

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

The Tucson Hybrid's interior design may not generate the same shock and awe as the exterior, but it feels especially upscale for a compact hybrid at this price point. Our limited test equipment included leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, an electric tailgate and ventilated front seats. The natural rounding of the air nozzles and the course of the center console appear modern and yet remain functional. Materials also feel classy as others in the segment tend to use hard plastics that look and feel unsightly. A couple of glossy black panels are a fingerprint magnet, but that's the biggest problem we could find.

Technology, infotainment and driver assistance

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited infotainment system.Joel Patel / Digital Trends

Typically, automakers tend to reserve their best features for higher trim levels. That's not exactly the case with the Tucson Hybrid. The standard 8-inch touchscreen offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, satellite radio, two USB ports on the front and back, and Bluetooth. The Limited equipment we tested included a 10.25-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital instrument, wireless device charging, navigation, and a Bose audio system. Oddly enough, the larger touchscreen loses compatibility with wireless smartphones for old-fashioned wired connectivity. That's an annoying decision given all of the other high-end features that the larger touchscreen is paired with.

While the 10.25-inch touchscreen is one of the reasons for upgrading to a higher level of equipment, the 10.25-inch digital instrument feels like it could be more useful.

The larger touchscreen offers crisp graphics and simple menus, but you lose rotary knobs and traditional buttons for functions like adjusting the volume and adjusting the radio. All buttons on the center console of the SUV are touch-sensitive and picky. The volume buttons have to be pressed several times, for example, in order to sensibly increase or decrease the system volume of the audio system. The smooth look of the center console is appealing, but we prefer a classic switchgear.

Inside view of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited 2022.Joel Patel / Digital Trends

While the 10.25-inch touchscreen is one of the reasons for upgrading to a higher level of equipment, the 10.25-inch digital instrument feels like it could be more useful. For example, it lacks the customization that Volkswagen offers in its digital cockpit instrument cluster. The available Bose audio system sounds good, but I still fondly remember the old Harman Kardon system. However, if you're more interested in tuning things than pumping the cabin with noise, Hyundai offers a unique "nature sounds" setting to play quieter sounds like "rainy day", "warm fireplace" and "busy forest".

Hyundai offers its SmartSense suite with advanced security features for many of its vehicles, although the suite's features differ depending on the vehicle. The standard safety features of the Tucson Hybrid include front collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic warning. Also standard is the safe exit warning, which warns you if you open the door and if a vehicle is approaching from behind.

Higher equipment variants, such as the Limited we tested, are equipped with parking sensors, a parking camera with all-round visibility and a remote-controlled intelligent parking assistant. While the system doesn't work nearly as smoothly as it does in the displays, it can be helpful in making sure you leave enough room in tight spaces.

Experience at the wheel

The Tucson Hybrid comes with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a 44.2 kW electric motor for a combined output of 226 hp. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, with all-wheel drive as standard. This value makes the Tucson Hybrid one of the most powerful hybrids in its class. The CR-V Hybrid (212 PS), the RAV4 Hybrid (219 PS) and the Escape Hybrid (200 PS) all fall behind slightly. It even beats the regular Tucson gasoline engine by 39 horses.

Look at what's under the hood of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD.Joel Patel / Digital Trends

Unsurprisingly, it also delivers more straight-line oomph than the regular Tucson. The hybrid powertrain lets most of its muscles play off the line, but still has a lot of pulling power on the autobahn. Unlike other hybrids, the Tucson Hybrid's powertrain uses a six-speed automatic transmission instead of a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). It delivers well-timed shifts, which can be a problem with CVTs, and even allows manual shifting with paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, although they feel out of place.

Whether you're driving around town or taking the final leg of a road trip, the Tucson Hybrid offers a comfortable, smooth ride. The sophisticated driving style of the SUV is reminiscent of some of the past classes. The hybrid powertrain ensures that it stays quiet inside, but a sharp step on the gas pedal brings a lot of engine noise into the cabin.

Take the Tucson Hybrid around a curve and it will surprise you with crisp steering and confident handling. Unlike other hybrids in the class, the Tucson Hybrid doesn't sway wildly around corners, making it one of the more athletic options in the class.

Gas mileage and safety

Exterior of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited.Joel Patel / Digital Trends

The Tucson Hybrid falls behind the competition in terms of fuel economy, but is still insanely efficient. The entry-level blue is rated at 38 mpg combined (38 mpg city, 38 mpg highway) while the rest of the lineup is rated at 37 mpg combined (37 mpg city, 36 mpg highway). The Escape Hybrid leads the segment with an overall rating of 41 mpg, while the RAV4 Hybrid follows just behind with an overall rating of 40 mpg.

In tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2022 Tucson received a “Top Safety Pick +” rating. The SUV received the grade “Good” and the top grade “Superior” for its front crash prevention technology in all crash tests. The headlight ratings range from “acceptable” to “good”. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not yet crash tested the 2022 Tucson.

Hyundai offers a 5-year base warranty of 60,000 miles and a 10-year powertrain warranty of 100,000 miles. A 10-year guarantee with 100,000 miles applies to the hybrid components of the SUV. These are above average for the guarantees for the segment. Honda, Toyota and Ford all offer their hybrids with a three-year base warranty of 36,000 miles and a five-year warranty of 60,000 miles. Toyota and Honda cover the battery components of their hybrid vehicles with a 10-year guarantee of 150,000 miles, depending on the purchase condition.

How DT would configure this car

Since the Tucson Hybrid has a slightly lower fuel consumption than its competitors and comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the smaller touchscreen, we think the basic blue is the best choice. It's also not about sparing on features, as it comes with heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, four USB ports, Hyundai's SmartSense safety features and an electrically adjustable driver's seat.

Our opinion

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid isn't the most fuel-efficient compact SUV on the market, but it's still one of the best options. Not only is it more enjoyable to drive and more sophisticated than other options, but it also offers more power and more impressive technology. It's the gold standard for the segment.

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Ford Escape Hybrid, and Honda CR-V Hybrid all match or have better fuel economy values ​​than the Tucson Hybrid. But they all offer smaller cargo areas, less legroom in the rear, smaller touchscreens and only wired smartphone compatibility. The Escape Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid are slightly cheaper than the Tucson Hybrid, but have interior materials that match their lower prices.

Unless you're looking for a luxury hybrid from Lexus, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lincoln or Volvo, the Tucson Hybrid is the best choice in the affordable compact class.

Should you get one?

Yes sir. The Tucson Hybrid is the best of its kind.

Editor's recommendations



07 Oct
Blog

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD: Extra Power and Efficiency

Exterior of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited.

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD

RRP $ 37,350.00

"The Tucson Hybrid sets the bar for efficiency and performance paired with technology."

advantages

  • Unique look

  • Luxurious cabin

  • Seriously efficient

  • Impressive technology

  • Charges

disadvantage

  • Intrusive touch controls

  • Wireless smartphone compatibility only with standard screen

Hyundai designers have made a name for themselves as some of the best in the business over the past few years. Fancy designs will only get you so far, however.

It's good that the completely redesigned 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is so much more than just a pretty face. There is a lot of substance underneath. So much so that the Tucson Hybrid sets the high water mark in its class. In the pursuit of improved fuel economy, the Tucson Hybrid also comes with a healthy performance boost over the regular Tucson.

The compact hybrid scene is still relatively new. There are few competitors, and all of them match or improve the Tucson Hybrid's fuel economy. There is the Ford Escape Hybrid, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and the Honda CR-V Hybrid. Not exactly a crowded market, but there are some heavyweights. Seeing the Tucson Hybrid hold up against just such an established group speaks volumes for how far the model has come compared to the previous generation.

