[AutoGuide.com]

For years Toyota has been the benchmark for gas-electric vehicles. Utter the word “hybrid” and the Prius immediately comes to mind. Toyota’s impressive technology has also migrated successfully to several other models in its stable.

Other automakers, however, seem to stumble and fail when attempting to reach up to Toyota’s example; the Ford Fusion fails miserably in achieving its claimed 47 mpg rating in daily driving, and last year’s Sonata Hybrid lacked refinement.

But it seems like Hyundai isn’t easily deterred, as the new 2013 model features serious under-the-hood upgrades and modifications that make it more than just a rival to the Toyota hybrids, but a rival for the lead in its segment.

Read AutoGuide.com's full review of the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.