Joining the Sonata 2.0T and the 2.4-liter model in the range, the Sonata Eco uses a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine to deliver combined EPA fuel economy of 32 mpg (28 mpg city, 38 mpg highway).
Hyundai says that figure is segment-leading for a non-hybrid, mid-size sedan, and it beats the 2.4-liter car by 3 mpg overall. That also puts it 3 mpg above the 1.6-liter turbocharged Ford Fusion--its closest on-paper competitor.
The car's new engine produces 177 horsepower and 195 pounds-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, an option not found in any comparable mid-size sedan.
In terms of equipment, the new Eco matches that of the Sonata in SE trim. To that, Eco models add a chrome grille, mirror-mounted turn signals, auto headlights, a ten-way adjustable power driver seat, a five-inch color touchscreen with backup camera and Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system.
MORE: 2015 Hyundai Sonata: Redesigned Sedan Debuts In New York (Photos)
Pricing begins at $24,085, including a mandatory $810 destination charge.
To that, you can add the car's sole option--a $4,100 Technology Package. Tick that particular option box and high-tech features like blind spot detection, hands-free trunk opening, an eight-inch nav screen, Dimension premium audio and keyless entry join the equipment list--along with heated leather seats, and a leather wheel and shift knob.
What the new 1.6 turbo Sonata can't do is match the gas mileage of the 2014 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.
At 38 mpg combined (36 mpg city, 40 mpg highway) it's not hugely more efficient and it costs a little more too--but Hyundai still hasn't announced details of its replacement just yet.
The Hybrid's replacement is expected to debut at a later date, so we'll be keen to see what improvements it offers over the outgoing car. In the meantime, you'll have to do your hybrid shopping elsewhere.
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