The base 2022 Tucson Hybrid starts at $ 30,235 with the required target fee of $ 1,185. Our test car with exceptionally soft carpeting was the top Tucson Hybrid Limited, which is priced at $ 38,730.

Interior and exterior design

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD Front

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

Exterior of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited.

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD taillights

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD rear end

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

With so many SUVs on the streets these days, designers are struggling to find ways to distinguish their models from others. Others may obviously have problems, but Hyundai designers are thriving, producing hits at an impressive rate. When we say the Tucson Hybrid looks different than anything else on the market, we mean it. Identical twins, the Tucson and Santa Cruz even look like weird ducklings in the Hyundai family.

Usually something that looks this good requires some kind of compromise on the inside.

It starts with the weird grille, which has a jewel-like finish and is part of what Hyundai calls a "Parametric Dynamics" design. The daytime running lights of the SUV are integrated directly into the radiator grille and provide a fascinating view at night. The rest of the package is just as impressive, with enough wedges and chiseled lines to cosplay as a 190s sports car.

Usually something that looks this good requires some kind of compromise on the inside. Fortunately, there are no compromises to be found. In contrast to the plug-in hybrid powertrain, which eats its way into the cargo space, the hybrid fits the regular Tucson. There is 38.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and a total of 74.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. Rear passengers get 41.3 inches of rear legroom, more space than any direct competitor for the Tucson Hybrid.

View of the interior of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited 2022 from the driver's seat.

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

View of the interior of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited 2022 from the driver's seat.

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

View of the interior of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited 2022 from the passenger seat.

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

Views of the interior and rear seats of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited 2022.

Joel Patel / Digital Trends

The Tucson Hybrid's interior design may not generate the same shock and awe as the exterior, but it feels especially upscale for a compact hybrid at this price point. Our limited test equipment included leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, an electric tailgate and ventilated front seats. The natural rounding of the air nozzles and the course of the center console appear modern and yet remain functional. Materials also feel classy as others in the segment tend to use hard plastics that look and feel unsightly. A couple of glossy black panels are a fingerprint magnet, but that's the biggest problem we could find.

Technology, infotainment and driver assistance

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited infotainment system.Joel Patel / Digital Trends

Typically, automakers tend to reserve their best features for higher trim levels. That's not exactly the case with the Tucson Hybrid. The standard 8-inch touchscreen offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, satellite radio, two USB ports on the front and back, and Bluetooth. The Limited equipment we tested included a 10.25-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital instrument, wireless device charging, navigation, and a Bose audio system. Oddly enough, the larger touchscreen loses compatibility with wireless smartphones for old-fashioned wired connectivity. That's an annoying decision given all of the other high-end features that the larger touchscreen is paired with.

While the 10.25-inch touchscreen is one of the reasons for upgrading to a higher level of equipment, the 10.25-inch digital instrument feels like it could be more useful.

The larger touchscreen offers crisp graphics and simple menus, but you lose rotary knobs and traditional buttons for functions like adjusting the volume and adjusting the radio. All buttons on the center console of the SUV are touch-sensitive and picky. The volume buttons have to be pressed several times, for example, in order to sensibly increase or decrease the system volume of the audio system. The smooth look of the center console is appealing, but we prefer a classic switchgear.

Inside view of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited 2022.Joel Patel / Digital Trends

While the 10.25-inch touchscreen is one of the reasons for upgrading to a higher level of equipment, the 10.25-inch digital instrument feels like it could be more useful. For example, it lacks the customization that Volkswagen offers in its digital cockpit instrument cluster. The available Bose audio system sounds good, but I still fondly remember the old Harman Kardon system. However, if you're more interested in tuning things than pumping the cabin with noise, Hyundai offers a unique "nature sounds" setting to play quieter sounds like "rainy day", "warm fireplace" and "busy forest".

Hyundai offers its SmartSense suite with advanced security features for many of its vehicles, although the suite's features differ depending on the vehicle. The standard safety features of the Tucson Hybrid include front collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic warning. Also standard is the safe exit warning, which warns you if you open the door and if a vehicle is approaching from behind.

Higher equipment variants, such as the Limited we tested, are equipped with parking sensors, a parking camera with all-round visibility and a remote-controlled intelligent parking assistant. While the system doesn't work nearly as smoothly as it does in the displays, it can be helpful in making sure you leave enough room in tight spaces.

Experience at the wheel

The Tucson Hybrid comes with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a 44.2 kW electric motor for a combined output of 226 hp. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, with all-wheel drive as standard. This value makes the Tucson Hybrid one of the most powerful hybrids in its class. The CR-V Hybrid (212 PS), the RAV4 Hybrid (219 PS) and the Escape Hybrid (200 PS) all fall behind slightly. It even beats the regular Tucson gasoline engine by 39 horses.

Look at what's under the hood of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD.Joel Patel / Digital Trends

Unsurprisingly, it also delivers more straight-line oomph than the regular Tucson. The hybrid powertrain lets most of its muscles play off the line, but still has a lot of pulling power on the autobahn. Unlike other hybrids, the Tucson Hybrid's powertrain uses a six-speed automatic transmission instead of a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). It delivers well-timed shifts, which can be a problem with CVTs, and even allows manual shifting with paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, although they feel out of place.

Whether you're driving around town or taking the final leg of a road trip, the Tucson Hybrid offers a comfortable, smooth ride. The sophisticated driving style of the SUV is reminiscent of some of the past classes. The hybrid powertrain ensures that it stays quiet inside, but a sharp step on the gas pedal brings a lot of engine noise into the cabin.

Take the Tucson Hybrid around a curve and it will surprise you with crisp steering and confident handling. Unlike other hybrids in the class, the Tucson Hybrid doesn't sway wildly around corners, making it one of the more athletic options in the class.

Gas mileage and safety

Exterior of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Limited.Joel Patel / Digital Trends

The Tucson Hybrid falls behind the competition in terms of fuel economy, but is still insanely efficient. The entry-level blue is rated at 38 mpg combined (38 mpg city, 38 mpg highway) while the rest of the lineup is rated at 37 mpg combined (37 mpg city, 36 mpg highway). The Escape Hybrid leads the segment with an overall rating of 41 mpg, while the RAV4 Hybrid follows just behind with an overall rating of 40 mpg.

In tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2022 Tucson received a “Top Safety Pick +” rating. The SUV received the grade “Good” and the top grade “Superior” for its front crash prevention technology in all crash tests. The headlight ratings range from “acceptable” to “good”. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not yet crash tested the 2022 Tucson.

Hyundai offers a 5-year base warranty of 60,000 miles and a 10-year powertrain warranty of 100,000 miles. A 10-year guarantee with 100,000 miles applies to the hybrid components of the SUV. These are above average for the guarantees for the segment. Honda, Toyota and Ford all offer their hybrids with a three-year base warranty of 36,000 miles and a five-year warranty of 60,000 miles. Toyota and Honda cover the battery components of their hybrid vehicles with a 10-year guarantee of 150,000 miles, depending on the purchase condition.

How DT would configure this car

Since the Tucson Hybrid has a slightly lower fuel consumption than its competitors and comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the smaller touchscreen, we think the basic blue is the best choice. It's also not about sparing on features, as it comes with heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, four USB ports, Hyundai's SmartSense safety features and an electrically adjustable driver's seat.

Our opinion

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid isn't the most fuel-efficient compact SUV on the market, but it is one of the best options nonetheless. Not only is it more enjoyable to drive and more sophisticated than other options, but it also has more power and more impressive technology. It's the gold standard for the segment.

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Ford Escape Hybrid, and Honda CR-V Hybrid all match or have better fuel economy values ​​than the Tucson Hybrid. But they all offer smaller cargo areas, less legroom in the rear, smaller touchscreens and only wired smartphone compatibility. The Escape Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid are slightly cheaper than the Tucson Hybrid, but have interior materials that match their lower prices.

