Hyundai Sonata Hybrid deliveries delayed as brand changes artificial engine noise

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Deliveries of the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid have been delayed to at least until late March because the company is changing the car’s device that emits an artificial engine noise at low speeds. Hyundai originally planned on having the Sonata Hybrid available in January, but on a small number of vehicles are in dealer stock, according to spokesman Jim Trainor.

While Trainor declined to say how many Sonata Hybrids have arrived in the United States, he said about 700 units are in port or at sea.

Dealers can expect the Sonata Hybrid units to start trickling into dealerships at the end of this month or early April, Trainor said.

Click here for more news on the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.

Refresher: The 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is powered by a 2.4L Theta II engine making 169-hp at 6,000 rpm and 156 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. The engine is mated to an electric motor that makes an additional 40.2-hp and 151.2 lb-ft of torque. Working together side-by-side, both units develop a total of 209-hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid can also operate in EV-only mode at speeds of up to 62 mph. Fuel-economy is rated at 35/40 mpg (city/highway). Prices start at $25,795.

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid:

– By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News