With its dashing looks and broad lineup of models, the 2022 Hyundai Sonata is a mid-size sedan that does its best to lure buyers away from SUVs.
After a redesign for 2020, the Sonata sees few updates. This model’s only significant change is adding a new N Line trim level that offers zippy looks paired with a more powerful turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
For 2021, the Sonata comes in SE, SEL, SEL Plus, Limited, and N Line trim levels with gas engines. There’s also a hybrid version, which we will cover elsewhere. Gas versions Sonata SE and SEL come standard with a 191-horsepower inline-4, while the SEL and Limited trims get a smaller 1.6-liter turbo-4 with more torque than the base engine. The N-Line ups the ante with a 290-hp turbo-4. All Sonata models come with automatic transmissions and front-wheel drive (FWD). All-wheel drive (AWD) is not available on the Sonata.
No matter the badge on the back or the engine under the hood, every Sonata comes with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and bicycle detection plus adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlights.
2021 Hyundai Sonata SE (Original starting price when new: $24,955)
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The 2021 Hyundai Sonata SE started at $24,955.
The base Sonata includes 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, cloth upholstery, manually-adjustable front seats, a 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat, and an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, and a 6-speaker audio system.
Who is this trim for? Though not lavish, the base Sonata SE is well-equipped and efficient for a mid-size sedan, a good choice for frugal commuters.
2021 Hyundai Sonata SE includes:
8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto — Smartphone mirroring allows access to select navigation, entertainment, and communication apps via the touchscreen.
Adaptive cruise control — A sensor-based system that keeps the car a safe distance from the vehicle in front by speeding up and slowing down automatically.
Automatic emergency braking — A safety system that can apply full braking force automatically in the event of an impending collision with a vehicle, a pedestrian, or a cyclist.
2021 Hyundai Sonata SEL (Original starting price when new: $26,805)
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The 2021 Hyundai Sonata SEL started at $26,805.
Building on the base Sonata, the SEL adds 17-inch alloy wheels, acoustic sound-deadening glass in the front door windows, power adjustment for the driver’s seat, heated front seats, satellite radio capability, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
An extra-cost Convenience Package adds a panoramic sunroof, a digital instrument cluster, a wireless charging pad, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear-seat air vents, and a digital key that allows the vehicle to be unlocked when a registered user’s smartphone approaches the car.
Who is this trim for? With its extra features, the SEL appeals to shoppers looking for a little more tech and comfort — especially with the Convenience Package.
2021 Hyundai Sonata SEL includes:
Available Convenience Package — More about luxury than convenience, this package adds upscale features while keeping the price reasonable.
Power-adjustable driver’s seat — This feature allows safe on-the-go adjustment with added lumbar support.
2021 Hyundai Sonata SEL Plus (Original starting price when new: $29,305)
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The 2021 Hyundai Sonata SEL Plus started at $29,305.
Though it shares its name with the SEL, the SEL Plus adds quite a bit, including a smaller turbocharged engine with less horsepower but more torque for better acceleration. Its 19-inch wheels provide sharp styling at the expense of ride quality.
Inside, it includes leatherette and suede upholstered seats, blind-spot monitors, and a wireless charging pad. An optional Tech Package adds a panoramic sunroof, Bose audio, a 10.3-inch touchscreen with Bose audio, and Highway Driving Assist tech.
2021 Hyundai Sonata SEL Plus includes:
1.6-liter turbo-4 — This torquier engine delivers improved acceleration at the cost of slightly lower fuel economy
Leatherette and suede upholstery — These seats have a racy look, and their upholstery should be easier to clean than standard cloth.
Available Tech Package — The big draw here may be the Highway Driving Assist feature that helps keep the car centered in its lane to reduce driver fatigue on a road trip.
2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line (Original starting price when new: $34,305)
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The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line started at $34,305.
The performance-oriented version of the Sonata makes use of an upsized and more powerful turbo-4 rated at a healthy 290 hp, plus it uses an 8-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission designed to fire off ultra-fast shifts.
Its exterior features trim-specific bumpers and wheels for a sporty look, matched by unique black leather and suede seats inside.
Building on the SEL Plus, it adds features such as the 10.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, Bose audio, a panoramic sunroof, and a digital instrument cluster. The only factory option is for summer-only tires. The SEL Plus trim level also includes the Highway Driving Assist feature.
Who is this trim for? The Sonata N Line is a quick performer with a powerful engine and a stiffer ride, making it a good choice for enthusiasts but maybe a little too much for drivers seeking comfort.
2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line includes:
2.5-liter turbo-4 and 8-speed dual-clutch transmission — Reading more like the spec sheet from an actual performance model, the powertrain in the N Line delivers spirited acceleration.
Digital instrument cluster — Drivers can configure this high-tech instrument cluster to display different graphics plus a host of driving information.
Available summer tires — Summer tires provide substantial grip in warm temperatures but lose traction below 45 degrees.
2021 Hyundai Sonata Limited (Original starting price when new: $34,955)
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The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Limited started at $34,955.
The range-topping Sonata starts with the SEL Plus, including its turbo-4 engine. It adds 19-inch alloy wheels, more advanced LED headlights, leather upholstery, power adjustment for the passenger’s seat, cooled front seats, and a heated steering wheel.
Who is this trim for? The Sonata Limited is the “all-in” version of this mid-size sedan, with every feature in the model’s playbook as standard fare.
2021 Hyundai Sonata Limited includes:
Advanced LED headlights — These trim-exclusive headlights provide the best nighttime output, according to the IIHS.
Cooled front seats — Tiny fans work with ventilated leather upholstery to provide comfort on hot days.
Heated steering wheel — The steering wheel rim features an integrated heating element that can be activated to keep the driver’s hands toasty.
