2021 Hyundai Sonata vs 2022 Hyundai Sonata

2021 Hyundai Sonata
2021 Hyundai Sonata
$23,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Hyundai Sonata
2022 Hyundai Sonata
$24,150MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Hyundai Sonata
$23,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Hyundai Sonata
$24,150MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Hyundai Sonata was 8.5 out of 10, while the 2022 Hyundai Sonata scored 8 out of 10. Given these ratings, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata emerges as the better choice. Its combination of performance, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a sporty yet refined interior make it a compelling option for those seeking a dynamic and stylish midsize sedan.

Overview

MSRP

$23,950

MSRP

$24,150

Average price

$20,180

Average price

$21,851

Listings

1612

Listings

1108
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.5 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • All-wheel drive not available
  • Underwhelming base engine
Pros
  • Quiet cabin
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Great warranty
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • All-wheel drive not available

2021 Hyundai Sonata Reviews 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.

2022 Hyundai Sonata Reviews Summary

Despite having the onerous task of competing against segment mainstays like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord—and combating waning consumer interest in midsize sedans—the Hyundai Sonata continues to play to its strengths. By offering tremendous value, exceptional quality, an outstanding warranty, and a surprisingly sporty N Line variant, the Sonata can more than hold its own against the segment favorites.
No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.5L 191 hp I4

Engine

2.5L 191 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

191 hp @ 6100 rpm

Horsepower

191 hp @ 6100 rpm

MPG City

27

MPG City

27

MPG Highway

37

MPG Highway

37
2021 Hyundai Sonata
2021 Hyundai Sonata
$23,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Hyundai Sonata
2022 Hyundai Sonata
$24,150MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Hyundai Sonata
$23,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Hyundai Sonata
$24,150MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Hyundai Sonata was 8.5 out of 10, while the 2022 Hyundai Sonata scored 8 out of 10. Given these ratings, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata emerges as the better choice. Its combination of performance, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a sporty yet refined interior make it a compelling option for those seeking a dynamic and stylish midsize sedan.

Overview
MSRP
$23,950
$24,150
Average price
$20,180
$21,851
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.9
4.9
Expert reviews

8.5 out of 10

Read full review

8.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • All-wheel drive not available
  • Underwhelming base engine
Pros
  • Quiet cabin
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Great warranty
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • All-wheel drive not available
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.
Despite having the onerous task of competing against segment mainstays like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord—and combating waning consumer interest in midsize sedans—the Hyundai Sonata continues to play to its strengths. By offering tremendous value, exceptional quality, an outstanding warranty, and a surprisingly sporty N Line variant, the Sonata can more than hold its own against the segment favorites.
Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.5L 191 hp I4
2.5L 191 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
191 hp @ 6100 rpm
191 hp @ 6100 rpm
MPG City
27
27
MPG Highway
37
37
Look and feel
2021 Hyundai Sonata
8/10
2022 Hyundai Sonata
7/10

Hyundai’s redesign of the Sonata for the 2020 model year made a bold statement with its daring and distinctive styling, making it a recognizable presence on the road. The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line emphasized this approach, incorporating functional and stylistic enhancements that highlighted its sporty character while addressing less favorable elements. The front fascia was revised to include larger air intakes, improving engine cooling and drawing attention away from the unconventional daytime running lights. Gloss black side mirrors, window surrounds, and 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels differentiated the car’s profile, while a subtle gloss black lip spoiler and a reworked rear bumper with a lower diffuser panel framed a four-outlet exhaust system. Internally, the Sonata N Line featured sport front seats with Nappa leather bolsters and Dinamica suede inserts, red stitching, aluminum pedal covers, and dark chrome accents, creating a luxurious yet sporty ambiance. A panoramic sunroof provided a two-tone exterior appearance and enhanced the cabin's spaciousness.

By comparison, the 2022 Hyundai Sonata continued the design evolution, further distancing itself from past imitations of key midsize segment leaders like the Honda Accord. The seventh-generation Sonata, redesigned for the 2020 model year, maintained distinctive styling with a wide grille, rounded front fascia, and a sloped rear roofline, which might not appeal to everyone. The interior of the 2022 model boasted a spacious cabin, clearly marked gauges, and average material quality for the segment. Particularly notable was the tan and black two-tone leather upholstery in the Limited trim, which added character to the interior. The N Line version of the 2022 Sonata featured a body kit with revised fascias, gloss black side mirrors and window surrounds, a rear spoiler, and N badging, alongside full LED taillights and dual exhaust with four outlets, transforming its look from conventional to sporty. The cabin of the N Line version continued with dark chrome trim, red stitching, N-brand sport seats, and aluminum sport pedals, maintaining an aggressive yet sophisticated feel.

