2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs 2020 Lexus ES

The 2020 Lexus ES underwent a significant transformation from its earlier iterations, shedding its "boring" label for a more aggressive design. The introduction of a larger spindle grille in 2016, which expanded further in the 2020 model, complemented the car's increased proportions. While the grille was initially overwhelming, it harmonized well with the new design. The rear of the ES was more understated, featuring thin taillamps and a distinctive kink in the side windows. Inside, the ES boasted a luxurious cabin with soft-touch materials and a large infotainment screen integrated into the dash. The interior was considered one of the best among luxury sedans, second only to Mercedes-Benz. The 2020 ES offered various trims, including the base 350 FWD, Luxury, Ultra Luxury, and F Sport, each with a range of standard and optional features.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid impressed with its elegant design, drawing compliments from onlookers. Its sleek, fastback profile and tailored body were remarkable for a family car in its price range. The Sonata's transformation was attributed to design chief Peter Schreyer and ex-Bentley chief Luc Donckerwolfe, who elevated Hyundai's design standards. The Sonata featured innovative LED running lights and a wide grille, contributing to its aerodynamic and stylish appearance. The Hybrid model included unique turbine-style wheels, a redesigned grille, and the option of a solar roof. Inside, the Sonata's interior rivaled luxury brands, with big screens, ambient lighting, and high-quality materials. The Sonata Hybrid's design and features marked a significant departure from Hyundai's past reputation.

The 2020 Lexus ES was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup allowed the ES to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with a top speed of 131 mph. While not a high-performance vehicle, the ES provided confident acceleration and smooth highway driving. The ride was comfortable and refined, with a suspension that absorbed road imperfections without feeling overly soft. The F Sport trim offered an optional Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) for enhanced driving dynamics, including a Sport+ mode for a more engaging experience. Despite its Camry and Avalon roots, the ES's upgraded suspension and paddle shifters added a touch of excitement to the driving experience.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine running on the Atkinson cycle, producing 150 horsepower and 139 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 51-hp electric motor and a 1.5-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion polymer battery, the total output was 192 hp. The Sonata Hybrid used a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a more traditional driving feel compared to the CVTs found in most hybrids. While the transmission occasionally hesitated, the Sonata Hybrid's ride was quiet and comfortable, with a soft suspension that avoided a floaty feel. The steering was light and precise, and the brakes were easy to modulate. The Hybrid's powertrain allowed for electric-only driving at highway speeds, contributing to its impressive fuel efficiency. The Blue trim achieved 50 mpg city, 54 mpg highway, and 52 mpg combined, while the SEL and Limited trims offered slightly lower figures.

The 2020 Lexus ES offered a spacious cabin with ample head- and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear-seat headroom was improved in the 2019 redesign, accommodating taller occupants. The front doors featured deep pockets, and the center console provided multiple storage options. The ES had 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space, which was average for the midsize luxury segment. However, the rear seats did not fold down, limiting the ability to transport larger items.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited trim featured solar panels that could power the air conditioning and provide additional driving range. The interior offered generous rear-seat legroom, with amenities like vents, manual side-window shades, and heated seats. The trunk provided 16 cubic feet of cargo space, accessible via a button hidden in the "H" logo. The Sonata Hybrid's visibility was enhanced by 360-degree cameras. The push-button gear selector and drive mode toggle were user-friendly, and the center stack included dual-zone climate control and a wireless charging pad. The Limited trim featured a digital dash and a 10-inch touchscreen with advanced software.

The 2020 Lexus ES featured the Lexus Remote Touch system, which used a touch-sensitive pad to control the infotainment display. While not a touchscreen, the system was intuitive once presets were set. The ES included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the option for a 12.3-inch display. The infotainment system was complemented by a 10-speaker premium audio system, with an available 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. A head-up display was also available, offering crisp graphics and customization.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited trim boasted an advanced infotainment system with a soothing color scheme and attractive typefaces. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Hyundai Blue Link were standard, along with a digital key feature. The Sonata Hybrid's turn signals activated live camera feeds of blind spots, enhancing safety. The trunk opened automatically when the key was nearby, and voice recognition was fast and accurate. The Highway Driving Assist provided semi-automated driving, with detailed information displayed on the head-up display. The Limited trim's infotainment system was polished and intuitive, offering a premium experience.

The 2020 Lexus ES came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. The system also featured pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keep assist, and lane-tracing assist for semi-autonomous highway driving. Additional safety features included front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, stability control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four stars in the frontal crash test. The regular Sonata was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, with top ratings in six crash tests. The Sonata Hybrid included standard safety features like lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, driver attention monitor, rear emergency braking, and automatic high beams. The Limited trim offered parking sensors and Highway Driving Assist. A driver's knee airbag was standard across all trims.