COSTA MESA, CA – Have you noticed more Hyundai Sonata’s on Los Angeles roads lately. Driving this increase is its eye-catching “Fluidic Sculpture” design, attractive pricing, and excellent fuel economy. The latter is of significant importance in LA where fuel prices are well above the national average. Accompanying this feature is the Sonata’s eco-friendliness. On February 13, Hyundai Motor America announced that the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) had placed the Sonata on its annual “Greener Choices” list as best in its class: large sedan. This marks the seventh straight year that the Sonata received this recognition.
Sonata Product Manager John Shon noted, “Sonata’s acknowledgment as a leader in fuel efficiency for the seventh year in a row only strengthens our commitment to delivering sustainable solutions for consumers.” He added, “The Sonata offers class-above interior volume compared to its key competitors and provides the best fuel economy in the EPA Large Car segment with an exceptional 28 MPG combined fuel economy rating.”
In addition to eco-friendliness, styling, and fuel economy, the sonata sports an array of hi-tech features including Blue Link® technology, an available seven-inch touch screen navigation system, HD Radio, and a panoramic sunroof. Its base price is just under $20,000. I deem the Sonata to be the Swiss Army Knife of the Hyundai lineup. A turboed version is available as well as the hybrid model, which boasts an impressive 35 MPG city and 40 MPG highway EPA rating.
The ACEEE is a nonprofit organization, which focuses on the advancement of energy efficiency programs, technologies, investments, and behaviors. Its “Greener Choices” list on the greenercars.org Website identifies top, widely-available models in each vehicle class. This “Greener Choices” list includes automobiles, trucks, and SUVs. Thus, consumers can make “greener choices” whatever their vehicle needs may be.
ACEEE also publishes a “Meanest” list of the highest environmental polluters. This year, a number of heavier light-duty vehicles, out-smogged European sports cars as the highest emitters. The dirtiest vehicles for 2012 are the twin Chevrolet G3500 Express and GMC G3500 Savana cargo vans, followed by the Ford E-350 Wagon, and the Bugatti Veyron sports car.
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