Overview & Reviews

The Hyundai Sonata is a comfortable and likable midsize sedan that proves Hyundai can build cars that are not just easy on the pocketbook, but easy to live with as well. Like most vehicles in the midsize sedan class, the Sonata offers front-wheel drive, numerous safety features and a choice of trim levels that include sporty and plush variants. Setting the Sonata apart, however, is Hyundai's lower pricing and outstanding warranty coverage.

For the most part, the Sonata has kept getting better. The current model, in particular, is the most competitive to date. In addition to the strong value proposition, this Hyundai adds a few things previously not seen in this conservative nameplate -- namely, daring styling and sporty driving dynamics. Newer pre-owned Sonatas are also a solid choice, but models prior to 2006 remain a risky used-car proposition.

Current Hyundai Sonata
Although it's classified as a full-size family sedan by the EPA, the Hyundai Sonata still competes in the midsize segment. It's available in GLS, SE and Limited trim levels. Even the base car comes well equipped, while the SE features sporty suspension tuning and the Limited pampers its passengers with more luxurious features.

The standard engine on every Sonata trim level is a 2.4-liter direct-injected inline four-cylinder rated at 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-exhaust SE with the same engine makes 192 hp and 181 lb-ft. A 2.0-liter turbocharged engine generating 274 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque is available on SE and Limited models. All Sonatas come with a six-speed automatic as standard.

Whether serving family car or commuter car duty, the Hyundai Sonata is a nice place to be thanks to its spacious cabin, comfortable seating, solid build quality and quiet highway ride. In reviews we've found that the Sonata provides spirited acceleration as well as responsive handling, with a slightly firm but still comfortable ride. Fuel mileage is also impressive, with 30 mpg being a realistic number for conservative drivers in mixed conditions. Our only notable gripes concern the relative lack of rear seat headroom for adults and a somewhat rough ride for the SE model. Overall the Sonata is rather impressive and deserves serious consideration from those shopping for a family sedan.

Used Hyundai Sonata Models
The current Hyundai Sonata represents the fifth generation in the car's lineage, and was introduced in the 2011 model year. That following year, the Sonata picked up the Blue Link telematics service and a higher-resolution navigation system display. A manual transmission was available for the Sonata GLS for these first two years, but was discontinued after that.

These Sonatas produced prior to 2014 differ in a number of minor ways. Styling was ever so slightly different, while they lack standard driver-selectable steering effort and the availability of certain features like xenon headlights and a blind-spot monitoring system. Also, the 2.4-liter engine made 198 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque (200 hp and 186 lb-ft for the SE) versus the current car's somewhat lower ratings.

The previous, fourth-generation Hyundai Sonata was produced from 2006-'10 and is really the only other version worth considering as a used Sonata. Initially, three trim levels were offered: GL, GLS and LX. The sophomore year saw a shuffling of the trim levels to the current format. Most notably, the sporty SE version debuted, wearing 17-inch alloy wheels and foglights.

Originally, the 2.4-liter four-cylinder produced 162 hp and was standard on the GL and GLS trims. A five-speed manual was standard (GL only for 2006) and a four-speed automatic was optional with this engine. Optional on the GLS and standard on the LX, SE and Limited was a 235-hp version of the 3.3-liter V6, matched to a five-speed automatic transmission. For 2008, the four-cylinder became standard on all trim levels and the V6 became optional. That year also saw a few more standard features added to the SE and Limited trims.

The biggest changes occurred in 2009 when engine outputs were increased (175 hp for the inline-4 and 249 hp for the V6) and the interior was spiffed up with a new dash and higher-quality materials. There were also two notable additions to the features lists -- a standard auxiliary audio jack and an optional touchscreen navigation system.

Prior to that, the cabin had respectable build and materials quality along with a precise feel to the controls. But it wasn't nearly as top-notch and had odd placement of the audio and climate controls -- the former was placed too high and the latter too low. Beyond that, the spacious cabin remained unchanged, and although the exterior had a few nips here and tucks there, you'd be hard-pressed to tell the difference between Sonatas of this generation.

At the time, we found that the fourth-generation Hyundai Sonata prioritized ride comfort over precise handling. It smothered bumps well and delivered a luscious highway ride, but with its significant body roll and vague steering, it wasn't particularly fun to drive.

Power from the efficient four-cylinder engine was competitive, and although the V6 wasn't quite as potent as those in rival sedans, it still got the job done while returning good fuel economy. Inside, soft, high-quality plastics were plentiful, and the overall design was eye-pleasing.

Pre-2006 Sonatas remain a risky used-car proposition even though depreciation means they can be found at a bargain-basement price. Only in recent years have we seen the kind of build quality and structural integrity that might portend long-term durability.

