Seems like a real person to me, seems like someone who doesn't regularly post on forums or social media and posted a question and moved on. When he sees some sort of notification in his face that he has replies he will come back. Or Maybe not.

 

Thanks everyone your replies.

Since this is my first Turbo I am continually surprised at the delay, the rpms will go sky high on the tachometer and the car hesitates to move. There is a left turn onto my street where I have to let the Sonata "coast" into the turn then when the car is straight, I start to feather the accelerator pedal to get going. Maybe other turbos handle the "lag" better, but like I said, I haven't figured this Sonata's turbo out - meaning how to drive it even after 3 years of ownership. Same thing from a dead stop. Engine roars, rpms scream, then the car moves. My research shows that the typical hybrid doesn't have this issue since the electric motors respond instantly. Other than that, the Sonta is a great car, it's fast on a straightaway and good on fuel.

 

The reason I joined this forum is that it was the number one highest rated Lexus forum on the Internet.

I am looking at the 2026 NX 350 Hybrid. I've bought many cars in my life, but I've never joined a forum as part of the process of researching. So, I did it this time. The forums are places where people can speak their minds about their cars and that is what I wanted to learn. How do you feel about your cars and Lexus as a company?

After I joined here, I learned of another manufacturer that is offering, new for 2026 a vehicle somewhat similar to the NX but in a plug-in hybrid model with an awesome electric only range. Intrigued, I have been putting my energy into researching that car. I could save at least 10 grand with this new option. So, my enthusiasm for the Lexus waned a bit. If I caused anyone any discomfort here, I apologize and this post should reflect my sincerity to you as neighbors. The Lexus is still on my list but the Plug in option and 10 grand less is too great to pass by. I get notifications and appreciate your patience and kindness.

Sincerely
David in South Carolina

 

Thanks mmarshall

 

Thanks Motorola,

You are correct. When I first considered Lexus, I started looking at the IS 350 and the ES 350. I've also considered the RX. I knew that the IS 350 would be a fun rear wheel car to drive. Of course, when I saw the NX hybrid, I was very impressed. Especially the cargo capacity and the fold down rear seats. Above all the gas mileage.

It is my understanding that power to the wheels would be instant in a hybrid vehicle due to the electric motors.

 

It's a car. You shouldn't need to "figure out" how to drive it. Have you taken it to the dealer to have them check out if something is wrong?

 

I asked Microsoft Copilot:

🚗 Short answer

Yes. Many owners report that the 2023 Sonata Limited’s 1.6‑liter turbo engine does exhibit noticeable turbo lag and delayed throttle response, especially from very low speeds. This is consistent with your own experience.

🔍 What the evidence shows

From owner reports, the most common complaint is exactly what you described:

• Press the accelerator at 1–3 mph
  
• Engine revs jump
  
• The car hesitates before actually moving
  

One owner describes it this way:
“Every time I accelerate from a slow speed the engine will rev up thousands of RPMs then the car will actually move… I am constantly frustrated with this Turbo engine/transmission design.”
This is classic turbo lag combined with Hyundai’s transmission tuning, which prioritizes fuel economy and smoothness over immediate response.

📌 Why it happens

The 1.6T in the Sonata Limited is tuned for efficiency, not performance. That means:

• A small turbo that needs a moment to spool
  
• A transmission programmed to upshift early
  
• A throttle map that softens initial response
  

The result is a slight delay when you ask for power from a near‑idle roll.

🧭 How this compares to other trims

• Sonata N‑Line (2.5T): Much less lag, much stronger response
  
• Sonata Hybrid: No turbo lag at all (electric motor fills the gap)
  
• Toyota/Lexus hybrids: Also no lag, but as you’ve noticed, their lane‑centering doesn’t match what you like in the Sonata
  

🪶 Your experience fits the pattern

You’ve mentioned before that your Sonata’s turbo lag is one of the reasons you’re considering a change. The data backs up your impression — you’re not imagining it, and it’s not a defect. It’s simply how Hyundai tuned this engine/transmission pairing.

If you want, I can help you compare alternatives that keep the smooth, peaceful driving feel you value while avoiding turbo lag altogether.

 

Which vehicle is this plug in hybrid you are interested in?

For the turbo in the Sonata, I wouldn't let that sour you on turbo engines. Your Sonata has an extremely small 4 cyl engine, and thats why you have that turbo lag. In a better car with a bigger engine you wouldn't have that.

 

Thanks SW17LS,

The 2026 Toyota Rav4 XSE comes with a plugin hybrid and the same reliable engine that its predecessors have had. It's been stated that it may have 50 miles of electric on a full charge. Most of my driving is less than 50 miles a day with a few highway trips in a year. I don't know if the production model will have this, but I saw one demonstration of recording capability of all 4 cameras. Fold down rear seats and a non turbo engine :-). MPGs in the 40s around town or something like that. Fully loaded around 50k MSRP. To me, it's a good-looking vehicle. Wireless CarPlay too would be an upgrade. Lots of storage cubbies for the driver and passenger.

It's my understanding that they should be arriving in showrooms soon.

What do you think about the way Toyota is going with the Rav4?

Dave

 

The PHEV Rav 4 is nothing new, its been out for a while its just been refreshed for this model year. Lexus is made by Toyota, the NX is the Lexus version of the Rav 4.

If that works for you a PHEV Rav 4 is a great option. Personally I would pay the extra to get the NX.

 

Yup, I should think carefully at this point. Thanks for your input. :-)

 

I recently had a ‘23 RAV4 plug in and it was a great vehicle. My sister has a ‘23 Lexus NX 350 F sport. Although both vehicles are very similar there’s some differences.

The NX has nicer interior
RAV4 has more buttons
NX has more function embedded in the screen
The RAV4 has more interior space
The NX is a quieter drive (less road noise)
RAV4 comes with a spare tire
NX comes with runflats
RAV4 takes regular gas
NX calls for premium
NX is about $15k or so more depending on trim

Dealership provided full tank of gas last me 3,300 miles. 2nd tank last me 6,500 miles.

My sister gets 300ish miles on tank of gas. I’ve filled up her car a few times from E. She averages low 20mpg. She has led foot and idles quite bit.

 

Thank you BayeauxLex,

This is very helpful :-)

Dave

 

hey Dave, merry christmas… so many options for you.

yes the 1.6T is rather a tiny engine and as copilot says, optimized for economy not get up and go.



my sister (in england) just got a kia sportage hybrid and absolutely loves it. her husband got the cousin version, hyundai tucson, and he loves his too.

 

Hey bitkahuna,

Thanks for your reply. Merry Christmas to you also.

:-)