Unless you want to go upstream with a luxury hybrid from Lexus, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lincoln or Volvo, the Tucson Hybrid is your best bet in the affordable compact class.

Should you get one?

Yes sir. The Tucson Hybrid is the best of its kind.

Editor's recommendations



19 Mar
Blog

Skagen Jorn Hybrid HR Review: Nearly A Winning Combination

Skagen Jorn Hybrid hr review wrist up

Jorn Hybrid Smartwatch HR

“The Skagen Jorn Hybrid HR combines watch-like looks with more tech features, including a heart rate monitor, for a better connected experience. However, it's often too complex on its own and hasn't cracked some of the basics either. "

  • The screen adjustment is excellent

  • Two sizes and different color options available

  • Two weeks of battery life with moderate use

  • Unstable connectivity

  • Often too complex for your own good

The Skagen Jorn Hybrid HR is a new generation of hybrid smartwatches. When hybrid smartwatches first hit the market, they bridged the gap between a full touchscreen smartwatch and a traditional watch. They were smaller, thinner, and designed like a normal watch rather than a technology.

Smartwatches are now more compact, more powerful and better designed than ever before. Because of the outstanding importance of the Apple Watch, they are also more easily accepted as wristwatches. So where are hybrid smartwatches? The Skagen Jorn Hybrid HR is the answer. It uses Fossil's latest hybrid platform, which emphasizes the technical side more than ever, moving closer to a full smartwatch and moving further away from a traditional watch. I've been wearing it for a few weeks now to see if the increasing technology makes it worth buying.

design

The Fossil Q Crewmaster was launched in 2016 and remains a great looking hybrid smartwatch because of the flashy colors. It shares a design with an established and popular non-intelligent Fossil watch. It has character, weight, and welcome watch-like features, including a rotating chronograph bezel and raised indexes. The technical side was secondary, but functional, and I wore it a lot.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Now, five years later, the Skagen Jorn HR is a step further than the simplicity of the Q Crewmaster, but still a step further than Skagen's Falster 3 and other touchscreen smartwatches. In the center of the dial is a screen under two mechanical hands. However, it is a monochrome e-ink screen rather than a full-color touchscreen. It shows three complications (although the layout can be adjusted), but it doesn't sit flush against the bezel, which means you know it's a screen when you look at the face. The glass over the dial is flat and leads into an angled edge, then down to a metal case.

The Danish brand is known for its simple, minimalist design. My test model is black with a black strap and a yellow flash on the otherwise dark hands and dial. The case has a size of 42 mm and a modest size. However, if it's still too big for your liking, there is a 38mm version too. I have a 6.5 inch wrist and the 38mm Skagen Jorn is way too petite while the 42mm version is just right.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

On the side of the case there are three buttons that each control the watch's navigation system. They are easy to find and squeeze, but they don't have an elevated feel for movement. It's all attached to a really nice looking textured rubber strap which is one of the design highlights of the Jorn. It's not the longest strap out there, however, and there are only five holes left when it's on my wrist. The 38mm Jorn strap is tailored for much smaller wrists.

While the screen is minimalist, it ruins the illusion that this is not a smartwatch.

I struggled to really connect with the design of the Skagen Jorn. The minimalism borders on boredom, which is not supported by the completely black color scheme, but mainly by the screen. If not viewed directly, it will catch the light and ripples can be seen on the screen, ruining the illusion that this is a "watch" and not a smartwatch. The flat glass is also a let down and adds to the fundamental nature of watch design. Double tapping the glass activates a backlight. I would have liked to have it turned on when I lift my wrist too.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

If you compare it directly to the Q Crewmaster 2016, you really see the design differences. From the curved glass to the soft-touch buttons, it feels like a far higher quality product that leans towards a watch. The Skagen Jorn's screen means it's a piece of technology and didn't grab me in the same way. If I wanted a piece of wearable technology I'd buy a full touchscreen smartwatch, not a hybrid.

Screen adjustments

Does that mean I didn't warm up at all at Skagen Jorn HR? No, as the hybrid platform has a very interesting customization feature that allows you to completely change the look and layout of the e-ink screen. This really helped make the Jorn HR my own and reduced the overly technical feel a bit. The complications can be changed or eliminated entirely as needed. Skagen offers a selection of alternative background designs in black or white. You can also choose a photo from your gallery that you want to use.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

I've used the Oppo Find X3 Pro with the Skagen Jorn, and some of its "microscope" macro shots worked very well in the background. A macro shot of some metal satisfied the watch freak in me as the monochrome screen gave it a very weathered, almost marble-like look. Removing the complications gave him a real visual boost. It's easy to customize the screen in the Skagen app.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

This personalization is obviously lacking in hybrid smartwatches without screens and is a key benefit for the new hybrid platform from Fossil. After days of experimenting to get just the right look, the watch took on a new identity when I found it. What is interesting, however, is that I preferred the simpler, cleaner, and less technical look I had chosen to a face with digital complications.

Features and activity tracking

Appreciation of the design will always be subjective, but what about the new functionality? Do you remember the Pebble Smartwatch? It's a bit like that because the e-ink screen isn't "instantaneous" like a touchscreen and there is a light tap or two before it reacts to your actions. Everything is only controlled via the three buttons on the side and is a bit too complicated for your own good.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The Skagen Jorn HR can track a small selection of general workouts and even has a heart rate monitor on the back. There is automatic exercise tracking that wasn't very reliable. So how do you choose a workout in the app? It is good that you can configure the training mode for one of the buttons, otherwise it will be a multi-button operation, made even longer by the slight pauses caused by the screen refresh rate.

This is not a smartwatch for the fitness enthusiast.

Once it starts, I like the way the hands line up and count the first minute of activity, and the screens provide information about heart rate and calories burned. Hence, it's obviously much more comprehensive than a screenless hybrid smartwatch. Except that it's nowhere near as informative as Google Fit or Apple Health.

The number of steps was slightly overestimated compared to my Apple Watch, but the heart rate sensor stayed constant. I don't find the watch comfortable enough to wear overnight, but if you do it will track sleep. The watch is waterproof to 3ATM, but not suitable for swimming. The fitness data can be synchronized with Google Fit. The Skagen Jorn is a decent training and activity partner, but not for the very keen or dedicated athlete.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Notifications arrive on the watch, you can view daily calendar appointments and control your music from the watch. Notifications can be read to some extent, and hands move out of the way to make this easier. However, there is no option for interaction. It took a while to get used to the operating system in general, especially a touchscreen system, as many buttons have to be pressed to navigate the menus. It feels a little dated, but once you get the hang of it it's almost quick enough not to be irritating.

App and battery

The Skagen Jorn requires the Skagen hybrid app to connect to your phone. Don't make the mistake of using Fossil's Hybrid Smartwatch app as it won't work. Annoyingly, it doesn't always work with the Skagen app either. I found the connection to the watch unreliable. I tried to refuse a consistent connection on multiple phones.

I also found that the range of the connection was pretty short, and if I simply moved from one room to another the watch would be disconnected. Worse, it often required manual reconnection rather than doing it automatically. These issues are likely software-related issues and an update may fix them. However, this doesn't stop them from making the owner experience frustrating.

It's a shame, because the app is attractive and very easy to use. It's easy to customize the watch face and buttons, as large, easy-to-use screen settings are activated with just a tap. Step count, sleep time, active minutes and heart rate are clearly displayed. There is a challenge mode where you can work on fitness goals with friends. I also like the ease of choosing which apps to send notifications and the speed at which changes to the watch are synced.

With minimal use, it's realistic to get two weeks of battery life – but tracking sleep hits hard.

