2021 Hyundai Sonata vs 2021 Honda Civic
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Hyundai Sonata is 8.5 out of 10, while the 2021 Honda Civic scores 7.2 out of 10. Given these ratings, the final recommendation leans towards the 2021 Hyundai Sonata. Its combination of performance, advanced technology, safety features, and distinctive design makes it the better choice overall in this comparison.
Choose the 2021 Hyundai Sonata if:
- You prefer a more powerful engine and sport-tuned driving dynamics.
- Advanced safety features and comprehensive ADAS are a priority.
- You appreciate a bold and distinctive exterior design that stands out.
Choose the 2021 Honda Civic if:
- Fuel efficiency and a proven track record for reliability are top considerations.
- You need a compact car with a spacious interior and practical storage options.
- You value a car with comprehensive standard safety features and top safety ratings.
Overview | |
MSRP$23,950 | MSRP$21,250 |
Average price$20,029 | Average price$20,731 |
Listings1601 | Listings991 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.5 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.2 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
|
2021 Hyundai Sonata Reviews SummaryIn a shrinking car market, the traditional sport sedan is increasingly rare. Designed and developed for people who prefer on-pavement performance but need passenger and cargo practicality, only a handful of dedicated non-premium sport sedans still exist, and most of those barely qualify for membership in the club. Enter the new 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line, which addresses both performance and practicality in a compelling midsize package and at a bargain price. | |
2021 Honda Civic Reviews SummaryHonda is ready to retire the 10th-generation Civic, one of the groundbreaking versions in the nameplate's long and storied history. From its polarizing design and three body styles to the arrival (finally!) of the Type R performance variant in the U.S. market, this version of the Civic made its mark. And even though the design is now six years old, and the car is ubiquitous on American roads, the 2021 Honda Civic remains worthy of consideration. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.5L 191 hp I4 | Engine2.0L 158 hp I4 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower191 hp @ 6100 rpm | Horsepower158 hp @ 6500 rpm |
MPG City27 | MPG City30 |
MPG Highway37 | MPG Highway38 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.5L 191 hp I4 | Engine Name2.0L 158 hp I4 |
Torque181 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | Torque138 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm |
Horsepower191 hp @ 6100 rpm | Horsepower158 hp @ 6500 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City27 | MPG City30 |
MPG Highway37 | MPG Highway38 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall4 | Front Crash Overall5 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space16.3 cu ft | Cargo Space15.1 cu ft |
Curb Weight3120 lbs | Curb Weight2771 lbs |
Height56.9 in | Height55.7 in |
Length192.9 in | Length182.7 in |
Width73.2 in | Width70.9 in |
Wheelbase111.8 in | Wheelbase106.3 in |
Maximum Payload1234 lbs | Maximum Payload998 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Hyundai Sonata is 8.5 out of 10, while the 2021 Honda Civic scores 7.2 out of 10. Given these ratings, the final recommendation leans towards the 2021 Hyundai Sonata. Its combination of performance, advanced technology, safety features, and distinctive design makes it the better choice overall in this comparison.
Choose the 2021 Hyundai Sonata if:
Shop Now- You prefer a more powerful engine and sport-tuned driving dynamics.
- Advanced safety features and comprehensive ADAS are a priority.
- You appreciate a bold and distinctive exterior design that stands out.
Choose the 2021 Honda Civic if:
Shop Now- Fuel efficiency and a proven track record for reliability are top considerations.
- You need a compact car with a spacious interior and practical storage options.
- You value a car with comprehensive standard safety features and top safety ratings.
