Hyundai Sonata 2.0T Returns 34 MPG Highway

With a 274-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine under the hood, the new 2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0 Turbo is no slouch when it comes to power. In fact, this four-cylinder will move the midsize sedan from 0-60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. But despite packing plenty of sportiness, the Sonata 2.0T is also expected to boast 22 miles per gallon city and 34 mpg on the highway. These mileage figures certainly belie its turbocharged might, offering a perfect balance of performance and efficiency.

Now with the Sonata 2.0T just a few months away from showrooms, the initial first drives and reviews are beginning to trickle in and the verdict is (not surprisingly) positive. Regarding the powerplant under the hood, Autoblog said that “the Theta II turbo positively obliterates its rivals in this category, from the 220-hp 2.0T Buick Regal (110 hp/liter) to the 263-hp Ford Fusion V6 (75.1/liter) and everything from Japan Inc. – regardless of their cylinder counts. And it does so while sipping regular fuel. Outsmart and outplay? Check.”

There also seems to be plenty of positives compared to the non-turbo Sonata. In fact, the folks at The Car Connection say that “the turbo spooled to life quickly, and maintained solid torque through the makeshift esses Hyundai’s engineers had built into a test loop for our group to sample. The ample power boost is clear, especially when contrasted with the Hybrid version. The Sonata’s stiff ride also was clear, and feels a little more appropriate in this edition.”

Stay tuned for more on the expanding Sonata lineup.