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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  Love It!!!!! - 2001 Hyundai Sonata
  By Cmt4lif02 - January 5 - 11:30 am

  Ive had my car for a year now and it has been the best thing ever. It has gotten me back and forward to school, and the gas mileage is good. The car also has great handling and control. Ive had minimal problems with the car. It holds up well when something is wrong though. I would suggest this car for any young driver.

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  Sonata over Prius - 2006 Hyundai Sonata
  By Doc5thMech - January 5 - 1:03 am

  The Hyundai dealer in my area is staffed by knowledgeable sales people. Customer service is friendly, prompt and consumer oriented, complete with a fleet of loaners. They separate issues from people and are thus able to give exemplary service while correcting problems. Ive not had a major problem yet (one week). I also test-drove the Prius, and it is NOT made for Chicago (the wind drives the car more than the steering wheel!)

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  We have three, yes three, Hyundais - 2008 Hyundai Sonata
  By miketoncola - January 4 - 6:35 pm

  We like Hyundai products so well we began buying one each year them in 2006, currently owning two Limited models Azeras we drive for total luxury and comfort and a third standard transmission Sonata I drive back in NY as my Summer toy, and we appreciate and enjoy each one!

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  Incredible Car - 2011 Hyundai Sonata
  By Jon Ferrian - January 4 - 5:33 pm

  I purchased this car almost two months ago and drive approx 500 miles a week between work and home. This car has two personalities, first it is an economy car that gets approx 35 MPG highway and 25 MPG city when you behave with it. On the other hand this is almost sports car like on the other side. I have the SE edition and noticed very quickly that this car does not have a speed governor on it and is capable of speeds in excess of 130 MPH! Excellent sound system. More room then the 2002 Taurus that I replaced. I can hardly go anywhere without people asking about the car and admiring it! I can hardly count how many times People have asked me if it is a LEXUS! FUN FUN FUN!

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  No belt Chain for timing - 2006 Hyundai Sonata
  By Louis - January 4 - 4:32 pm

  We owned it since new 190000 still going of course you have to maintain where parts but if your looking for a used car I would recommend this year since it was built in USA plant I have the LX and Im handy when it comes to doing my own repairs .

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  Faulty Brakes - 2010 Hyundai Sonata
  By pas7 - January 4 - 12:25 pm

  This is the second Sonata that i owned. The first was a 2007 and the brakes and rotors needed changing at 45000 miles, at the first service the tech said that the brakes would not release, warantee work cost $75. When I got the next one a 2010 I was told that the brake system was corrected, now at 22000 miles I had to change the pads and rotors. LAST HYUNDAI I WILL OWN. Pads and rotors from Amazon cost $88 Delivered. The h... with the dealer.

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  If you want a Missile... - 2015 Hyundai Sonata
  By Shane - January 3 - 8:12 am

  What can I say about our Sonata? Rocket! Though this vehicle has less horsepower than its former rendition, and its Kia Optima counterpart, this vehicle is nonetheless stunning. The Hyundai Sonata has a more refined and mature look than the Optima. Though they are essentially the same car, the Optima uses a larger Turbo Charger, and consequently gets worse fuel mileage. But lets also be realistic in this department. When you are purchasing the vehicle with the "HOT" engine you are really not interested in fuel economy, youre interested in HORSEPOWER. Nevertheless, the Sonata 2.0L Turbo puts out a fairly respectful 245 Horses. With the electronic traction control, this powerplant slings this vehicle down the road pretty quick and will give you a fairly stout launch onto the highway. Using the paddle shifters will give you that much more control over getting this sedan launched to Mars. The power comes up very quick with the twin scroll turbo, there is almost no lag, as there is in the Optima. This aspect gives the Sonata a slight edge in getting to the power band quicker, but it is limited by the smaller turbo. That said, the average driver will never know the difference. What is more entertaining is picking on the Toyota Camry owners whom "think" their Camry Sport is a quick car. Nope, its not. I have smoked more Camrys and Accords than I care to mention here. I throw respect to the Optima owners. As for you Corolla S and Honda Civic Owners, YUMMY! The interior of this vehicle is very nicely laid-out and in my opinion, (and end reason for purchase), thought out better than the Kia Optima. This is not to say the Optima is any lesser of a vehicle, it simply did not appeal to what I was looking for, so please dont read too much into that aspect. This vehicle was designed and developed for sheer "Bang for the Buck", and regardless of the model you choose, you will find huge value in the options. The suspension in the Sport models has been tuned and firmed up from the other renditions of this same car. This vehicle is nearly silent at highway speeds, and rides so smooth, you really need to set the cruise control to avoid getting an invitation to Traffic School. So keeping your eye on the Speedo is a must. The turn radius for this vehicle is quite tight. I was expecting to have to do a stop and continue U-Turn in a couple of intersections near my home as they are fairly narrow. Nope, this vehicle handled them without an issue. This vehicle has been into Hyundai for the regular maintenance and for a factory recall on the Drivers Side Seat-Belt. Other than that one issue, there has been no mechanical issues with this vehicle. This vehicle has been wonderful, and we have no complaints with this car.

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  best family Sidan - 2006 Hyundai Sonata
  By Dead - January 2 - 11:23 pm

  i bought my GLS 2.4 sonata in Feb. 2006 and it was the best automotive decision i ever made the bulid quality is the best and after 1.5 year im still in love with this car if im in the market for midsize car i would never buy anything else ,, im really amazed wih korian quality .. HYUNDAI keep it ON .

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  Not all is perfect - 2009 Hyundai Sonata
  By ACT - January 1 - 3:03 pm

  Purchased Limited w/nav in Jan 09, traded in 2002 Honda EX and paid 16K, best deal for 4-door sedan bar none. Incredible list of features for the money, and after 5500 miles, I feel this car is superior to Honda. Happy with engine performance, seat comfort, sound system. But considerable body roll and suspension noise on bad pavement, as many people have noted. Gas mileage not as good as advertised, only getting 18mpg in city. Mileage computer only tracks mileage since last fill-up, no lifetime stats. Controls on drivers door not lit, hard to find at night. Limited options for viewing and playing music on USB drive. Trunk is hard to close when holding something, you really have to push down.

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  Super value - 2006 Hyundai Sonata
  By Tym T - January 1 - 10:32 am

  I bought this car used and commute across town daily. I have had zero problems! As others have said, the fit and finish and quality of build is far better than expected. The switches feel solid. It is fast (coming from an owner of many muscle cars) and inspires confidence in traffic. I would like a bit tighter suspension, but I didnt buy it as a sports car,so thats fine. The seat felt strange for about one day, and Ive found it quite comfortable in the last year. I have no problems with the AC/heater controls and radio positions that others have noted. I added a subwoofer to the factory stereo and it is incredible, and I still have lots of trunk. This car is a great value.