Overview | ||
MSRP | $23,950 | $21,250 |
Average price | $20,029 | $20,731 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | 4.9 | 4.9 |
Expert reviews | 8.5 out of 10Read full review | 7.2 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | In a shrinking car market, the traditional sport sedan is increasingly rare. Designed and developed for people who prefer on-pavement performance but need passenger and cargo practicality, only a handful of dedicated non-premium sport sedans still exist, and most of those barely qualify for membership in the club. Enter the new 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line, which addresses both performance and practicality in a compelling midsize package and at a bargain price. | Honda is ready to retire the 10th-generation Civic, one of the groundbreaking versions in the nameplate's long and storied history. From its polarizing design and three body styles to the arrival (finally!) of the Type R performance variant in the U.S. market, this version of the Civic made its mark. And even though the design is now six years old, and the car is ubiquitous on American roads, the 2021 Honda Civic remains worthy of consideration. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.5L 191 hp I4 | 2.0L 158 hp I4 |
Drive Train | FWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Horsepower | 191 hp @ 6100 rpm | 158 hp @ 6500 rpm |
MPG City | 27 | 30 |
MPG Highway | 37 | 38 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.5L 191 hp I4 | 2.0L 158 hp I4 |
Torque | 181 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | 138 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm |
Horsepower | 191 hp @ 6100 rpm | 158 hp @ 6500 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 27 | 30 |
MPG Highway | 37 | 38 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | 5 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 16.3 cu ft | 15.1 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3120 lbs | 2771 lbs |
Height | 56.9 in | 55.7 in |
Length | 192.9 in | 182.7 in |
Width | 73.2 in | 70.9 in |
Wheelbase | 111.8 in | 106.3 in |
Maximum Payload | 1234 lbs | 998 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Hyundai had redesigned the Sonata for the 2020 model year, and the 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line followed in the same footsteps, presenting a daringly distinctive appearance that had polarized opinions. Its broad grille and tapered tail made it instantly recognizable as a Sonata, a design choice that was both praised and criticized. The N Line’s front fascia was refashioned with larger air intakes to enhance engine cooling, and the front design adeptly minimized the unusual daytime running light signature extending into the hood.
Gloss black side mirrors, window surrounds, and 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels stood out when viewing the Sonata in profile. At the back, a subtle gloss black lip spoiler, a reworked bumper, and a four-outlet exhaust system accentuated the car’s sporty demeanor. Inside, the Sonata N Line featured upholstery with premium Nappa leather bolsters, Dinamica suede inserts, red stitching, aluminum pedal covers, and dark chrome accents. The standard panoramic sunroof added an airy feel to the interior while giving the exterior a two-tone flair.
Meanwhile, the 2021 Honda Civic continued to capitalize on its bold design ethos. Each new generation had seen a significant revamp, especially the 2016 model which had dared to set fresh benchmarks in the compact car segment. Unlike some past reinventions, the 11th-generation Civic that was anticipated for 2022 seemed more akin to a smaller Honda Accord rather than a revolutionary compact car.
For 2021, the Civic was available as a sedan, hatchback, and the performance-tuned Type R. The sedan, which we reviewed, was available in LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring trims. The test model, in particular, was the Touring sedan cloaked in Cosmic Blue Metallic paint, an extra $395, bringing the total price to $29,690. The 10th-generation Civic’s design had elicited mixed reactions, but with over a million sold, it became a common sight. The Touring trim’s 18-inch wheels complemented the Cosmic Blue exterior, though the design wasn’t universally adored in all lighting or from all angles.
The Civic’s interior, once considered avant-garde, showed signs of aging, especially its maximum 7-inch infotainment screen, but its quality materials and thoughtful detailing continued to impress.
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line was no mere looker; it packed serious performance upgrades. Equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, it delivered 290 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 311 lb-ft of torque from 1,650 to 4,000 rpm. The new eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) with paddle shifters and launch control channelled power effectively to the front wheels.
Drivers could choose from Normal, Sport, Sport+, and Custom driving modes. The Active Sound Design (ASD) system and sport-tuned exhaust produced an engine note reminiscent of a Subaru WRX’s horizontally opposed four-cylinder. The improvements didn’t stop at the engine; the Sonata N Line featured heightened engine and transmission mount stiffness, quicker rack-mounted electric steering, larger braking components, and a sport-tuned suspension. The car rode on 19-inch wheels fitted with 245/40 all-season or summer performance tires.
During test drives, especially on the undulating roads near Malibu, California, the Sonata N Line’s responsiveness and handling shone. The sport suspension and larger brakes provided a confident and engaging drive experience, minimizing body roll and maintaining composure over uneven terrain. Despite being front-wheel drive, understeer was effectively managed with the summer tires and careful driving techniques. The ride was generally smooth, whether navigating city streets or highway stretches. However, fuel economy was slightly below EPA estimates, with a recorded 23.7 mpg compared to the expected 27 mpg in combined driving.
In comparison, the 2021 Honda Civic’s performance varied with trim levels. The base LX and Sport trims featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Although adequate, this powertrain couldn’t match the enthusiasm of the turbocharged variants.