Skagen expects the battery to last for two weeks, but that depends on how you use it. If you don't track exercise or sleep, this is nearly achievable as the watch is barely losing 10% per day. Add a workout plus sleep tracking each day and usage can drop to around 10 days or less. During my mixed usage, I charged it on the 12th day. It's a quick charger and it takes a little over an hour to fully charge. However, the proprietary magnetic disk is different from the one that comes with other Skagen smartwatches.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

While the battery life is better than a touchscreen smartwatch with Wear OS software installed or the Apple Watch, it doesn't have the six months or more seen with mild hybrid watches from Casio or Alpina. Therefore, the Skagen Jorn HR has to keep up with feature-rich touchscreen smartwatches like the Huawei Watch GT2 Pro or the Amazfit GTR 2. This is a tough question because of the better usability with a touchscreen model.

Price and availability

The Skagen Hybrid Jorn HR is priced at $ 195 regardless of the size or combination of strap and case you choose. The black model shown here is complemented by a gray version with a steel mesh strap and a steel version with a brown leather strap, while the 38 mm models in gold come with a gold mesh strap or a black leather strap. They are available directly from Skagen's online store or from other retailers, including Amazon.

Our opinion

The Skagen Jorn Hybrid HR Fits between full hybrid smartwatches like the old Q Crewmaster and full touchscreen watches like the Falster 3. It eliminates the simplicity and real watch-like look of a full hybrid, but doesn't offer the convenience or speed of a touchscreen to get the added functionality activate.

The customizable screen is a highlight, but the connectivity issues are frustrating. While the battery life is reasonable, it doesn't go beyond what you get from some touchscreen watches. Wearing the Skagen Jorn HR has sometimes made me miss the days of a simple hybrid watch, and sometimes I've wondered why I didn't put on something like the Apple Watch instead, and it's unlikely to be very satisfying to own them.

Is there a better alternative?

If you're looking to spend less than $ 200 on a new smartwatch and don't need a touchscreen, the $ 179 Amazfit GTR 2 or the $ 139 GTR 2e can do it all for less. Buying a Wear OS smartwatch costs more, with the $ 300 Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 being our recommendation. If you own an iPhone, we recommend spending a little more and getting the $ 279 Apple Watch SE. It works perfectly with iOS, has more features and functions, and looks great too.

If you're looking for a connected watch that looks like a watch, the Withings Steel HR or Withings ScanWatch are great options. Although functionality varies, Casio's attached G-Shock range adds some related elements to a wide variety of designs.

How long it will take?

Time is on Skagen Jorn Hybrid HR's side. The lifespan of the watch is really only limited by the app support and the internal battery and shouldn't cause any problems for at least two or three years. The design is classic and is unlikely to go out of style. The splash resistance and metal case should also be secure.

Should you buy it?

No. If you're looking for a smartwatch that is more than just a simple hybrid, buy a full touchscreen model.

Editor's recommendations




25 Apr
Blog

Motorola Tech3 Review: Hybrid Earbuds For The Plug-in Crowd

Motorola Tech3 True Wireless Earbuds

Motorola Tech3 Test: Wireless earphones without range anxiety

"A clever hybrid design takes you from wired to really wireless in seconds if you agree with average sound."

  • Clever hybrid design

  • Well-designed cable management

  • Clear and precise sound

  • Good battery life

  • IPX5 water resistance

  • Not enough bass

  • No volume control

  • Poor call quality when it is loud

  • Massive charging case

Surprisingly, real wireless earphones and electric cars have a lot in common. Both offer unprecedented freedom: electric cars free us from our addiction to oil, and real wireless earphones free us from our addiction to cables. However, both inventions also have inherent limitations: electric cars have a maximum range determined by their battery capacity, and the same applies to the length of time that real wireless earphones can deliver music without interruption.

In both cases, fear of a lack of juice can be described as range anxiety, provided you are willing to equate kilometers driven with hours of playback. It is this range fear that makes the real Motorola Tech3 wireless earphones so interesting for $ 100. With a literal plug-in hybrid design that lets you turn them into wired earbuds, they're the perfect antidote to fear of range.

But do the advantages of Tech3's 3-in-1 design outweigh the disadvantages? Let’s take a closer look.

Wrap your head around this design

Motorola Tech3 True Wireless EarbudsSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

You may find that once you keep an eye on the charging case, the Tech3 is not like other real wireless earbuds. It looks like a really big black yo-yo. This is due in part to the squat, cylindrical shape, but the comparison becomes almost inevitable due to the two sets of braided cords that wrap around the middle section.

The braided cords do not stretch or deform at all and snap into their slots in the same way each time. It just works.

Open the compact makeup style lid and you'll find that the earbuds are neatly tucked away in their own charging corners. If you fold up a second smaller lid in the main compartment, the ends of one of these braided cords become visible. This is the one with which you physically connect the earphones in their "sport loop" configuration.

The second cable – the cable that is magnetically attached to the sports loop for wired use – is accessible from the bottom of the case. The arrangement reminds me of decades of trying to keep wired earbuds neat by wrapping them around all kinds of objects. It was almost always a total mess, but the Tech3 manages to bring order to chaos thanks to one important difference: the braided cords do not stretch or deform at all, which means that they wrap around their housing and snap into their respective slots every time the same way. It just works.

The only problem with this design is its size. Unlike most of today's real wireless earbuds, the Tech3 case cannot be comfortably plugged in. Some people may also be annoyed by the micro USB charging port, a format that has almost disappeared on newer phones (ironically, the latest Motorola models as well). There is a charge indicator on the front, but it is tiny and very difficult to see.

Comfortable buds

Motorola Tech3 True Wireless EarbudsSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

When I first saw the Tech3 press images, I was concerned that being able to connect the sports loop cable would mean big, bulky earphones. Amazingly, the buds aren't bigger or heavier than non-hybrid models, and they're actually smaller than some others – Amazon's Echo Buds are chunkier.

The plastic plugs at the ends of the cable form a barrier to how deep you can insert the earphones into your ears.

They are also very convenient. I'm very lucky with the standard medium-sized earplugs on most earbuds, and the Tech3 was no exception. I could nestle them firmly and comfortably in my ear and they stayed comfortable for several hours.

Despite the fact that you can connect the sports loop without losing size or comfort, there is a pretty big flaw in the design. The hard plastic plugs on the ends of the cable form a physical barrier to how deep you can insert the earphones into your ears. For me, this meant that the natural resistance that the string exerted over time tended to loosen the buds.

There is a reason why practically all ear loop-based earphones use some kind of ear hook or ear fin – you need to stabilize the earphones against this pulling. Unfortunately, the Tech3 is not equipped with built-in or optional ear plugs, which you can find on some models. This appears to be a strange oversight for earphones that are supposed to be tied up and used during intense physical activity. On a positive note, with IPX5 water resistance, they are able to deal with the type of sweat that normally occurs during vigorous exercises.

Decent sound

At $ 100, the Motorola Tech3 is at the top end of the affordable side of the real wireless earphone market. Given the fancy hybrid design, one can expect some sacrifices to be made in the audio department, and this is true: they don't deliver the same audio quality as the 1More Stylish at a similar price.

Nevertheless, they deliver very good clarity and precision with a surprisingly neutral EQ. In this price range, earphones tend to overcompensate for the bass, or they don't provide a satisfactorily full midrange. The Tech3 don't suffer from these drawbacks, making it a better choice for those who like their music with a minimum of tonal changes. Vocals are particularly well represented, and although bass heads want more low-end pomp, most genres actually benefit from the Tech3's sound signature.

Light on functions

Motorola Tech3 True Wireless EarbudsSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

Another area where the Tech3 cuts off some corners is its features. You get the standard controls: play / pause, skip tracks forward / backward and answer / end call. You can also access your phone's personal assistant or speak to Alexa by installing Hubble's free Verve Life app. With this app you can also track the last known location of the earphones in case you lose them.

