Are new Hyundai Sonata models through the years known to be good cars? From reliability to resale value, the Hyundai Sonata stands out with impressive performance, comfortable interiors, and advanced safety features.
Still, if you're questioning just how or why the latest entry-or even a used Hyundai Sonata-might be worth a look or even a test drive, a rundown of its features and benefits helps to decide. In this article, we'll cover all these aspects to help you determine if the Sonata is the right car for you.
Quick Facts on What Makes the Hyundai Sonata a Good Car
- The Hyundai Sonata offers a wide range of powerful and efficient engine options, with standout choices like the Sonata N Line's 290 horsepower engine and the Hybrid's impressive fuel economy.
- The turbocharged 2.5L engine in the Sonata N Line offers a responsive 290 horsepower.
- Though the turbocharged 1.6L engine has been retired, used Sonata models with this engine are still available; ask a sales advisor!
- A Sonata Hybrid, with a dependable 2.0L engine offers fuel savings and reduced emissions, boasting up to 51 MPG on the highway.
- If you're not looking for a hybrid, the base engine is quite capable, boasting EPA estimates of 25 MPG city and 34 MPG highway.
- N Line models balance performance with good efficiency, boasting an estimated 23 MPG city and 32 MPG highway.
- Boasting the IIHS Top Safety Pick the Sonata is a safe and roadworthy option with great features further enhancing safety.
- The Hyundai Sonata scores an 81/100 to 82/100 predicted reliability score on J.D. Power in recent years.
- The Sonata is backed by its OEM in the form of the Hyundai warranty, also known as America's Best Warranty, which includes a 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty, a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty-and more.
Evaluating Hyundai Sonata's Performance
When it comes to performance, the Hyundai Sonata doesn't shy away from flexing its muscles on the road. With a range of engine options and a fine-tuned transmission system, this midsize sedan offers a driving experience that's both exhilarating and efficient-making it a sportier alternative to Hyundai's best family cars.
The question worth asking is-does the Sonata have what it takes to be a reliable car and stand up to rivals like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry? The Hyundai Sonata stands out as a prime example of how Hyundai matches up to competitors like Honda.
With its impressive blend of performance, safety features, and reliability, the Sonata proves that in the matter of Honda vs Hyundai, Hyundai can deliver a driving experience that rivals the best in the industry.
Engine Options and Powertrains
Under the hood, the Sonata boasts a lineup of powertrain options that cater to different driving preferences. The base 2.0L 4-cylinder engine provides a solid foundation with 191 horsepower, while the turbocharged 2.5L engine in the Sonata N Line takes the thrill to the next level with a robust 290 horsepower.
Though the turbocharged 1.6L engine has been retired, the Sonata Hybrid trim offers an eco-friendly 2.0-liter hybrid engine that doesn't skimp on performance. Whether you're cruising the city streets or powering through a long road trip, there's a Sonata to suit your journey.
Our used Hyundai inventory includes a variety of used Sonatas featuring older 1.6L engine specifications, providing budget-friendly options for those seeking reliable performance without the new-car price tag. These models offer a great balance of efficiency and power, ensuring you can find a Sonata that fits your driving needs and budget.
Transmission and Driving Experience
The Sonata's 8-speed automatic transmission is a smooth operator, ensuring seamless gear changes and a responsive ride. This front-wheel-drive sedan is designed to absorb road irregularities, making your drive as tranquil as it is enjoyable.
With additional features like shift paddles and a sporty steering wheel, the Sonata appeals to those who appreciate a touch of sportiness in their daily commute.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is where the Sonata truly shines, particularly in its hybrid form, offering dozens of miles per gallon on the highway. If you're not looking for a hybrid, the base engine is quite capable, boasting EPA estimates of 25 MPG city and 34 MPG highway. This makes it a fuel-efficient choice for drivers looking to save on gas and upfront costs that hybrid versions come with.
For those seeking a responsive kind of power, the N Line models balance performance with reasonable efficiency, boasting an estimated 23 MPG city and 32 MPG highway.
