Price set for 2012 Hyundai Sonata hybrid

Hyundai will price its 2012 Sonata hybrid at $26,610, including shipping charges, the company said. That's a $55 bump from the 2011 model.

Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system will come standard on the hybrid. It includes all of the safety, service and infotainment options besides navigation, which is extra. Drivers can download the Blue Link app on their smartphones to lock and unlock the car and to control certain other functions. Blue Link includes voice activation.

New for 2012 is the Leather package ($1,500), which offers leather seats, steering wheel and shift knob; heated front and rear seats; an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, and a compass. Previously, these options were offered only on the top trim level of the Sonata.

The Ultimate package ($5,500) includes all of the options in the Leather package plus a sunroof, 17-inch wheels, navigation, a backup camera, premium sound and a few other upscale trim options.

Hyundai's 2.4-liter Atkinson-cycle engine remains the motivation for the hybrid, as does the six-speed automatic transmission. Power from the four-cylinder is rated at 166 hp, while the electric motor adds 40 hp for a total system output of 206 hp. Fuel economy is rated at 40 mpg on the highway and 35 mpg in the city.

By Jake Lingeman