Hyundai Sonata has transformed the midsize sedan market by introducing a novel concept: aggressive styling. Sonata challenged the gatekeepers that have traditionally won customers by playing it safe. The Sonata is for drivers who don’t want another run-of-the-mill Toyota Camry or Honda Accord in their garage.
What's New for 2014
The Sonata beefs up options in its various packages this year, and offers slight tweaks like a revised grille and a quieter cabin. Other new standard features include HID headlights, LED taillights, a modified rear fascia, Driver Selectable Steering Mode, Vehicle Stability Management and tire-specific tire pressure monitors. Most of the big changes occur in the higher-end trim models.
Choosing your Hyundai Sonata
The Sonata utilizes a six-speed automatic transmission mated to one of two engines:
- The 190 horsepower 2.-4 liter four-cylinder engine achieves 24 mpg city and 35 mpg highway.
- The turbocharged 2-liter engine kicks out 274 horsepower while earning an EPA estimate of 21 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
GLS
The base GLS starts at $21,450, and comes with the basic equipment a buyer would expect in a midsize family sedan—air conditioning, Bluetooth and heated side mirrors are standard. The Popular Equipment Package adds enhancements to the baseline model like a rearview camera and a driver’s blind spot mirror. You can't have certain options like leather upholstery or a moonroof, however, and the GLS comes only with the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter engine.SE
A step up to the $24,300 SE includes carbon fiber trim, a rearview camera, a leather steering wheel, blind spot mirrors and HD Radio. A sport-tuned exhaust is available on the optional 2-liter turbo engine. If you opt for the Premium Package you get blind spot detection and navigation.SE 2.0T
Adds the 2-liter turbocharged engine.Limited
The most expensive Sonata, priced from $27,000, adds standard features like blind spot detection and a ventilated driver’s seat. The optional Technology Package includes a panoramic sunroof, navigation, and an Infinity sound system. The turbocharged engine is also optional at this level.Limited 2.0T
Adds the 2-liter turbocharged engine.If you automatically opt for a reliable Accord or Camry, the Sonata is worth a second-test drive, if you’re looking to stand out with a reliable competitor. We'd choose an SE with the turbocharged engine as the best pick—adding options to a Limited can easily push its price past $30,000.