The EX, EX-L, and Touring trims came with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque from 1,700 rpm to 5,500 rpm, significantly enhancing the driving experience. While the Civic’s sophisticated suspension and responsive steering made for an enjoyable drive, the inherent drawbacks of the CVT kept it from realizing its full potential. The transmission’s droning noise and imprecise paddle shifters detracted from the overall experience. That said, the Civic excelled in fuel economy, recording an impressive 34.8 mpg on a 140-mile loop, surpassing the EPA’s estimate of 33 mpg in combined driving.
The Hyundai Sonata N Line featured sport seats with heated front seats that masterfully balanced comfort and support. The Dinamica suede inserts helped keep drivers secure during spirited driving, while the manual seat height adjuster for the front passenger added convenience. The cabin felt slightly premium compared to the smaller Elantra N Line, thanks to better materials and amenities like rear air conditioning vents and a USB port.
However, rear-seat comfort in the Sonata was only marginally better than the Elantra, with improvements mainly in width rather than legroom or thigh support. The panoramic sunroof mitigated any sense of confinement. Practical interior storage was ample, but the design of the center console and transmission control pod had room for improvement.
The trunk boasted a generous 16 cubic feet of cargo space, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat for extra utility. The Smart Trunk feature with hands-free release added convenience, although the absence of an interior handle for the trunk lid could be inconvenient.
The Honda Civic, despite its low-to-the-ground stance making ingress and egress a mild workout, offered commendable comfort once inside. The driver’s seat was adjustable in eight ways, while the front passenger's seat lacked height adjustment, which would have enhanced accessibility. Leather upholstery was standard starting with the EX-L trim, adding a touch of luxury.
Rear-seat space in the Civic was surprisingly generous, with ample thigh support and a comfortable backrest angle, though the lack of rear air vents was a notable omission. The center console was impressively practical, offering extensive storage, trays, and cupholders.
The trunk capacity of the Civic sedan came at 15.1 cubic feet, slightly less than the Sonata. Choosing the Touring trim cut down the space to 14.7 cubic feet due to the premium sound system, but it was still substantial for the compact class.
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line featured a blend of advanced and useful technology. It sported a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel paired with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Standard features included navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a Bose premium sound system. The infotainment system supported HD Radio, SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and came with a three-year subscription to Blue Link connected services. However, it lacked a WiFi hotspot, and the absence of a tuning knob was a usability drawback.
Engaging with the infotainment system could sometimes result in accidental touches due to the placement of the volume knob and the screen's curvature. The voice recognition system worked most of the time but wasn’t infallible. Hyundai's unique Sounds of Nature feature provided calming ambient noise tracks for stress relief, while the Digital Key function allowed Android users to unlock and start the car with their smartphones.
The 2021 Honda Civic’s technology offerings were starting to show signs of aging. The LX trim came with a basic 5-inch LCD screen, Bluetooth, and a slow-charging USB port. Upgrading to the Sport trim brought a 7-inch touchscreen, eight-speaker sound system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, text-messaging support, and a 1.5-amp USB port.
The EX trim added HD Radio and SiriusXM, while the Touring trim included navigation with voice recognition, digital traffic updates, and a 10-speaker premium audio system. Despite these features, the voice recognition system in the Civic was less sophisticated, requiring specific prompts to function correctly. Most drivers would likely prefer using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for better user experience and navigation.
Safety was a strong suit for the 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line, equipped with Hyundai’s comprehensive SmartSense suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS). This package included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, lane-centering assistance, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, driver-attention warning, and automatic high-beam headlights.
Additional safety features included a Rear Occupant Alert system, Safe Exit Warning, and a Level 2 ADAS called Highway Drive Assist. The system proved to be reliable and smooth in operation, fostering driver trust. While the standard Sonata had high safety ratings, the N Line's unique features hadn’t been specifically rated by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review.
Every 2021 Honda Civic came standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of ADAS that included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, Road Departure Mitigation, and lane-keeping assistance. Automatic high-beam headlights and a multi-angle reversing camera were also included.
Starting with EX trim, the Civic offered LaneWatch, a camera-based system to monitor the right lane, but it had limitations such as vulnerability to damage and only covering the right side. The lack of a traditional blind-spot warning system and rear cross-traffic alert was a shortfall. Despite these issues, Honda Sensing provided adequate performance, though it could be abrupt and indecisive at times.
The 2021 Civic earned a Top Safety Pick from IIHS for the Touring trim and garnered five-star ratings from NHTSA in all tests, making it an exceptionally safe vehicle in the event of a collision.
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.