mmarshall

That one looks like the one I posted.....the one meowcat complained about.

bagwell

I'd take the Hybrid..........for $20K tops....

IS-SV

Some here will have differences in grill preferences (myself included after seeing both cars side-by-side in person), but none of this will probably matter when it hits the market.

Note:
Hyundai has set its hybrid apart from conventional models with an all-new front fascia. However, the changes go well beyond the new grille and headlights. The new wheels combine with extended rocker panels to improve airflow across the flanks. At the back end, the bumper cover has been reshaped with sharp creases at the corners to control the air coming off and minimize drag, and there are set of really interesting taillamps with a sort of neutron molecule-like quality to them. The body alterations drops the hybrid's projected drag coefficient from the standard Sonata's already slippery 0.28 to just 0.25.

mmarshall

Even if it's somewhat over 20K, as it's likely to be (and has a fish-grille), it's still a lot of car for the money. Camry Hybrids can run over 30K.

Canesguy

It's got a face, like a Mazda .

IS-SV

Yes, we have a Mazda owner here that put in his 2 cents.

I8ABMR

It doesnt have a smiley face though. Mazdas design is weird. This just look like a fish with its mouth open

mmarshall

Why shouldn't he? Mazda makes some respectable vehicles (I've owned 3 of them, brand-new, myself). So does Hyundai.

IS-SV

He was talking about the grill, not whether or not they were acceptable cars.

mmarshall

To be honest, with what I've seen with the grilles on a lot of new vehicles, almost nothing surprises me anymore.

To some extent, it's the 1950's all over again (only this time in plastic, not metal). Like that period, the sky seems to be the limit now for stylists.

IS-SV

I tend to agree, some of the grills are a bit much and have nothing to do with functional aerodynamics or engine cooling/intake (since most of that functional intake surface area is below the bumper line). Fortunately the engineers keep them from doing grills that are total nonsense for the reasons mentioned, (plus ped safety regs in some Euro countries, which will probably impact directly or indirectly all cars sold in the major markets eventually)

On the topic of the hybrid Sonata, despite the grill when has been integrated as part of a improved aero design, IMO this car will continue the success of the gasser 2011 Sonata. I know a soon to be successful car when I see it.