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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  Great Car for Money - 2007 Hyundai Sonata
  By hyundai2 - August 11 - 11:36 am

  This is second Sonata owned. Previous 2005 model. Great ride and handling. New saftey features found in more expensive cars. Sound system upgraded.

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  Awesome deal! - 2009 Hyundai Sonata
  By sjacob - August 10 - 4:36 pm

  I got my sonata about 7 months ago and have approx 12000 miles on it and not one single complaint! Car is responsive, great in the rain/snow, comfortable on long trips and all around practical everyday driver! Got it during the cash for clunkers deal, and I am fully satisfied! I am steadily getting 27 mpg city / 30+ highway (I have a very heavy foot too!)

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  OK car - 2009 Hyundai Sonata
  By Myra - August 8 - 5:10 am

  After owning Camarys in the past looked at the Sonata because of price and consumer rating. Overall the car is OK. Smooth braking to a complete stop is impossible. Transmission seems to jump out of gear at times.

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  Happy with my second Sonata - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By sonatanyc - August 5 - 2:00 am

  I have the 2003 LX w/ABS & TC. I am completely satisfied with the vehicle except for the gas mileage (18 MPG, 60-40 city/highway). But that should improve over time. I enjoyed my 2001 Sonata GLS Leather,too, until it was hit from behind while stopped by a car going 55 MPH and totaled (none of the four of us inside were injured). I have gotten nothing but compliments, including from the techs who installed by alarm system.

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  Awesome Car - A Family Car/Luxury/Sporty combo - 2017 Hyundai Sonata
  By traxen - August 5 - 1:35 am

  I bought my car certified preowned (CPO) just 2 months old and with just 1,498 miles on it. It still was in showroom condition inside and out and still had that new car smell. I was so happy to find this car while checking Mike Morgans Hyundai dealership inventory online. I still cant believe I was lucky enough to get such a great deal on a like-new Hyundai Sonata 2.0 Turbo Limited fully loaded - because some doctor had traded it in because he decided he wanted a truck. This was perfect for me because I was able to afford it without going over my budget or having to resort to a lower trim. Some expert reviews call the interior and exterior of the Azera refined, while they refer that very similar styling for the Sonata bland. Well, I like the upscale conservative and refined exterior styling of the Sonatas exterior and I like the German-style layout and touch of luxury that the Hyundai Sonata 2.0 Turbo Limited exudes. The exterior has the distinctive quad exhaust chrome tips, as well as a sleek swooping design along the top of the car with a lip spoiler and rear diffusior. The front grill, chrome accents, stylish headlights, side rocker panels, and low bumper clearance gives the car an almost aggressive (I mean business) appearance. The interior is plush with leather seats and soft touch plastics. The center stack for controlling the electronics is laid out thoughtfully for the drivers full control. The whole plethora of electronic gadgets is just amazing. I like the pep that the car has even in Eco mode for passing or getting on the highway, and it does save gas. I am surprised how sneaky and quitely the Hyundai Sonata 2.0 Turbo Limited can get up and pass the speed limit and far ahead of all the other traffic almost before you notice it while in just in Normal mode. Most of the time I have to stay out of the Sport mode to avoid getting ticketed because of my lead foot. Of course the Sonata is not a true sports car, it was designed to be mostly a family car. It does have a dash of luxury and sporty pep to a very comfortable and quite family car. Because of the low sports car bumper clearance you will have to get use to avoiding parking spots with concrete wheel blocks. I judge the distance away from these wheel blocks by sighting them with the bottom of my drivers side mirror. It takes some getting use to but it can keep you from damaging your beautiful cars bumper. I still cant believe I am driving and own such an awesome car. The panoramic moonroof cools me off after jogging without using my a/c. I like the drivers and passenger seats that are powered for adjusting up, down, as well as back and forward; they are also heated, and cooled. I also like that the drivers side mirrors and passenger side mirrors are heated and powered for adjusting. The adaptive cruise control, cross traffic alert, lane assists, abs, traction control, blind spot detection, and backup camera help me keep safe on the road. The unsurpassed Hyundai warranties, proven reliability and durability are more reason I wanted and value my Sonata so much. I have only owned my car for five months and I can truthfully say this is the first car I have really loved.

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  Great Car at Its Price Point - 2009 Hyundai Sonata
  By Ben G - August 4 - 9:20 pm

  Test drove similar sized cars such as Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion and Toyota Camary....This car is a good value for the money and was about $2000 less than the 2010 Fusion which was my 2nd choice....The car lacks a few items like driver and passenger side arm rets..The rear seating could be better...The 2.4L engine delivers good response and the overall ride is very good for a car this size....

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  From Camry XLE to Hyundai Sonata Limited - 2013 Hyundai Sonata
  By btiger14 - August 4 - 10:51 am

  Had been driving Toyota Camries for the last 20 years. The new 2012 Toyota Camry styling just did not do it for me. I liked the Sonata exterior styling much more. The car is good looking and fun to drive. Rides nice and looks great. The Nav option is very nice; only complaint being the special cord required for IPOD use. The 2.4 engine is ample in power; a concern I had since I was coming from the V6. Gas mileage at this point not great, but still in break in period. Given that the Hyundai comes with a very good warranty it is discouraging and concerning that the dealer pushes hard on the extended warranty for a sizable sum of money; makes you wonder about the service aspects.

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  sonata lx - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By james imel - July 31 - 10:00 am

  This car is one of the best values on the market. It has more standard features than many higher priced vehicles. The quality is excellent and the warranty is unsurpassed.

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  0ver 30 years loyal to Honda - 2011 Hyundai Sonata
  By A Hyundai are u sure - July 30 - 3:36 am

  The CEO of Honda said and I quote Hyundai is a awesome company . Hyundai is doing what Honda did 30 to 40 years ago making a great car at a fair price.

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  Watch out Honda, Toyota!!! - 2003 Hyundai Sonata
  By dresport - July 30 - 2:00 am

  Absolutely all around great car. Smooth, yet aggressive when need be. I wish I had a nickel each time Ive received a compliment on it – I’d be rich! Buy one and I guarantee within a week you’ll be told it looks like a Jaguar. Gas mileage is better than expected and it handles better than my father-in-law’s Accord. Highly recommended, in case you can’t tell!!!