However, there is no volume control, no listening mode (sometimes called transparency mode) to let outside noise in, and no ear sensor. So if you remove one or both buds, the music will continue to play instead of automatically stopping. And considering that there is a companion app, it's a shame that you don't get an equalizer function either. The controls themselves react very quickly to typing. However, as we've seen with other touch-sensitive earbuds, you may accidentally type (and stop playback) or type twice and the bud may not register the second typing.

Not built for noise

Motorola Tech3 True Wireless EarbudsSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

The call quality with the Tech3 is a hit or miss. The overall voice quality is very good, but your callers will not appreciate it if you are in a busy environment. There is practically no noise cancellation. A light breeze sounded like a wind storm, and a dog that barked more than 50 feet away sounded like it was right next to me. It's a subtle reminder that the Tech3 is part of a portfolio of Motorola-branded products, but not manufactured by Motorola Solutions (the original Motorola company) or the Lenovo subsidiary that controls the mobile phone business. Instead, these earphones are manufactured by Binatone, a Hong Kong-based electronics manufacturer, under license from Lenovo.

Good battery life

Designed for seven hours between charges, you may never need to use this patch cord.

Yes, the Tech3 has been designed to offer unlimited playtime through its hybrid design. However, this does not mean that the battery life is not adequate. Rated seven hours between charges, I actually got more than 7.5 hours out of my right earphone, while the left gave up after almost seven hours.

Even the quick charge function is better than expected with three hours of play after 15 minutes. With only about 1.5 charges in the case (18 hours in total), you may never need to use this connector cable.

Plug-in hybrid

Motorola Tech3 True Wireless EarbudsSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

Using the two cables to switch from completely wireless to fully wired takes only a few seconds. The hardest part is aligning the three-pronged gold contacts on the ends of the sports loop with the corresponding connectors on each earphone. There are a number of white markings that help, but it requires some precision, not to mention good eyesight.

An obvious problem with this arrangement is that these contacts can come loose over time, much like headphone jacks do. It's certainly a risk, but I can tell you that the fit is tight and very secure, at least when new. No gentle pull can move them.

When the earphones are connected via the magnetic headphone cable, they are automatically switched off and sound just as good, if not better, than in wireless mode.

Our opinion

The Motorola Tech3 concept offers a unique solution to a problem that we are not convinced that many people have: how to use your real wireless earphones with a headphone jack. At $ 100, this isn't an expensive solution, but you have to give up a lot to take advantage of its flexibility.

Is there a better alternative?

If great sound is important to you and your budget can stretch a bit, you can actually get a very similar solution with the Shure Aonic 215. They're not as elegantly packaged as the Tech3 and have their own drawbacks, but they're much more flexible.

If great sound is important to you, but $ 100 is your limit, check out our list of the best cheap real wireless earbuds. None of them have the Tech3's clever hybrid trick, but many offer more features and better sound. If battery life is your biggest concern, you can't go wrong for an additional $ 29 with Samsung's amazing 11-hour Galaxy Buds + for $ 129.

How long it will take?

The construction of the Tech3 earphones and their charging case is good, but not great. You will probably survive for several years if you don't abuse them. The two cables are very well made, but it is impossible to say how many times you can connect them to the earphones before this connection fails.

Should you buy it

If you don't necessarily need to be able to connect your real wireless earbuds to a phone or computer, or if you're constantly worried that your battery will run out, skip the Tech3. However, if you appreciate its main function, it is not a real set of real wireless earbuds.

Editor's recommendations




17 Mar
Blog

2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid First Drive Review

2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid

2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid first ride review: fashionably late

"A solid hybrid powertrain makes Honda’s popular CR-V crossover even better."

  • Nice to drive

  • Punchy acceleration

  • Spacious interior

  • Regenerative brake paddle shifters

  • Competitors get better mileage

  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not standard

The Honda CR-V, introduced in 1997, was one of the first crossover commercial vehicles. This made Honda a trendsetter in the 1990s. However, the automaker has fallen back on another important trend: hybrid drives. The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is now in its second generation, and Ford has brought the Escape Hybrid back for the 2020 model year, while the Honda option has only just arrived.

The Honda CR-V Hybrid 2020 tries to make up for lost time. It adapts the two-engine hybrid system previously used in the Accord Hybrid and Insight and marks the first use of this system with all-wheel drive, which is standard in all equipment variants.

The base LX model starts at $ 28,870 – a $ 2,320 premium over a gasoline CR-V. Our test car was a touring model with a range of $ 37,070 or $ 1,225 over a CR-V touring gasoline engine.

Design and interior

You need a keen eye to see the difference between a CR-V hybrid and a gasoline model. Changes in the exterior design are limited to the blue emblem, a model-specific rear bumper that hides the exhaust, and LED fog lights in higher trim levels.

Automakers generally take one of two approaches to the exterior design of their crossovers, and the CR-V falls somewhere in the middle. While crossovers are essentially jacked-up cars, the temptation is to make them look sturdy and truck-like, as Toyota did with the RAV4. In contrast, the latest Ford Escape looks more like a car, almost like a Ford Focus when viewed through a Funhouse mirror. The CR-V is based on both playbooks. The upright profile and the imposing front section are truck-like, the slim headlights and the curved surfaces are more like a car. The result won't turn your head, but it looks good and should age well.

2020 Hona CR-V HybridStephen Edelstein / Digital Trends

The interior of the CR-V Hybrid is inexpensive compared to its competitors. The Honda has more rear legroom than the Ford Escape Hybrid and the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. The Ford offers more front legroom, and the it and Honda are virtually tied to headroom.

The Honda also offers more cargo space than the Toyota with built-in rear seats and the Ford with the rear seats folded down (Toyota doesn't give an amount when the rear seats are folded down). The Escape Hybrid has a sliding seat in the second row, which gives it a space advantage over the CR-V if the rear seats are available (but at the expense of leg room in the second row). The CR-V Hybrid also has less cargo space than a petrol CR-V because the battery sits under the cargo floor. The Honda has a low loading floor height, which makes getting in and out easier.

Technology, infotainment and driver assistance

A 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is available, but not in the LX basic configuration. The touring phone charges the phone, but the charging pad is too small for some phones.

A digital instrument cluster contains hybrid-specific displays, e.g. B. A power meter that indicates whether the car uses a gasoline engine or an electric motor. The graphics for the instrument cluster are of high quality and easy to read, which cannot be said of the cheap looking graphics on the main touchscreen of the CR-V.

2020 Honda CR-V HybridStephen Edelstein / Digital Trends

The CR-V Hybrid comes standard with the Honda Sensing line of driver aids, which include autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, downhill departure, lane departure warning, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has a comparable selection of standard driver aids. The Ford Escape Hybrid has a standard lane departure warning system and autonomous emergency braking. However, adaptive cruise control is optionally available.

Ford and Toyota have no equivalent of the downhill Honda, which automatically steers the car back onto the road when a wheel crosses an outer lane marking. However, the RAV4 Hybrid has standard traffic sign recognition, and the Escape Hybrid has post-collision braking to prevent a car from rolling against other objects after a collision.

Experience behind the wheel

The drive train of the CR-V Hybrid consists of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine that works with Honda's two-engine hybrid system. One electric motor drives the wheels, while the other acts as a generator and gains energy from regenerative braking and from the petrol engine. The gas engine only drives the wheels directly if the system considers this to be the most efficient.

The total system performance is 212 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. This is more than a conventional CR-V or a Ford Escape Hybrid. The RAV4 Hybrid has 219 hp; Toyota does not specify a torque number.