Interior Comfort and Features
The Sonata's cabin exemplifies comfort and style, crafted with attention to detail and fitted with the latest tech. From the spacious cabin to the Sonata's interior quality and materials, Hyundai has put in the work to ensure passengers are enveloped in comfort, whether they're on a quick grocery run or a cross-country adventure.
Spacious Cabin and Seating
Space is a luxury, and the Hyundai Sonata offers it in abundance. With a generous passenger volume of 04.4 cubic feet, the Sonata makes sure that everyone, from the driver to the rear-seat passengers, has plenty of room to stretch out. While the seats are firm, providing ample support, some may seek maximum comfort in higher trims.
Infotainment System and Connectivity
Technology lovers will appreciate the Sonata's infotainment system, which comes with a responsive 8-inch touch screen on the base trim and a larger 12.3-inch display on higher trims like the N Line for all your connectivity needs. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay come standard, ensuring your favorite apps are always within reach.
Plus, with the Limited trim and above, you get to hear a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, perfect for audiophiles who want to immerse themselves in your favorite soundscapes.
Interior Quality and Materials
The latest Sonata sports a refreshed interior that exudes a modern and upscale vibe. The redesigned steering wheel and dashboard, the center console with added comfort, and the high-quality materials throughout the cabin all make for a premium driving experience.
And with that Limited trim, you'll even find luxurious touches like leather seating surfaces and ambient lighting, offering a customizable atmosphere to match your mood.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Safety is a top priority for any driver, and the Hyundai Sonata takes it seriously with a comprehensive suite of safety features and driver assistance technologies. Boasting the IIHS Top Safety Pick and multiple advanced features, the Sonata works hard to protect you and your loved ones on every journey.
How does its safety rating stack up against other midsize sedans, and what does it offer in terms of Hyundai Sonata reliability?
Standard Safety Features
Every journey in the Sonata gets support from an array of standard safety features. Smart cruise control, also known as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring are just the beginning.
The forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection exemplifies Hyundai's commitment to safety, constantly scanning the road ahead and ready to act in critical situations. Additionally, the rear cross traffic warning system enhances the overall safety experience for drivers.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
Hyundai's SmartSense is easy to use, raising the Sonata's safety profile with advanced radar and sonar technology that act as vigilant co-pilots when you're cruising at high speeds. These intelligent systems extend their protection to scenarios like backing out of a parking space or changing lanes, ensuring you're alerted to potential hazards around you.
Safety Ratings and Reliability
The new Hyundai Sonata's impressive overall five-star safety rating, coupled with an 81/100 to 82/100 predicted reliability score on J.D. Power in recent years, speaks volumes about its commitment to passenger protection. This model excels with almost all good ratings in side crash tests, ensuring you can leave your collision worries behind.
Pricing and Value for Money
Value for money can be an important factor when purchasing a car, and the Hyundai Sonata stands tall with competitive pricing and a range of trims that cater to various budgets and preferences. How does it compare in terms of starting price and the cost of ownership to its competitors in the midsize sedan market? It's time to analyze the numbers and assess if the Sonata provides the value you deserve.
Starting Price and Trim Levels
The new Hyundai Sonata starts at a reasonable $29,200 or so, offering a compelling entry point into the world of midsize sedans. As you climb the trim levels, you'll find the SEL Plus and N Line offering more features and performance, culminating in the fully loaded Limited trim at just over $37,000. Try pre-qualifying for a car loan to get into a Sonata for less upfront!
Getting pre-approved for financing can give you a clear understanding of your budget, allowing you to confidently choose the Hyundai Sonata trim that fits your financial situation. This step not only streamlines the purchasing process but also provides peace of mind by setting realistic expectations for your investment.
Cost of Ownership
Owning a Sonata goes beyond the initial purchase price. Insuring and maintaining this reliable car involves considering factors like insurance type, driving record, and maintenance schedules. While these ongoing costs can vary, owners can take comfort in the Sonata's reputation for fuel economy and Hyundai's famous warranty program, which help keep ownership costs in check.
