Model Tested: 2020 Hyundai Sonata Limited
Engine: 1.6-Liter Direct Injection Turbo 4-Cylinder
Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
Horsepower: 180
Torque: 195 lb.-ft.
EPA Ratings: 27/City • 36/Highway • 31/Combined
Base Price: $33,300
As Tested: $34,625
Overview: In its quest to compete with the venerable Toyota Camry and Honda Accord to become one of America’s best-selling family sedans, the redesigned 2020 Hyundai Sonata boasts more luxury, poise, and power than ever before.
The 2020 Sonata showcases new styling and a more luxurious interior. While powerplants remain from the previous version, buyers also can upgrade to a 1.6-liter turbo-4 — which powered our test driver.
Walkaround: The new styling is most obvious from the front. Slimmer headlights, and a dramatically sloped nose, plus a quartet of hood strakes signify the departure from previous models.
Paralleling the outermost hood strakes are what appears to be another set of strakes, but are actually narrow bands of LEDs flowing from the bottom inner edge of the headlight. The leading half of these light up at night, giving the Sonata a distinctive look. The others continue along the beltline and slide around to outline the side glass area.
The rear end features a wide lower bumper with full-width lighting. Lettering on the lower edge of the trunklid spell out the Sonata name.
Interior: The Sonata’s interior is well thought out, offering logical ergonomic design. The optional 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen features navigation and most other controls. Graphics are sharp and the system’s response to tactile input is quick.
The leather seats in our Limited model test driver were comfortable and supportive, with he driver’s seat providing great visibility in all directions.
Despite the sloped roofline, there’s plenty of leg and headroom for rear-seat passengers.
Trunk space is a generous 16.0 cubic feet. Standard split-folding rear seats expand the cargo room when needed.
Behind The Wheel: The Sonata showcases a smooth, comfortable ride — not sporty handling or blistering acceleration. Heavy damping generally delivers a soft and stable ride with minimal body-roll. Steering is precise but somewhat light.
Although neither powerplant options will ever compete with the Camry’s available V-6 or the Accord’s 2.0-liter turbo-4, the Sonata quiets road and engine noise to luxury-car levels in this affordable mid-size four-door.
Bottom Line: The 2020 Hyundai Sonata doesn’t break any new performance ground, but buyers looking for handsome styling abundant features and an unbeatable value should check it out.
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