Since the petrol engine is not coupled to the wheels most of the time, the Honda system has a special feature. The engine speed does not always correspond to your acceleration or driving speed. Honda improved this with the CR-V Hybrid, and we found that the engine didn't seem to cry as much at low speeds as the Honda Insight. The transition between petrol and electrical energy feels even more linear with the Escape Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid.

The CR-V Hybrid is simply beautiful to drive.

Apart from that, the CR-V Hybrid felt great. It's not fast, but the electric motor offers a helpful torque boost when starting stops. The ride is quieter than the competing CUVs from Ford and Toyota, and the interior is quiet. The shift paddles that control regenerative braking were helpful. We could slow the car down without touching the brake pedal, much like shifting down in a manual transmission car.

Like the standard CR-V, the hybrid uses a mechanical all-wheel drive system with a drive shaft that connects the front engine to the rear axle. Ford did the same with the Escape Hybrid, but the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid uses a second electric motor for the rear wheels, with no physical connection to the front wheels. Mechanical all-wheel drive is cheaper, Honda told Digital Trends, and it is unlikely that most drivers will notice the difference under normal conditions. But what about abnormal conditions?

2020 Honda CR-V HybridStephen Edelstein / Digital Trends

Honda and Toyota boast that their hybrid crossovers can be used off-road and claim that their respective all-wheel drive systems are key. At the start of the CR-V Hybrid, Honda let us drive around a sand pit in both the CR-V and the RAV4 Hybrid. Sure enough, the CR-V did better. The RAV4 Hybrid tumbled awkwardly on the track when its electronics clicked and buzzed in protest. The CR-V Hybrid also has more ground clearance and better approach and departure angles than the RAV4 Hybrid, making it less likely to hit obstacles.

However, we had no opportunity to test the CR-V Hybrid on a more traditional off-road trail, as we did when the RAV4 started. Of course, neither of them can keep up with the skills of real off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler and the Toyota 4Runner. Crossovers like CR-V and RAV4 are not designed for serious off-roading. But if you are ever on the run from Tusken Raiders, the CR-V Hybrid has your back.

Fuel consumption and security

The real reason to buy a hybrid is mileage, and in this area the CR-V lags behind its rivals. The Honda is rated 38 mpg combined (35 mpg city, 40 mpg highway), while the RAV4 Hybrid is rated 40 mpg combined (41 mpg city, 38 mpg highway). While the CR-V surpasses the 37 mpg freeway drive rating of the four-wheel drive Escape Hybrid, the Ford is also available with front-wheel drive, which together it can achieve 41 mpg.

We managed to improve Honda Environmental Protection Agency ratings and hit 51 mpg in a short loop. However, the numbers fell quickly with less stingy driving.

The CR-V Hybrid lags behind its competitors in terms of mileage.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the CR-V Hybrid a five-star overall rating. The hybrid model is delivered as standard with the headlights required to achieve a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Honda offers a three-year basic warranty of 36,000 miles and a five-year warranty of 60,000 miles for the drivetrain. This is the same coverage as for Ford and Toyota. Honda has a solid reliability record. While the hybrid powertrain is new, the CR-V itself has proven to be absolutely solid.

How DT would configure this car

Honda made this easy by making many key features standard. All equipment variants are equipped as standard with all-wheel drive and the Honda Sensing range of driver aids. The only thing missing is Apple CarPlay / Android auto compatibility, which requires an upgrade from the basic LX trim level to the EX. Another upgrade doesn't offer much of an advantage. The EX-L adds leather seats, and the Touring is equipped with a mobile phone charger, a hands-free tailgate and a heated steering wheel. However, this is a luxury and not a necessity.

Our opinion

Not surprisingly, the Honda CR-V Hybrid 2020 is a well-executed example of this breed. The standard CR-V was already one of the best small crossovers, and Honda's hybrid system has proven itself in the Accord Hybrid and Insight. However, the CR-V Hybrid is not only good in isolation, it can also hold its own against its two competitors.

Honda couldn't beat the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Ford Escape Hybrid in terms of fuel consumption, but the CR-V Hybrid makes up for it in other areas, and the efficiency gap is small. The Honda is nicer to drive than its competitors, has more usable cargo space and offers many standard driver aids.

Should you get one?

Yes. Sometimes it's good to be fashionably late.

Editor's recommendations




16 Mar
Blog

2020 Polestar 1 Plug-In Hybrid Luxury Coupe Review

2020 Polestar 1

2020 Polestar 1 review: All aboard the Scandinavian Express

"Polestar's first car, the Plug-in Hybrid 1, fills a gap between efficiency and performance."

  • Beautiful design

  • Seriously powerful

  • Real torque vectoring

  • User-friendly technology

  • Tiny trunk

  • It feels very volvo-like inside

Heritage is a double-edged sword in the automotive industry.

It sells cars and there are whole brands that are boldly built on it, but it's also a burden in the age of electrification. How would enthusiasts respond if Porsche released a 911 powered by a flat twin generator and four electric motors? Not good.

This is where Polestar comes in. It was founded in 2017 and has no legacy as an independent brand. Therefore, it is not bound by rules other than the rules it sets. The 1, its aptly named first car, does not deviate far from the style elements that define GT coupes, but it does without a large-displacement engine for plug-in hybrid drive. Does it move the segment forward or does it fall too short? I flew to Gothenburg, Sweden, to familiarize myself with one of the 1,500 units that Polestar is planning.

Design and interior

If you look at photos of Polestar 1 and wonder what kind of Volvo you're looking at, you're not alone – at least four people asked me about it during my time. You also have plans. This shapely two-door began as the Concept Coupé, which the Swedish company presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2013 to get a preview of its next design language. Executives beamed as they celebrated the beautiful design study as the legacy of the P1800, but no one expected it to see the light at the end of a production line. It should have lived in the company's museum.

I thought I was flying under the radar in Polestar 1. I was wrong. It turned heads everywhere.

His fate changed fundamentally when Volvo and the parent company Geely Polestar moved from a tuner and racing car manufacturer to an independent luxury brand in 2017. Creating a business case for a two-door version of the S90 suddenly became much easier, according to Volvo. The design icon turned into an upscale Grand Tourer with supercar-like power and a suitable price. Carbon fiber is used extensively to balance the weight of the hybrid system as much as possible.

What we saw in Frankfurt seven years ago is somewhat unexpectedly almost exactly what Polestar builds. Here's a cheat sheet if you want to spot the differences: Stylists have redesigned the lower part of the front bumper, pulled the Volvo emblem off the grille, and nip-and-tucked the rear end. The elegant proportions and the attractive, reserved lines are retained. It's all done in a very subtle and ultimately very Swedish way. The designers haven't attached a rear wing the size of a bench in the National Mall, nor an air scoop in the form of an oversized Cool Ranch Dorito.

With this in mind, I thought I was flying under the radar at 1. I was wrong. It turned heads everywhere. I sipped a double espresso as I watched a man jog, circled back, and spent at least 3 minutes examining him from every angle. Those who are on the pulse of the auto industry know immediately that they are looking for something special. Polestar will only produce 1,500 examples of the 1 in Chengdu, China, so there is little chance of spotting one in the wild.

2020 Polestar 1Ronan Glon

Inside, parts like the three-spoke steering wheel, the digital instrument cluster, the touchscreen of the infotainment system and the ventilation slots that surround it will look familiar to you if you were in a Volvo of the latest generation. Stylists added, among other things, yellow seat belts and an Orrefors crystal gear selector that looks and feels like a Volvo behind the driver's seat, though, and that could be a fork at this price.

The cargo hold deserves a special mention; The Polestar 1 is the only car I have ever driven with a trunk that is as useless as it is fascinating. And believe me, it registers an extremely strong signal on both radars. The total capacity is 4.4 cubic feet, which is slightly less than that of a Lamborghini Aventador S. with a mid-engine.

