2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid was a striking departure from its predecessors, capturing attention with its sleek, fastback profile and elegant design. It was a testament to Hyundai's design evolution, led by Peter Schreyer and Luc Donckerwolfe, transforming the brand's image from a budget option to a stylish contender. The Sonata's exterior featured innovative LED running lights that seamlessly integrated into the chrome trim, enhancing its aerodynamic appeal. Inside, the Sonata Hybrid boasted a luxurious interior with high-quality materials, large screens, and ambient lighting, rivaling even some luxury brands. The transformation from previous models was akin to upgrading from a basic TV to a VR headset in 4K, offering a truly modern and sophisticated driving experience.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid carried over the bold design introduced in the previous year, maintaining its standout presence in the sedan market. While some found the styling polarizing, it was undeniably eye-catching, especially with features like the integrated deck-lid spoiler and aerodynamic strakes. The interior was refined, offering a comfortable and supportive environment for both front and rear passengers. The cabin was equipped with soft-touch surfaces and a modern infotainment system, though some hard plastics remained. The 2021 model offered three trims—Blue, SEL, and Limited—each with varying levels of features and luxury, ensuring a suitable option for different preferences and budgets.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid was powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 51-hp electric motor, delivering a combined 192 horsepower. This setup provided a balanced performance, with the six-speed automatic transmission offering a more traditional driving feel compared to the CVTs found in most hybrids. While the gearbox occasionally hesitated, the overall driving experience was smooth, with a silent interior and a plush ride. The Sonata Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, with the Blue trim achieving an impressive 50 mpg city, 54 mpg highway, and 52 mpg combined. The SEL and Limited trims offered slightly lower efficiency but still delivered excellent fuel economy.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid retained the same powertrain, offering a combined 192 horsepower through a 2.0-liter engine and electric motor. The driving experience was refined, with solid pickup and responsive acceleration, even in Eco mode. The Drive Mode toggle allowed drivers to switch between Eco, Sport, Custom, and Smart modes, adapting to different driving styles. The transition between electric and engine power was seamless, and the auto stop-start system was minimally intrusive. The steering was precise, and the brakes provided solid stopping power, contributing to a confident and enjoyable driving experience.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited trim featured a solar panel roof, which could generate additional driving range and power the air conditioning when parked. The interior offered spacious rear-seat legroom, with features like manual side-window shades and heated seats enhancing comfort. The trunk provided 16 cubic feet of cargo space, easily accessible via a hidden button in the "H" logo. The push-button gear selector and intuitive controls made for a user-friendly experience, while the Limited trim boasted a high-resolution digital dash and advanced infotainment system.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid also offered 16 cubic feet of trunk space, comparable to its competitors. The cabin provided ample legroom for front passengers and decent rear-seat space, though the sloping roofline required some maneuvering to enter. The interior featured convenient storage options, including door pockets and a center console. The wireless charging pad and intuitive touchscreen layout added to the overall functionality, making the Sonata Hybrid a practical choice for everyday use.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited trim stood out with its advanced infotainment system, featuring a soothing color scheme and intuitive interface. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Hyundai Blue Link, provided seamless connectivity. The digital key and live camera feeds for blind spots enhanced convenience and safety. The Highway Driving Assist and head-up display offered a polished and user-friendly experience, making the Sonata Hybrid feel like a more expensive vehicle.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, with the Limited trim offering a 10.25-inch screen with navigation. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the larger screen only partially displayed CarPlay, leaving room for a customizable information panel. The intuitive layout and crisp graphics contributed to a modern and upscale feel. The Limited trim also included a head-up display, though its adjustability was limited for taller drivers. Overall, the technology package provided a comprehensive and user-friendly experience.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. It came standard with a suite of safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Limited trim offered additional features like parking sensors and Highway Driving Assist, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. It came standard with a comprehensive set of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Limited trim added a head-up display, 360-degree parking monitor, and parking sensors, providing a well-rounded safety package.