IMG_4210When I first started up the 2015 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, the range read more than 600 miles. Six-hundred miles. So, I went and figured out how I could spend those miles as quick as possible.

The eco-efficiency of the Sonata Hybrid isn’t just about taking you wherever the road takes you, but where you go every day in an affordable and eco-friendly manner.

We visited my best friend up in Stanwood and didn’t even put a dent in the range of the Sonata Hybrid. What’s 47 miles out of 600? Nothing, that’s what.

The 2.0L gas direct injection engine puts out 154 horsepower with 140 of torque, but is also combined with a 38 kW electric motor that puts out an additional 51hp and 151 lb.ft of torque, making a total of 193 horsepower in this 3,500 pound vehicle.

The combination of gas engine and electric motor means that this mean green machine (no, really, the color was called Seaport Mist – an intriguing mix of white and green depending on the light) gets around 41 miles per gallon (39 city, 43 highway), making my trip to Stanwood just shy of one gallon each direction. It can hold close to 16 gallons of fuel, too… that’s alot of miles.

Starting at $26,000 for the SE (or $30,100 for the Limited, driven), the Sonata Hybrid offers the best of luxury and affordability for the eco-friendly masses.

The interior really is luxurious for the cost, too. There’s heated and ventilated seats (Limited) for both front seats and 8-way power adjustable seats for the driver, though only 6-way for the passenger (Limited). The wood-grain is in appearance only, but it still adds to the motif.

The Limited also had the Ultimate Package, coming with lane departure warnings, forward collision warnings, parking sensors, adaptive Smart Cruise Control with stop and start functionality for traffic, an upgraded audio system – to an Infinity 400 watt package with an 8-inch screen – and a panoramic sunroof that really lets in the natural light.

Aside from the trip to Stanwood, we also cruised around Seattle for three hours, drove out to the Sammamish area, and more – and I still gave the car back with mileage to spare. The tank was safe from emptiness for anything but a trip to California.

In essence, the best kind of car for commuting – comfortable, economical, financially feasible, and good for the environment.