Performance
2021 Hyundai Sonata
9/10
2022 Hyundai Sonata
8/10

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line’s performance was anchored by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, yielding 290 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 311 pound-feet of torque from 1,650 to 4,000 rpm, supported by an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) with paddle shifters and launch control. With driving modes such as Normal, Sport, Sport+, and Custom, and features like the Active Sound Design (ASD) engine note enhancement system and sport-tuned exhaust, the Sonata emitted a notably sporty engine sound. Additional upgrades included stiffer engine and transmission mounts, faster rack-mounted electric steering, larger front and rear brakes, and a sport-tuned suspension paired with 19-inch wheels featuring all-season or summer performance tires.

Tested on the twisting roads of Malibu’s Santa Monica Mountains, the 2021 Sonata N Line exhibited precise handling, responsive steering, and reassuring brake performance, all while maintaining an agreeable ride quality for everyday driving. The vehicle didn’t exhibit notable understeer thanks to its summer performance tires and superior suspension calibration, which also minimized body roll on curvy roads. While the EPA indicated a combined fuel economy of 27 mpg, realistic usage in varied conditions yielded an average of 23.7 mpg.

For 2022, the Hyundai Sonata’s performance spectrum ranged from practical and unassuming to aggressive and high-spirited. The base engine was a 2.5-liter four-cylinder delivering 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, while a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder offered 180 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque for the SEL Plus and Limited trims. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, and paddle shifters were standard with the 1.6-liter turbo engine.

The Sonata N Line, with its 290-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter engine and eight-speed wet DCT, sport suspension, and tuned exhaust, provided a lively and engaging driving experience. Across the model range, ride quality and noise suppression remained satisfactory, even under more demanding conditions. Although all Sonatas were front-wheel drive (FWD), the powertrain and suspension harmonized to deliver competent and enjoyable driving dynamics.

Form and function
2021 Hyundai Sonata
8/10
2022 Hyundai Sonata
7/10

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line’s interior balanced sportiness and comfort. Heated front sport seats with Dinamica suede inserts provided supportive comfort without excessive bolstering. Both front seats featured a manual height adjuster for added convenience, and rear seat accommodations, while comfortable, were best suited for short trips due to limited thigh support. The rear also offered air conditioning vents and a USB port, with a panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of space.

In terms of cargo, the 2021 Sonata N Line had a roomy 16-cubic-foot trunk, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat expanding utility. The Smart Trunk hands-free release feature was especially practical, automatically opening the lid after standing near the back of the car for three seconds.

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata boasted 104.4 cubic feet of passenger space, which the EPA classified as “Large Car,” putting it alongside models like the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger. Front-seat headroom and legroom were among the best in the class, while shoulder room and rear-seat space were adequate for two adults. The rear seat space was notably compromised when accommodating a third passenger.

The Sonata’s trunk capacity also measured 16 cubic feet but featured the additional amenity of Remote Smart Parking Assist on the Limited trim, allowing the car to maneuver into tight spots via the key fob.

Technology
2021 Hyundai Sonata
7/10
2022 Hyundai Sonata
7/10

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line’s technology suite included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel paired with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, standard navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a satisfactory Bose premium sound system. This system also offered HD Radio, SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year subscription to Blue Link services. However, it did not include a WiFi hotspot, and the lack of a tuning knob presented a usability challenge. Additionally, Hyundai Digital Key was standard but only compatible with Android devices.

On the other hand, the 2022 Hyundai Sonata’s infotainment offerings varied by trim level. The base SE trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen, six speakers, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Moving up, the SEL added SiriusXM and Blue Link services. Higher trims, including SEL Plus, Limited, and N Line, upgraded to a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and wireless charging. The 2022 model also included the Tech package standard on the SEL trim, which featured Highway Driving Assist and dynamic voice recognition, among other upgrades.

For iPhone users, pairing via Bluetooth in the 2022 Sonata was straightforward, and the Bose audio system was a highlight, offering excellent sound quality for the price.

Safety
2021 Hyundai Sonata
9/10
2022 Hyundai Sonata
9/10

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line came equipped with Hyundai's comprehensive SmartSense package, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping and lane-centering assist, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, driver-attention warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional safety features included Rear Occupant Alert, Safe Exit Warning, and Highway Drive Assist, all contributing to a reassuringly safe driving experience. While the 2021 Sonata had high safety ratings, specific ratings for the N Line were pending from NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata also offered a thorough safety suite across all trims, with standard automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, driver-attention warning, and Rear Occupant Alert. The SEL trim added blind-spot collision-avoidance and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Limited trim included a blind-spot view monitor and surround-view monitor. NHTSA awarded the 2022 Sonata five stars for overall crash protection, and IIHS provided top ratings for the 2021 model’s structural crashworthiness and safety technology.

CarGurus logo

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.