Consumer Reports doesn’t ‘Recommend’ the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Nissan LEAF

In the latest Consumer Reports sedan test, the publication said that the new Chrysler 300 now ranks among the better upscale sedans and that it is the best Chrysler sedan in decades. The test also include the Acura TL, Toyota Avalon and Hyundai Genesis, which also returned some stellar reviews by the CR team.

Two vehicles that Consumer Reports wasn’t to fond of during their recent tests were the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and the all-electric Nissan LEAF. The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid scored 69, 20 points below the previously-tested and more popular conventional Sonata GLS. The Nissan LEAF ended up scoring a 78, which places it midpack among 6 fuel-efficient hatchbacks that Consumer Reports recently tested.

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Click here for more news on the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.

“The Sonata GLS is among Consumer Reports’ highest-rated family sedans. Although the Sonata Hybrid gets better fuel economy than its non-hybrid doppelganger, the trade-offs in driveability, refinement, and braking performance are too high,” Consumer Reports said in a statement. “The car stumbles and hesitates as it makes the transition from electric to gas power and both handling and braking are less capable.”

Click here for more news on the Nissan LEAF.

“The Leaf, which is the first widely available and affordable all-electric car, is a civilized vehicle with very low running costs,” Consumer Reports said. “It’s quick, very quiet, rides comfortably and is easy to get in and out of. The Leaf’s main drawbacks are a limited driving range of only about 75 miles per charge, and it takes a long time to recharge, about 6 hours on 240V.”

Refresher:

  • Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: The 2012 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.
  • Nissan LEAF: Power for the 2012 Nissan LEAF comes from a 107-hp electric-motor that runs on power supplied by lithium-ion cells. On a full-charge, the Nissan LEAF allows for a driving range of 100 miles with a top speed of 90 mph. A full charge takes up to 8 hours on a standard 200V outlet. Buyers can opt for the DC 50kW quick-charger, which recharges the battery up to 80 percent in under 30 minutes. Prices for the 2012 Nissan LEAF will start at $35,200.

– By: Omar Rana