2020 Polestar 1Ronan Glon

This is because part of the drivetrain battery is housed in the transmission tunnel, which the drive shaft normally drives into, and the rest is directly behind the rear seats. I couldn't fit a carry-on suitcase, my briefcase, and much else.

The disadvantage is that you can marvel at the orange high-voltage cabling through a transparent, scratch-resistant panel. Each port is labeled so you know what is what – it's a cool way to showcase technology. It almost feels like you're going through a life-size circuit diagram that's heavenly for auto technician nerds.

Technology and infotainment

Thanks to carbon fiber, the doors are lighter than expected. Once inside, the driver sits behind a high-resolution 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that includes a speedometer, a power indicator, a fuel gauge, and a fourth dial to provide information about what the hybrid system is doing and what is not. For example, it signals exactly when the drive train switches from electric to petrol-powered. Navigation instructions are also displayed in the instrument cluster. You can also find them on the standard head-up display and on the touchscreen on the center stack. There is also Android Auto, so you have no excuse to get lost here.

2020 Polestar 1Ronan Glon

Speaking of the touchscreen: it's a 9.3-inch device that – you guessed it – is shared with members of the Volvo range. I have praised the intuitiveness of this system in previous reviews, and this is no different here. It contains a huge amount of information, but is easy and straightforward to use. The various menus are clearly marked, the graphics are sharp and the response time is quick.

Polestar inherited Volvo's manic, decades-long obsession with passenger safety.

There are better systems on the market like the MBUX software from Mercedes-Benz, but that from Polestar remains excellent every day. Remember that it is also at the end of its life cycle, so it has stood the test of time well. The company has already developed its next infotainment system with contributions from Google. It is Android-based, smartphone-like, is displayed on an 11.0-inch screen and is expected to appear in the not too distant future.

Polestar also inherited Volvo's manic, decades-long obsession with passenger safety. The long list of electronic driving aids includes front and rear collision mitigation (which the car can steer out of an accident with an oncoming vehicle), a 360-degree camera, and enough airbags to build an inflatable replica of the majestic Edinburgh Castle.

Performance and ride

Volvo and China's parent company, Geely, founded Polestar to manufacture electric vehicles like the 2, but the 1 is the notable exception to the rule. It is powered by a petrol-electric plug-in hybrid drive, which consists of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with turbocharger and compressor, two electric motors and an integrated starter generator (ISG).

The hybrid system's total output is 600 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque.

The engine and ISG are hidden under the long bonnet, the electric motors are each assigned to one of the rear wheels, and there is no mechanical connection between the axles, so the system delivers all-wheel drive via the road. The electricity is stored in a large (for a plug-in hybrid) 34-kilowatt hour lithium-ion battery.

The hybrid system's total output is 600 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. How it gets on the sidewalk depends on the selected driving mode. If you choose the Pure profile, the engine is turned off and the 1 is turned into a rear-wheel drive electric car for about 60 miles. In this configuration, it is quiet, agile and fluid to drive. I used this mode when I was traveling through downtown Gothenburg. Selecting AWD, Hybrid or Power modes on the touchscreen silently wakes the engine from sleep to achieve full powertrain performance.

2020 Polestar 1Ronan Glon

After leaving town, I got to know the 600 horses under my right foot and found that they do not all live in the same stable. When you press the accelerator pedal, the first thing you feel is the immediate torque that is delivered by the electric motors in the rear. The four-cylinder compressor winds up quickly and the turbocharger's thrust comes last.

Six hundred is an impressive number when we talk about the performance of an engine or hybrid system, but in this case it doesn't mean brutal, lightning-fast acceleration. It's linear, which goes well with the character of this car. It's a good-natured coupe with a distinct Scandinavian flavor, not a racing rat that spends its nights in the pits.

2020 Polestar 1Ronan Glon

The petrol-electric configuration on the road also has an extremely interesting (and somewhat unexpected) effect on the handling that I discovered on the winding, tree-lined roads that separate the interior of Sweden from the country's scenic, seafood-crazy coastline.

If everything fits, the 1 overcomes its not inconsiderable weight of 5,170 pounds to offer a sharp and precise driving experience.

The four-cylinder transmits around 300 hp to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, which results in easy torque control when accelerated strongly.

Meanwhile, the two electric motors relentlessly push the car forward. For a few seconds, the 1 feels like a car with front and rear wheel drive at the same time. It's a unique behavior and it's surprisingly fun once you've learned how to do it.

If everything fits, the 1 overcomes its not inconsiderable weight of 5,170 pounds to offer a sharp and precise driving experience. This is where technology comes in again. The electric motors are independent of each other so that they can spin at different speeds. This means that the system can slow down the inner rear wheel in a curve. This is real torque vectorization. This makes the 1 feel agile and responsive on a winding road.

2020 Polestar 1Ronan Glon

Polestar has teamed up with Swedish suspension expert Öhlins to tune the 1. You have chosen a ride that is reasonably firm – the car never feels like a floating Viking ship, but it is not punitive or overly bouncy.

Mammoth brakes brought the coupé to a standstill without drama, but I didn't use it often. Seriously, who needs brakes when you have 600 horsepower? I'm just having fun. The brake energy recovery system slows the car down as soon as you take your foot off the accelerator to generate electricity that it sends to the battery. This way you can almost come to a standstill.

True to the great touring spirit, which is partly defined by the ability to effortlessly chase through countries, the 1 is content to cross and cross and cross … and cross.

Volvo's Pilot Assist technology combines adaptive cruise control with Lane Keeping Assist. Over the past few years, I've driven enough cars with this system to see how much it has improved. At the beginning of his life, the lane keeping assistant pinged the car nervously between the lane markings. In the 1 and in newer Volvo models such as the V60 Cross Country, the car remains centered on the lane.

Reach and efficiency

In its most efficient hybrid mode, the Polestar 1 has a fuel consumption of 64 MPG, a number that roughly equates it to the BMW i8, which will soon be retiring, and a range of up to 540 miles, which exceeds every 100% electric car considerably larger than Hawaii. Volvo's XC90 plug-in hybrid is rated at 55 MPG, while the petrol-electric version of the Audi Q5 is rated at 65 MPG. Both are less powerful than the 1. According to Polestar, it takes 80% less than an hour to charge a completely empty battery when using a 50-kilowatt DC fast charger.

Although it is a relatively new car, the 1 was built with proven mechanical components that can be found in several Volvo models. Therefore, it should be able to drive reliably and carefree for many years. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not yet been forced into a wall, so its crash test result is not available.

How DT would configure this car

It's simple: I don't really need to configure it. With a starting price of $ 156,500 including destination, Polestar considered it appropriate to include all the features of its arsenal in the list of standard equipment. Heated seats? Check. Soft leather upholstery? It is there and it is beautiful. An amazingly clear Bowers & Wilkins sound system? Yup. The only option is matte paint, which costs $ 5,000. I would skip it. I would order mine in a gray called magnesium and keep my tester's wheels.

Our opinion

2020 Polestar 1Ronan Glon

It is far too easy to just write off the Polestar 1 as a large Volvo coupe. It's true, it looks and feels that way in many ways, but the plug-in hybrid system makes it more than just a two-door S90. It gets the GT label by ticking the boxes for comfort and performance and offers useful standard technical functions (such as the head-up display and pilot assistant) that do not impair the driving experience. However, it's a shame about the trunk.

On a secondary level, the 1 really feels special. It is confident but unpretentious. It's rare, but it doesn't scream. It's quick, but it doesn't flaunt it. I drove faster and spent time in more expensive (and accordingly more wasteful) coupes, but the 1 is one that I still chatter about when I'm an old man.

Should you get one?

Depends on. In the price range of the Polestar 1 you will find much more powerful super sports cars. However, if you are looking for an efficient, comfortable Grand Tourer with all the frills, this is the place for you.

