2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs 2020 Hyundai Elantra

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra retained its bold, geometric styling from the previous year, which was a departure from its earlier Genesis Jr. design cues. This design set the stage for the more angular 2021 model. Available in six versions, the Elantra's price ranged from $19,300 to $24,150, with the Limited trim reaching $27,630 when equipped with the Ultimate Package. The Elantra's black paint job highlighted its angular features, creating a striking contrast with the chrome detailing. Inside, the Elantra Limited featured silver trim accents, adding a touch of sophistication, though the presence of hard plastics reminded occupants of its compact car status.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, on the other hand, was praised for its elegant and sleek design, which was a significant departure from Hyundai's past reputation. The Sonata's fastback profile and tailored body were stunning for a family car in its price range. The design was attributed to the influence of design chief Peter Schreyer and ex-Bentley chief Luc Donckerwolfe. The Sonata Hybrid featured unique LED running lights, a wide grille, and a black ducktail spoiler, all contributing to its aerodynamic and visually appealing design. Inside, the Sonata boasted a luxurious interior with big screens, ambient lighting, and high-quality materials, making it feel more upscale than its competitors.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra offered a 147-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a new continuously variable transmission (CVT). This CVT replaced the previous six-speed automatic and manual options, contributing to a price increase. The Elantra Eco model featured a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine with 128 horsepower and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, achieving 36 mpg in combined driving. The Elantra Sport trim offered a 1.6-liter turbo engine with 201 horsepower and an independent rear suspension for improved handling. Despite the new CVT's promise of better efficiency, real-world testing showed an average of 29.3 mpg, falling short of expectations. The Elantra's torsion beam axle rear suspension affected ride quality, making it less enjoyable to drive compared to the Sport trim.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid utilized a 2.0-liter engine running on the Atkinson cycle, paired with a 51-hp electric motor and a 1.5-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion polymer battery, producing a total of 192 hp. The Sonata Hybrid featured a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a more traditional driving experience. The suspension was tuned for comfort, offering a plush ride without feeling floaty. The Sonata Hybrid's fuel efficiency was impressive, with the Blue trim achieving 50 mpg city, 54 mpg highway, and 52 mpg combined. The SEL and Limited trims offered more features but slightly lower fuel efficiency. The Sonata Hybrid's powertrain was smooth and quiet, with the ability to run on battery power at highway speeds.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra was known for its roomy interior, comfortably accommodating four adults. The Limited trim featured power driver's seat adjustment, leather upholstery, and a sliding center console armrest. All Elantras came with dual-zone automatic climate control, though rear passengers lacked air conditioning vents. The trunk offered 14.4 cubic feet of space, comparable to some midsize sedans, and included a convenient interior grab handle.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited trim featured solar panels that could power the air conditioning when parked, potentially adding extra driving range. The rear seat offered ample legroom, with vents, manual side-window shades, and heated seats. The trunk provided 16 cubic feet of cargo space, accessible via a hidden button in the "H" logo. The Sonata Hybrid's interior was well-designed, with a push-button gear selector, dual-zone climate control, and a wireless charging pad. The Limited trim boasted a 12-inch digital dash and a 10-inch touchscreen with advanced software.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra came with a standard touchscreen infotainment system, with screen sizes varying by trim. The Limited trim offered wireless smartphone charging and a premium Infinity sound system. The Ultimate Package added an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and additional services. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and voice recognition.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid's infotainment system on the Limited trim was praised for its soothing color scheme and intuitive design. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Hyundai Blue Link. The Sonata Hybrid offered a digital key, live camera feeds for blind spots, and a hands-free trunk. The voice recognition system was responsive, and the Highway Driving Assist provided semi-automated driving assistance. The head-up display and polished graphics added to the premium feel.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra featured Hyundai Smart Sense as standard, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Elantra earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS with full LED headlights and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it earned four stars in a frontal crash test. The Sonata was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, with standard emergency forward braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Limited trim offered additional safety features like parking sensors and Highway Driving Assist.