This is my first hybrid, and I want to make sure I get the most out of it. I’m coming from a 2016 Ram Tradesman, so there’s a lot for me to learn .
The car was advertised to get 40-50 mpg, but I’m averaging about 22 mpg right now. Will that improve? Is there a specific mode I should use? It often shows “EV” on the display, and I’ve been driving in Eco mode.
I’d really like to add a small subwoofer (10”) for better, cleaner bass. Would that void my warranty? Can a place like Best Buy install it?
I’m also thinking about getting the windows tinted. Do you have any recommendations for specific products, or are there reasons to avoid it?
Any other tips or tricks for a beginner? I love this car, but it feels way smarter than I am! Thanks…
Hey. I have the hybrid limited. Mpg will be bad for the few 2000 miles as the engine settles. Avoid high rpm , drive softly as the engine breaks in ! I’m now on 51mpg average :).
Pro tips, long press the plus shifter paddle on the steering wheel in ECO mode to activate auto Regen which is good. I gamified since my previous sonata hybrid how to drive efficient by basically trying to stay as much as I can on eco and make the engine go EV without driving slow and it’s fun on the sonata as you get the hang on how the car decides to engage pure EV mode.
BUY A REAR BUMPER PROTECTOR! I scratched the paint on mine with some luggage, they offer s touch up paint and looks like new but wish I had bought the bumper protector before lol.
@Phoenix
This is good to hear. I’ve had my hybrid limited for a month - 600 miles in and mpg is like 37 overall. Longer trips are great — like 42 or so but shorter trips are atrocious.
Zion said: @Phoenix
This is good to hear. I’ve had my hybrid limited for a month - 600 miles in and mpg is like 37 overall. Longer trips are great — like 42 or so but shorter trips are atrocious.
Yeah I was like you, after 2k miles it got better and now that I am almost at 10k I am getting 50mpg in my commute, did a full large roadtrip like 2k miles in 2 weeks and got about 46 to 48mpg between trips.
Tinting it will make it feel less like a fishbowl. I’d recommend at least 15% all around with a sun strip on the windshield (if your state isn’t anal about it)!
Fintan said:
Tinting it will make it feel less like a fishbowl. I’d recommend at least 15% all around with a sun strip on the windshield (if your state isn’t anal about it)!
They are but I am Caucasian. So, they won’t bust my balls much. Such a sad truth.
I’m not as smart as this car either and I may not be much help. But I bought the gas model a week ago and I’m averaging 30 mpg (mostly on the highway), so I’m confused as to why you’re getting less. As far as the tint goes, it will NOT void your warranty. Mine came with dark tinted windows. I’d recommend finding a reputable shop near you and using them. We have a small mom and pop shop in our area that does superb work for a low price. I wouldn’t recommend doing it yourself unless you’re experienced… Air bubbles can make a beautiful car look trashy IMO.
Fin said: @Wynn
32 with promo financing 3.49% 72 months!
Nice, that’s where I want to be.
I wanted to go the genesis route but my truck blew up unexpectedly. I needed something that day. I’m freaking glad I looked at Hyundai. I know they’re essentially the same but this freaking car is sharp. I just wish it didn’t have the logo on the hood
Nice pick! I was between the Elantra, Sonata and Camry and went with the Elantra N-line. The Sonata is definitely one of the most comfy sedans I’ve been in this year and the big screens are great