Noteworthy: Hyundai forges their own path in hybrids

Hyundai has been stunning the US auto market by producing more and more reliable vehicles at lower than average prices. They're effectively chipping away at the negative stigma many consumers harbor towards the brand. Following this trend Hyundai recently created the 2011 Sonata Hybrid, a vehicle that makes you feel as good as it looks.

The South Korean automaker decided not to license Toyota's hybrid technology (as several other auto manufacturers are) but instead to create their own unique hybrid system using smaller and lighter nickel-metal hydride batteries.

A 40-hp electric motor sits between the engine and the transmission in place of a torque converter giving the hybrid a combined system output of 209 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. Surprisingly the Sonata can run solely on the electric motor at speeds up to 62mph.

The leather laden interior is sleek and the center console offers enough gadgets and gizmos to keep even the most ADHD driver occupied.

Look out for the new Sonata late this year.
The numbers:
Price: $27,500
Zero to 60 mph: 9.2 sec
Top speed (governor limited): 123 mph
EPA city/highway driving: 37/40 mpg

-Nicho