Powering the Hyundai Sonata is a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine making 191 horsepower, which is up from previous generation's 185 horsepower. The optional engine is a turbocharged 1.6L 4-cylinder unit making 180 horsepower, but torque is up for this engine over the base 2.5L. A new 8-speed automatic is the only transmission option, sending power to the front wheels. Hyundai claims anywhere from 36 mpg to 38 mpg on the highway depending on trim.
The base SE model offers a bigger 8-inch LCD screen is now standard and the cockpit feels generally more airy and open. Standard features now include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth hands free wireless phone connectivity with audio streaming, a rearview monitor with parking lines, both lane keep and lane following assist functions for the cruise control, a stop and go function for that cruise control, automatic high beams, a rear occupant alert system, forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, LED headlights/taillights and daytime running lights, and power side mirrors.
The SEL version adds heated front seats, an 8-way power adjustable driver's seat, rear cross traffic alert and collision avoidance, a blind spot monitoring system with collision avoidance, selective internet access, a proximity key with push button start, 17-inch wheels, a sportier front and rear fascia with twin tip mufflers, heated side mirrors with built in turn signals, a 4.2-inch LCD instrument cluster display, Blue Link Connected Car System, dual-zone climate control and chrome accents throughout the exterior.
A bit more sportiness is on offer with the SEL Plus trim, which gets the turbocharged engine, paddle shifters and 19-inch wheels with lower profile tires and some gloss black around the exterior. Inside, the SEL Plus trim gets suede/leatherette seating surfaces, aluminum pedals, wireless phone charging, an auto-dimming interior mirror, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The SEL Plus also has an interesting feature where owners can use their phone to lock and unlock their car.
The top of the line Limited trim adds a heads-up display, Blind-Spot View Monitor, 18-inch wheels, heated and cooled leather seats, a 360-degree camera interface displayed through a bigger 10.25-inch screen, built in navigation with voice activation and real-time traffic/weather, premium sound system with 12 speakers/amplifier/digital signal processor, ambient light, seat and exterior mirrors memory for 2 drivers, soft leatherette finish on dashboard, and a remote parking assist function.
Packages available for the Sonata 2021 are Convenience for the SEL and Tech for SEL Plus.
Stylish Design
Competitive Pricing
Roomy Interior
Safety And Convenience Features
The Sonata carries the redesign from previous year. A few changes for the 2021 model are standard safe-exist warning on all trims except for the SE, height adjustable passenger seat in the SE and SEL, and 6-way power passenger seat in the limited trim. The biggest news for the Sonata 2021 is the sporty version N Line.
The Hyundai Sonata has always been a good value, costing less than cars like the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord. However, Hyundai wanted to give buyers more than just an inexpensive alternative to those cars for 2021, it wanted to give buyers something they could be proud to own; something with competitive tech features, stand out styling and an extra dose of comfort. The 2021 Sonata achieves this. Not only does it have a claimed best in class front seat head and leg room, the 2021 Sonata gets Hyundai's new SmartSense safety suite along with great looks and an attractive interior.
