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First US market hybrid from Hyundai is based on Sonata saloon

This is the hybrid Hyundai Sonata saloon, which was launched at the New York motor show.

The car is differentiated by from the standard Sonata by a completely new front end, which adds a massive grille inspired by the Hyundai Blue-Will. The styling changes aren't just cosmetic as they also improve airflow to the rear of the car. The rear has also been reshaped, in order to reduce drag. As a result, the car's drag coefficient drops from 0.28 to 0.25.

See the hybrid Hyundai Sonata saloon pictures

Hyundai Blue-Will concept details, pictures and video

The car is powered by the same 2.4-litre engine in US market saloons, but re-tuned to operate on the more efficient Atkinson cycle. It uses a conventional six-speed automatic gearbox in conjunction with a 30kW electric motor that generates 151lb ft of torque. This set up is called 'Blue Drive' by Hyundai, the total power output is 209bhp and it can operate in electric only mode up to 62mph.

Hyundai is predicting the car will average 44mpg on the US EPA city cycle and and 47mpg on the highway cycle.

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