2024 Sonata The Edge Hybrid Test Drive: Comparing the 2.0 Gasoline Model
Hello, I’m Double Look, an automotive influencer.
The Sonata The Edge has received a warm response from customers, leading to a surge in sales.
As of the first half of 2024, the Sonata The Edge recorded sales of 22,224 units,
comfortably surpassing its domestic competitor, the K5 (18,388 units), and securing the top spot in the mid-size sedan market.
In particular, sales reached the high 5,000s in May (5,820 units) and June (5,712 units),
indicating that the model is on track to achieve annual sales of 50,000 units.
Hyundai revealed the Sonata The Edge at the 2023 Seoul Mobility Show, and the positive feedback from existing owners has helped it achieve record sales since its launch.
At a time when demand is sluggish and vehicle transactions are declining,
this news must be a welcome relief for Hyundai.
I usually travel or go on business trips by KTX, frequently renting a Sonata for test drives.
Recently, during a trip, I rented the Sonata The Edge through SoCar,
and drove over 93 miles (150 km) on a long-distance trip.
The increased space and refined design compared to the previous model provided a high level of satisfaction.
Over the past two months, I tested both the 2.0 gasoline and 2.0 hybrid models,
which helped me clearly identify the pros and cons of each powertrain.
For reference, the combined fuel efficiency of the Sonata The Edge 2.0 hybrid is 45.8 mpg (19.4 km/L),
which is significantly higher compared to the 2.0 gasoline (29.6 mpg or 12.6 km/L) and the 1.6 gasoline turbo (31.8 mpg or 13.5 km/L).
One owner of the Sonata The Edge praised its fuel efficiency and quietness.
They mainly drive in congested urban areas, picking up their children from their academies in Daechi-dong and Bokjeong-dong,
and they expressed satisfaction, noting that their child, who studies late, often falls asleep comfortably thanks to the vehicle's excellent quietness and smooth driving experience.
As someone without children, I can’t fully understand this aspect, but
The Sonata The Edge has gained more spaciousness with its facelift.
As people’s body sizes continue to increase, vehicle sizes are also trending larger,
and this model, along with the All-New Grandeur, has seen the most significant size increase among the company’s mid-size models.
Last week, I tested the gasoline 2.0 model,
and since most of my driving was on the highway, I felt some disappointment with its performance.
Nevertheless, the response speed of the smart cruise control and the stability of various driving assistance systems, such as lane departure warning, were quite impressive.
I also felt satisfied with the interior space;
most notably, the column-mounted gear shifter positioned behind the steering wheel made the space between the driver and passenger feel even more spacious.
2024 Sonata Hybrid Specifications and Estimated Pricing
Let’s now take a look at the specifications and estimated pricing for the 2024 Sonata Hybrid Premium trim.
Overall Length: 192.3 inches (4,910 mm) / Overall Width: 73.2 inches (1,860 mm) / Overall Height: 111.4 inches (2,840 mm) / Wheelbase: 111.4 inches (2,840 mm)
Curb Weight: 3,417 lbs (1,550 kg)
Combined Fuel Efficiency: 45.8 mpg (19.4 km/L) (City: 46.7 mpg / Highway: 44.6 mpg)
Acquisition Tax: 1,300 USD (163,000 won) (Hybrid Discount)Bond Discount: 85 USD (11,000 won) (Hybrid Discount, based on Seoul)
Although this is the entry trim, the hybrid engine leads to an actual purchase price in the mid-30,000 USD range,
which could be a significant financial burden for those with limited savings.
Moreover, with the rising popularity of hybrid models,the reality is that delivery times are also increasing.
As of July, the waiting period for the Sonata The Edge Hybrid is four months.
In contrast, choosing a different powertrain allows you to receive a vehicle within a month,
However, with KS Auto Plan's long-term rental service, you can receive a vehicle immediately without a waiting period, and become an owner of the Sonata The Edge without any initial cost, thanks to a zero deposit option.
You can use the vehicle for your desired duration and switch to a new model at the end of the contract, eliminating the stress of selling a used car.
KS Auto Plan collaborates with over 20 financial institutions, allowing customers to compare options and find the most affordable rates.
Their competitive pricing estimates have earned positive feedback from customers,
and in 2020, they received the Asia Economic Brand Power Award.
You can easily apply for a quote on their website.
If you have a specific vehicle in mind, please request a quote and compare it with other companies before making a decision.
Today, I provided a comprehensive overview of the Sonata The Edge test drive, highlighting the advantages of the hybrid model and owner evaluations.
If you have any additional questions, feel free to leave a comment, and I’ll respond promptly.