Nevertheless, the previous (third) generation Hyundai Sonata was originally introduced for 1999 with a vastly improved appearance, far better engines and significant improvements made in noise and ride quality versus its lamentable predecessors. The base car featured a 138-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder and the GLS had a 159-hp 2.5-liter V6. These numbers may be different from what you'll find elsewhere, since Hyundai misstated its horsepower ratings prior to 2002, giving the Sonata 11 more horses than it actually had. As such, you'd be best to stick with Sonatas from 2002 or later, which were characterized by even nicer styling, a better interior and a legitimately more potent V6.

The second-generation Sonata was introduced for 1995 and offered improved fit and finish compared to its predecessor, but that's not saying much. It now had dual airbags, but no more power under the hood. For instance, the V6 only produced 5 more horses than the four-cylinder. For 1997, the Sonata was restyled dramatically, but not necessarily for the better. All in all, we'd avoid this car.

The same goes for the original Hyundai Sonata, first launched in 1989 to give Hyundai a player in the midsize family sedan game. Aggressively priced but sloppily built and saddled with weak, unrefined powertrains, the boxy first-generation Sonata did little to change the public's perception of Hyundai cars as cheap in more ways than price.

User Reviews:

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  Hyundai has outdone Japan - 2002 Hyundai Sonata
  By Chris Carroll - February 18 - 11:03 am

  Bought this used (1 yr old) from dealer (pgm car) with 11K miles. My wife and I have put 35K on is since, and this car has not needed to see the dealer since, with the exception of 1 recall. Other than regular maintenance, this car has needed nothing, and still looks and runs like new. The car has depreciated less than $3,000 in the 3 years weve owned it, and now Im shopping for one for my son. If you want a good, stylish, reliable and economic car, the Sonata should be your first choice.

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  Utterly amazing - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By JC1212 - February 18 - 2:00 am

  I initially wasnt even going to look at the Hyundais when I was going to buy either a Toyota Camry or a Honda Accord. However, when I read in Consumers reports that the Sonata had predicted above average reliability, much better than the new Camry, and slightly lower than the Honda, I had to take a look. And I walked out with a new car. After test driving the Honda and the Toyota, I couldnt believe the difference. For the same price as the base Honda/Toyota, I was getting a V6, leather interior, sunroof, 4 wheel disc brakes, better warrenty, amazing stereo - the best I have seen in any production car, etc.

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  Review of 2004 Hyundai Sonata V6 GLS - 2004 Hyundai Sonata
  By myprettycar - February 16 - 11:17 pm

  This is a great car. I have not had any issues with this automobile except that ever since Ive owned the car - since day one I have experienced severe sacroiliac pain because the seat is low and I twist to get out of the car. The seats are pretty firm too. That took some getting used to. I get many compliments on the car and it has been a good purchase except for the back pain issue.

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  Better than I Could Have Imagined!!! - 2015 Hyundai Sonata
  By Stan Morris - February 16 - 4:45 am

  Id like to make this review brief as possible, but I know thats not going to happen. I am so blown away by this vehicle that I tell everyone who comments on it that its now not just the best car Ive ever owned, its the only car to get in my mind(regarding the options/performance/warranty/reliability you get for the money). If you want to drop $70k on a vehicle with the same options and a little more pep, more power to you(literally). I own a Sonata Ltd with the Ultimate Package, and after driving in the high end Infinity/Audi/BMW, this vehicle is just as comparable in regards to the luxurious feel and amenities. From the Xenon headlights, LED running lights and LED interior lights(so crisp), to the LED taillights, to the sophisticated new styling, this car is the epitome of high class without the high class cost. The smart cruise, which is one of my favorite features, works beautifully and I use it frequently when on a long commute. Also, have you ever been trying to follow a friend or family member on the highway or interstate for a long commute and cant seem to get your cruise control set just right and either slowly gain or lose distance between them? Problem solved! With the smart cruise I just set my cruise speed for higher than I know the car in front of me will go, and simply stay behind them. If they slow, the car slows. If they speed up, the car speeds up. Even better, I can choose if I want to be a car length behind them or a few car lengths behind them. I have not tested it in city traffic, as I do not live in a big enough city, but I could see how it would come in handy(strike that, become a valued asset and seen as a necessity) when in slow moving or quick stop and go traffic. The Xenon headlights and LED taillights are truly remarkable in both functionality and in style. My wife told me she had to drive the vehicle so I could see the lights from the outside, and I was more than impressed. When seeing this vehicle traveling down the road at night you expect to see a familiar luxury emblem on the front, not the ever increasingly popular "H". I currently have my phone hooked up with the "Android Auto", and also have the BlueLink and Bluetooth set up on the car and all flawlessly perform as they should. I was impressed with all of those "little features" that the Android Auto provides and couldnt be happier with that addition. My only complaint, which cant be stuck on just the Sonata, is the visibility. My previous vehicle was a Navigator, and comparatively the visibility felt like it was cut in half. With that said, in all cars visibility has been cut down the same, so again this isnt just Hyundai. One positive note is that the blind spot works beautifully and it has saved me from cutting into a car on multiple occasions. On a side note, the blind spot has an ability to judge the speed of the car behind you, so if said vehicle is coming up really fast the blind spot will adjust to warn you earlier, as opposed to other blind spot systems that simply warn you once the vehicle trips the sensor. I suppose the only real downfall are the leather seats. They are premium leather, but not as soft as the napa leather that Ive enjoyed in the past. That being said, it seems like these seats are more durable and will hold up better. Additionally, the heated and cooled seats work beautifully, and Ive gotten multiple comments on the heated seats in the back. Alright, I could continue on and on about this car, but it feels like Im just going through the options package and commenting on how great it is, so you could just look at the package and know that all of it is exceptional. I purchased the extended warranty that covers bumper to bumper, excluding bumpers :-), for 10 years/100,000 miles, which I would suggest wholly to anyone considering this vehicle.