Editor's recommendations




08 Mar
Blog

2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid Review: It’s Great, But Buy The LE

Toyota Camry Hybrid

2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid Review: It's great, but get the LE

"The Toyota Camry Hybrid remains a reliable choice among hybrid sedans."

  • Outstanding reliability and security

  • An improved entune system is an improvement

  • The latest redesign still looks good

  • The basic equipment offers many great functions

  • With higher equipment, the fuel consumption is lower

  • The XLE can get quite expensive

  • Trunk is small for a medium sized sedan

The Toyota Camry Hybrid has been around for more than a decade, unlike the Corolla, which received a hybrid version for the first time in 2020. The Camry, however, benefited from regular updates from Toyota through its characteristic and reliable hybrid system. It also benefited from a major redesign in 2018 that gave it a sportier look and cutting-edge technology.

I drove the Camry Hybrid XLE, the highest configuration. The MSRP starts at $ 32,730, and some extras have been added to my test car, including the driver assistance package, adaptive headlights, a sunroof, and the navigation package that also updated the audio system. All in, including the target fee, my lender Camry was priced at $ 39,766.

A Camry hybrid without a bell or whistle starts at just over $ 28,000 for the base LE fairing. There's also a Hybrid SE that starts at $ 30,130 and adds a few luxurious details like faux leather upholstery and shift paddles.

Since I've driven the fanciest Camry Hybrid, it's only fair to compare it to the fanciest versions of its closest competition: the Honda Accord Hybrid and the Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid. The Accord Hybrid's upper fairing is similar to that of the Camry Hybrid XLE (with the extras in my loaner) and starts at $ 36,245. The Ioniq Hybrid starts at $ 31,200, several thousand dollars lower.

The competition also comes from the house. The Toyota Prius is synonymous with hybrid technology, and its top spec also has a starting price north of $ 32,000.

design

Toyota's design is often designed as boring, boring, and for the masses, rather than having style. The redesign of the Camry in 2018, however, churned up the company's design language with a sportier look for the four-door mid-size sedan. The front end is more aggressive and the lines along the body stretch towards the rear of the car.

Toyota Camry Hybrid exteriorToyota

The inside of the XLE is clean and tidy. The middle touchscreen of the updated infotainment system does not hover uncomfortably over the dashboard like the screen in the Camry. This trim also has tiger eye wood paneling that enhances the feeling of luxury.

Spaciousness and comfort are close to most mid-size sedans. The batteries are arranged so that they do not penetrate the seat or trunk, but the trunk is slightly smaller than that of the Accord and much smaller than that of the Ioniq. The Prius has less passenger space, but if you have to carry large or awkwardly shaped items, its hatchback is a big plus over the Camry's trunk.

technology

My lender Camry's updated Entune infotainment system had razor-sharp graphics on a screen that could be split up to display several types of information, such as: B. the next round in the navigation area and the current title in the satellite radio. The touch inputs were simple, with physical buttons on either side of the screen. My Camry's improved infotainment included a bird's-eye view camera, which I appreciated when parking in parallel.

Toyota Camry Hybrid interiorKristen Hall-Geisler / Digital Trends

Setting up my phone for the Entune system was a breeze. I was able to pair my phone in less than 10 seconds. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on all Camry hybrids, a major advance over previous model years where Android Auto was missing.

The driver receives a screen between the analog displays. This ad is full of information, though I'm sure it can be customized if you take the time to figure out how. If I own the car, I bring a cup of coffee to the driver's seat and spend some time in the driveway with the electronic instruction manual to set everything up as I like it. However, not everyone will be so patient.

Toyota Camry Hybrid instrument displayKristen Hall-Geisler / Digital Trends

The flood of information on this 7-inch TFT screen was overwhelming but useful, and the steering wheel controls made it easy to scroll through different types of information. I was able to check the fuel consumption of my trip, the route I was listening to, and the status of my driver assistance functions such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. My lender also had a 10-inch heads-up display (HUD) that was massive and visible in every light. I relied on the HUD for basics like speed, more than the 7 inch screen.

When you upgrade to expensive panels and add packages, you need to choose which high-tech features you like best. The top panel of the Accord Hybrid contains many functions of my Camry Hybrid XLE with additional packages. However, the Accord also has a WiFi hotspot, while the Camry can connect to Alexa. If you care about screen size, look elsewhere. The upper fairing of the Ioniq Hybrid has a 10.25-inch screen and the Prius Limited has an 11.6-inch screen.

Fuel consumption

Toyota made a fascinating choice for the Camry hybrid system. The basic LE cladding has lithium-ion batteries that are light and efficient. It combines 52 mpg.

But this is not the car that I drove. I had the XLE, which like the medium-weight SE has heavier and less efficient nickel-metal hydride batteries. It is an older technology that has served the Toyota hybrid system well for years, and it is less expensive. Unfortunately, this means that the fanciest Camry Hybrid has the lowest fuel consumption: an estimated 44 mpg city / 47 mpg highway / 46 mpg combined.

Toyota Camry HybridToyota

This is much better than a conventional gas-only sedan, but not particularly good for a hybrid. The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid achieves a total of 55 mpg and the Prius XLE a total of 52 mpg. If you want to buy the Camry and save money, choose the cheaper and more efficient basic Camry.

The EPA estimates are also optimistic. They are a great way to compare apples to apples, but I personally find that my mileage rarely lives up to the EPA sticker. During my time, I only drove the Camry Hybrid XLE on roads and made no special efforts to reduce fuel consumption. I've seen just under 40 mpg, which is frankly better than I expected.

Regardless of which equipment package you drive, the Camry Hybrid delivers a total of 208 hp. The transmission was smooth and quiet, and the acceleration is punchy. It was not a problem to get into the traffic flow or carry out a quick pass.

safety

Every Toyota is equipped as standard with a version of its Safety Sense Suite with technical functions for driver assistance. The Camry Hybrid has Safety Sense P, which includes a forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, a lane departure warning system and adaptive cruise control. If you want more, the driver assistance package offers a bird's-eye view camera, rear traffic alarm and the head-up display.

The insurance institute for road safety has awarded the 2020 Camry the Top Safety Pick +, its highest recommendation.

Safety Sense is as easy to use as any other system on the market. The controls are on the steering wheel and are easy to reach without a glance once you know where they are. By switching the middle display to show the safety technology, the tracking distance between you and the car in front of you and your lane keeping status become clear.

The insurance institute for road safety has awarded the 2020 Camry the Top Safety Pick +, its highest recommendation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded the Camry Hybrid five out of five stars in all of its crash tests.

The predicted reliability values ​​are above average for the Camry Hybrid, although there is currently a recall with a coolant leak. Toyota offers a typical warranty for the Camry Hybrid with 3 years / 36,000 miles for a comprehensive warranty and 5 years / 60,000 miles for the drivetrain. All hybrid components are guaranteed for 8 years / 100,000 miles.

How DT would configure the Toyota Camry Hybrid 2020

While it was great to have all the bells and whistles in the Camry Hybrid XLE, the better fuel economy in the LE is attractive. I would go for this model and add the package that includes the sunroof, blind spot monitoring, and updated 8-inch touchscreen and entune system for around $ 2,700.

Wrap up

The 2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid has been around for years. The technology is proven and reliable, and improvements over the years have kept the design and technology up to date. It is still a good choice for hybrid sedan buyers.

There are only a few disadvantages of a car that has so many features even in its basic configuration. But paying for the top panel of this test car didn't seem to work. The base Camry hybrid already contains a lot, and you can add most goodies at a reasonable price. In addition, the basic model is more efficient.

Should you get one?

Yes, if you want a reliable, efficient limousine at a reasonable price. Just rethink the suspension for the top fairing.

Editor's recommendations




12