Overview
The 2022 Hyundai Sonata is a family sedan that’s both visually interesting and a really good value. Hyundai’s mid-sizer comes in a variety of flavors, from well-equipped entry-level trims to a trio of thrifty hybrids to a tire-squawking performance model. While the latter’s 290-hp turbo-four engine and sporty suspension can liven up grocery runs, the rest of the Sonata line is less exciting from a driver’s perspective. Instead, the sedan impresses with an array of standard driver assists and an upscale interior that’s full of popular tech features. Its comfy seats and roomy accommodations offset its firm ride—most pronounced in the N Line performance model. Although the 2022 Sonata isn’t as satisfying to pilot as, say, the Honda Accord, it’s still one of the top options in its class.
What’s New for 2022?
For 2022, Hyundai makes no notable alterations to the Sonata lineup. The only difference between this model year and the previous one is the addition of a Night Edition, but it’s only offered on the sporty N Line trim. This blacked-out appearance package was also introduced in limited-production form on the Hyundai Kona.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Not only is the SEL Plus model the most affordable way to get the upgraded 180-hp turbo-four engine, it’s also the only Sonata that currently comes with 19-inch rims and enhanced all-season tires. It also features a 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster, leatherette and microsuede upholstery, back-seat air vents and USB port, and wireless charging. We’d option our preferred Sonata with the Tech package, too. It adds a 12-speaker Bose stereo, a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and a semi-autonomous drive mode.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Sonata is not the sharpest handler in its class—we like the Accord and the Nissan Altima better—but it’s still composed and responsive on the road. The ride is a little more unsettled than we’d like and firmer than most cars in this category, but the Sonata is at least reasonably quick with its turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. During our testing, a Sonata with that powertrain made it to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds—an acceptable result in this class. The shifts from the eight-speed automatic are smooth and well-timed. We’d also like to commend Hyundai for continuing to offer a conventional automatic transmission in its family sedan. Much of the class has gone over to droning (but efficient) continuously variable automatic transmissions (CVTs). During our time with the Sonata hybrid, we appreciated its fuel-saving efforts but disliked how it didn’t smoothly transition between gas and electric power sources. The 290-hp N Line is one of the quickest front-drive cars we’ve tested, and it provides a satisfying amount of driving verve.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Sonata has a set of highly fuel-efficient powertrains, with the hybrid versions owning the highest EPA estimates. The Blue hybrid is rated up to 50 mpg in the city and 54 on the highway, and the other hybrid Sonatas are expected to achieve 45 mpg in the city and 51 on the highway. The base 2.5-liter engine has estimates of up to 28/38 mpg city/highway; the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine sacrifices 1 mpg in both categories. On our 75-mph highway route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, the turbocharged, 1.6-liter, non-hybrid Sonata earned 31 mpg. That’s 6 mpg below the EPA’s estimate, but about on par with several similar sedans we’ve tested. For more information about the Sonata’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Sonata’s interior is attractive and feels like it’s worth more than the sedan’s sticker prices suggest. The back seat is comfortable and spacious, the materials look and feel upscale, and the dashboard layout is simple and ergonomic. The Sonata’s 16 cubic feet of cargo space is about what we expect from mid-size sedans—neither the best nor the worst in its set. Still, we fit seven of our carry-on suitcases inside its trunk, which is plenty of space for a long road trip with the family.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The infotainment system relies on an 8.0-inch center touchscreen. In SEL models with the Convenience package, SEL Plus, and Limited models, there’s also a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Hyundai’s new tech pièce de resistance is the feature it calls Digital Key, which allows owners to use Hyundai’s app and their smartphone to unlock the car using near-field communication (NFC) and operate certain vehicle functions remotely. This would allow drivers to leave the key fob behind if and when their active lifestyles made carrying one inconvenient.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Hyundai’s SmartSense package of driver-assistance features is standard, and includes automatic high-beam assist, adaptive cruise control, and a driver-attention warning that can sense drowsy or distracted driving. The Sonata can even pull in and out of a parking space while you wait for it from outside. However, that feature is reserved for the top-level Limited trim. For more information about the Sonata’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Hyundai’s warranty coverage is legendary, thanks largely to its massive powertrain warranty. The company also offers complimentary scheduled maintenance that bests mainstream rivals such as Toyota.
- Limited warranty covers five years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles
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