2021 Hyundai Sonata

2021 Hyundai Sonata Highlights

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata, now in its second year of the eighth generation, continues to challenge the dominance of stalwarts like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry in the midsize sedan segment. This latest Sonata version builds on its predecessor's strengths while introducing new features and refinements.

For 2021, Hyundai has made several upgrades across the Sonata lineup. The SEL Plus trim now offers the option of 19-inch wheels paired with Pirelli tires, providing a more dynamic appearance and handling improvements. Comfort sees an upgrade in the SEL trim, which now boasts a six-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, an improvement over the previous four-way adjustable seat.

The most notable addition to the 2021 lineup is the introduction of the sporty Sonata N Line. This performance-oriented variant injects a dose of excitement into the Sonata range, featuring a potent turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces a punchy 290 horsepower. The Sonata Hybrid offers exceptional fuel efficiency, with fuel economy reaching up to 54 mpg in specific configurations.

Key Details

• Midsize sedan body style
• Four, four-cylinder engine options: 2.5-liter naturally aspirated, 1.6-liter turbocharged, 2.5-liter turbocharged (N Line), and 2.0-liter hybrid
• Front-wheel drive
• Standard SmartSense suite of advanced safety features
• New performance-oriented N-Line trim

Benefits

• Diverse powertrain options to suit various preferences
• Impressive fuel economy, especially in hybrid models
• Spacious and well-appointed interior
• Advanced technology features, even in lower trims
• Distinctive exterior styling

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2021 Hyundai Sonata Overview

Performance

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata offers a range of powertrain options:

2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine:

• 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque
• Standard on SE and SEL trims
• Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission

1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine:

• 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque
• Standard on SEL Plus and Limited trims
• Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission

2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (N Line):

• 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque
• Exclusive to N Line trim
• Paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission

Hybrid powertrain

• 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor
• Total system output of 192 horsepower
• Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Sonata a top five-star overall safety rating. In addition, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2021 Sonata a "Top Safety Pick+" when equipped with specific headlights. This is IIHS’s second-highest safety designation.

Standard safety features across all 2021 Hyundai Sonata models include:

• Forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection
• Lane-keeping assist
• Lane-following assist
• Driver attention warning
• Automatic high beams
• Rear occupant alert

Additional safety features available on select trims include:

• Blind-spot collision-avoidance assist
• Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Highway driving assist
• Parking collision-avoidance assist - reverse
• Safe exit warning

Driving

Behind the wheel, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata offers a driving experience that balances comfort with engagement. The base 2.5-liter engine provides adequate power for daily driving, with smooth acceleration and good fuel economy. The 1.6-liter turbocharged powerplant in higher trims offers more low-end torque, making it more responsive in city driving conditions. The N Line trim significantly changes the Sonata's character, offering a much more spirited performance. While the Sonata Hybrid is no barn burner, it can hold its own during highway merging and passing.

The Sonata's steering is well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver. The suspension setup in most trims prioritizes comfort, absorbing typical road imperfections while easily handling cornering. The N Line's firmer suspension trades some comfort for improved handling and reduced body roll.

Interior

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata interior blends modern design with functionality. The interior layout is clean and intuitive, with controls logically placed and easy to reach. Material quality is impressive for the class, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas and attractive trim pieces. Both rows offer generous headroom and legroom.

Cargo space is competitive for the midsize sedan class, with 16 cubic feet of trunk space in non-hybrid models. The Sonata Hybrid's trunk is only slightly smaller at 15.8 cubic feet, thanks to battery placement.

2021 Hyundai Sonata interior features available on select trims include:

• Leather seating surfaces
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Heated steering wheel
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Bose premium audio system

Technology

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata comes well-equipped with modern technology and an intuitive infotainment system. Key features available on select trims include:

• 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
• Bluetooth hands-free phone system
• Wireless device charging
• Head-up display
• Hyundai Digital Key (use smartphone as key)
• 12-speaker Bose premium audio system
• Surround-view monitor
• Remote Smart Parking Assist

Fuel Economy

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata offers competitive fuel economy ratings for the midsize sedan segment. EPA fuel economy estimates vary depending on the engine:

2.5-liter four-cylinder:

• FWD (mpg): 28 city / 38 highway / 32 combined

1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder:

• FWD (mpg): 27 city / 37 highway / 30 combined

2.5-liter four-cylinder (N Line):

• FWD (mpg): 23 city / 33 highway / 27 combined

2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid:

• FWD (mpg)/Blue: 50 city / 54 highway / 52 combined
• FWD (mpg)/SEL and Limited: 45 city / 51 highway / 47 combined

2021 Hyundai Sonata Reviews

2021 Hyundai Sonata reviews from consumers on Kelley Blue Book are mostly positive, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 (4.1 for the hybrid). This feedback includes high marks for reliability, value, quality, performance, and comfort for the conventionally powered Sonata.

Reasons to Buy It

• Stylish exterior
• Ample cabin space with premium touches
• Exceptional fuel economy, especially for the hybrid
• An impressive array of standard and available features
• Performance-oriented N Line trim

Problems

• Some find the base engine lacking in power
• Ride quality in the N Line model may be too firm for some
• Exterior styling may be polarizing
• No all-wheel drive option
• Some advanced features are limited to higher trims

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CoPilot's Take

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata presents a compelling package in the midsize sedan segment. It successfully combines attractive styling, a comfortable and tech-rich interior, and a range of powertrain options.

The Sonata's strengths lie in its value. This family-friendly offers numerous features across its trim lineup, and standard advanced safety technology, even in lower trims, sets it apart from some competitors. The introduction of the N Line trim for 2021 broadens the Sonata's appeal, offering a genuinely sporty option for driving enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the hybrid model's excellent fuel economy makes it a standout choice for efficiency-minded buyers.

However, the Sonata isn't without its drawbacks. The base engine, while adequate, may feel underpowered to some drivers, especially compared to turbocharged options in higher trims. The lack of an all-wheel drive option may deter some buyers in regions with harsh winters. Also, while Hyundai touts a ten-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, this coverage is only valid for the original owner. Subsequent buyers will have to settle for what’s left of the five-year/60,000-mile safeguards.

2021 Hyundai Sonata FAQs

Is the 2021 Hyundai Sonata a reliable car?

Yes, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata is generally considered a reliable car. Hyundai has made significant strides in quality and reliability over the past decade, and the Sonata benefits from this improvement. The 2021 model, being in its second year of production for this generation, has had time for initial issues to be addressed. J.D. Power gives this model year an 83 out of 100 reliability score, a “great” rating.

How much should I pay for a 2021 Hyundai Sonata?

Based on CoPilot national listings, a 2021 Hyundai Sonata costs $12,000 to $29,000, depending on age, condition, and equipment.

What are the cons of a 2021 Hyundai Sonata?

While the 2021 Hyundai Sonata is generally well-regarded, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

• Base engine performance may feel underwhelming to some drivers
• No all-wheel drive option, which may be a drawback in certain climates
• The exterior styling may be polarizing and not appeal to all tastes
• Some advanced features are only available on higher, more expensive trims
• The firm ride of the N Line model might not suit all drivers
• Resale value, while improving, may not match some competitors like Honda or Toyota

What are the 2021 Hyundai Sonata configurations?

There are numerous trims available, including:

• 2021 Hyundai Sonata SE
• 2021 Hyundai Sonata SEL
• 2021 Hyundai Sonata SEL Plus
• 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line
• 2021 Hyundai Sonata Limited
• 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Blue
• 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid SEL
• 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited

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