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  Great Value - 2011 Hyundai Sonata
  By Kathy - February 15 - 5:30 pm

  I purchased my car in May and so far have no complaints. I have been accustomed to driving higher end cars, but have to admit that for the money spent on the Sonata vs. more expensive makes/models, in my opinion the Sonata is the best bang for the buck! Good gas mileage, plenty of pep, great looks, lots of bells and whistles. Overall a fantastic car for the money.

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  love my baby - 2007 Hyundai Sonata
  By flyinfrank - February 14 - 11:03 am

  Ive been in the automotive industry for over 25 years and the Hyundai has come a loooong way since its inception when i test drove this car i was totally impressed and bought my baby and im glad i did Im a big guy and find it a little cramped on long drives which i do daily the winshield post kind of creates a blind spot the drivers seat could be repositioned needs more leg room the outside mirrors should also be collasable it has great back seat space and plenty of trunk space it drives incredibly well very smooth love the power of v-6 it seems to have some shifting issues not smooth all times the sound system is great love the heated seats the climate control system lacks some

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  New 2014 SE 2.0T 1k miles in - 2014 Hyundai Sonata
  By nirvana4all - February 13 - 8:12 pm

  I have had the car now for just under 1k miles. I do not see much difference with the steering wheel comfort/sport settings. At 62" it has plenty of room for me even with the sunroof. Back up camera is good, power is nice, averaging 26 MPG total. Was able to use Boostup website to get additional $500 off for a total cost for the 2014 Premium package SE 2.0T at $26885 before tax, fees, etc. Felt like amazing deal to me.

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  2013 Sonata Bluetooth System - 2013 Hyundai Sonata
  By lcolby - February 11 - 12:21 am

  do not purchase this vehicle if you want a good working bluetooth system. Upon our third complaint I receive a letter from Hyundai saying, "it is considered normal operation for the incoming call volume to be quieter than the audio level setting and to adjust the volume on certain calls". That nice, except you cannot hear the incoming call. two other comments off their letter: We are sometimes unable to produce an automobile with the features and materials that will satisfy or appeal to all of our customers. If you prefer, you are more than welcome to contact the Highway Safety Association and report the concern to the Consumer Protection Agency.

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  A pleasant surprise - 2005 Hyundai Sonata
  By Jack S. - February 10 - 6:40 pm

  After purchasing my 1st Hyundai in April 2005 it seems that every time I use my vehicle I find a new pleasant surprise. The power in this sedan is deceptive, I got more then I expected out of the 2.7L 6 Cyl. engine. My prior car was a Pontiac Bonneville and I would rate the Hyndai on par for comfort. In the sound system it was super. I keep my cars clean and have received a multitude of compliments for this Black (Ebony) and Charcoal interior. Last but far from least is the safety factor which I have researched and found to be exceptional. If Hyundai continues to build cars in this fasion, the have a repeat buyer with me. Good job guys !

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  steering problem! - 2013 Hyundai Sonata
  By ni55 - February 8 - 3:29 am

  when I first got the car I loved it. that was before I went on the highway. on the highway the car is dangerous!! not safe! steering is very sensitive and it is hard to keep the car in the lane. bad design and im very surprised that no one crushed this car on the highway yes and there is not a recall. after I discover the problem I called the sales person and she told me that it is normal, bc of the electric steering power...what kind of nonsenses is this? I drove Hondas for the last 15 years but fell in love with this car on the test drive and the price was great. so for now I will say. great city car and thats it!!