Comparison with Competitors
When pitted against rivals like the athletic Honda Accord, the Sonata holds its own with a comfortable and composed ride. While it may not be the most dynamic in its class, the Sonata's balance of features, comfort, and value makes it a strong contender that's worth considering alongside other popular midsize sedans.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Sonata's performance is in its 0-60 mph acceleration time, with the new Sonata N Line achieving an impressive 5.6 seconds, showcasing its ability to deliver quick and responsive power when needed in performance trims.
Hyundai Sonata Models and Trims
The Hyundai Sonata's appeal spans a diverse model lineup, catering to a wide range of drivers with different needs and preferences. From the base SE to the spirited N Line, each trim offers a unique blend of features and performance. What unique features does each model offer, and how do they enhance the driving experience? A look at Sonata's trim levels highlights their unique characteristics.
Overview of Available Trims
Starting with the SE trim, the Sonata provides an affordable yet feature-rich entry into the lineup. The SEL trim ups the ante with creature comforts like heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control, making it a popular choice for those seeking both value and convenience.
For those who demand more, the SEL Plus and N Line trims inject a dose of luxury and performance into the mix. The SEL Plus trim enhances the driving experience with features like a panoramic sunroof and wireless charging, while the N Line takes it further with sport-tuned suspension and a turbocharged engine for those who crave a more exhilarating ride.
Features by Trim Level
Each trim level of the Sonata is tailored to specific tastes and needs. The SEL Hybrid trim, for example, adds eco-friendly features like a Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch and wireless device charging, while the N Line trim offers sport front seats with microfiber inserts for a more athletic feel.
The noteworthy Limited trim comes with myriad premium features, ensuring every drive is as comfortable as it is safe.
Hybrid and N Line Models
For those with environmental concerns or a thirst for performance, a new Sonata Hybrid or N Line models offer two very distinct paths. The N Line model is all about exhilaration and a still-impressive 27 MPG, sporting a 290 horsepower 2.5 L engine and a host of sport-tuned features for an invigorating driving experience.
The Hybrid, even a used Sonata Hybrid, with a dependable 2.0L engine is your ticket to impressive fuel savings and reduced emissions, boasting up to 51 MPG on the highway. This rate makes it one of the most efficient options in the midsize sedan category. Additionally, the hybrid model's combined fuel economy of 47 MPG ensures you'll spend less time at the pump and more time enjoying the drive.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
- 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty
- 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty
- 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty
- 5-year/unlimited-mile 24-hour roadside assistance
Benefits of Getting Maintenance Done at Our Dealership
Choosing to get your scheduled service and maintenance done at our dealership ensures that your Hyundai Sonata receives expert care from certified technicians who know your vehicle inside and out. Additionally, you'll enjoy the convenience and peace of mind that comes with using genuine Hyundai parts and the latest diagnostic equipment, keeping your Sonata running smoothly and efficiently.
Complimentary Maintenance
To sweeten the deal, Hyundai includes a complimentary maintenance program for the Sonata, covering oil changes, oil filter changes, and tire rotations for 3 years or 36,000 miles. This program, which is a Hyundai's confidence in their vehicle's reliability, ensures that maintaining your Sonata is as hassle-free as possible. Ask our service department for details about our participation in this program!
Extended Warranty Options
For those who want the best care, Imperial Valley Hyundai integrates the warranty options under the Hyundai Assurance. You can take advantage of the program's benefits according to your specific needs from Car Care Express to Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance-extending the life of your Sonata and ensuring it remains in top condition.
Book a Test Drive at Imperial Valley Hyundai
We've gone through it all. Has the Sonata competed with other vehicles in the family, approaching Hyundai Tucson's good reputation? Our sales advisors certainly think so.
With its diverse range of trims, generous warranty through our OEM, and commitment to value, the Sonata stands ready to meet the needs of modern families and thrill-seekers alike. If you're in the market for a ride that will elevate your driving experience for a great price, the Sonata might just be the perfect match.
Nothing can replace the experience of driving the Hyundai Sonata firsthand to truly understand its appeal. At Imperial Valley Hyundai, our hassle-free test drive booking and customizable contact preferences cater to your needs. With a wide selection of models and features on offer, our team is committed to delivering transparent pricing and superior service throughout your car buying journey.
