2020 Hyundai Sonata Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

With the competition in today’s midsize sedan segment being so cutthroat, Hyundai opted to completely redesign the Sonata. Not only does the 2020 Hyundai Sonata deliver a more fulfilling driving experience, but it also offers some brand-new features. For some buyers, this sedan’s stunning exterior design will be its biggest highlight. In this review, we’ll find out what’s so impressive about the latest Sonata.

What’s New for 2020?

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata is all-new. It has improved in a number of different ways. There are now four main Sonata trims: SE, SEL, Limited, and SEL Plus.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Hyundai Sonata – The Pros

1. Better Standard Powertrain

The Sonata’s previous base powertrain was a decent performer at best. Its new powertrain is definitely an upgrade. Hyundai rates the new four-cylinder engine to push out 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. A more modern eight-speed transmission replaces the Sonata’s previous six-speed transmission. These changes equate to a sedan that feels a lot more responsive. Fuel economy has also jumped. According to Hyundai, drivers can anticipate getting a combined 33 mpg using regular gas.

2. Revised Turbocharged Engine is Strong

Hyundai specifically built the Sonata’s base powertrain to save fuel. Drivers who demand a healthier punch will want the revised 1.6-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While this engine may only develop 180 horsepower, you’ll appreciate its 195 pound-feet of torque. Most of the torque is felt at low speeds, which means acceleration around town will be strong. You’ll only be giving up just a little efficiency. If you want to have a bit of fun, take advantage of the turbocharged model’s paddle shifters.

3. Improved Ride and Handling

In terms of handling, the previous Sonata was a step behind cars like the Honda Accord and the Mazda 6. However, you can expect the 2020 Hyundai Sonata to offer a more poised performance. When test driving the Sonata, you’ll notice its sportier steering feel. Improved suspension tuning and a new platform also help the Sonata to inspire more confidence around curves. Ride quality is better than ever. This sedan does a good job of isolating road vibrations.

4. Radical Styling Update

The new-look 2020 Hyundai Sonata will cause plenty of people to take a second glance. Even when sitting beside pricey European models, this sedan still holds its own. A coupe-like profile and lower stance help give to the Sonata an especially sporty character. You’ll also notice the Sonata’s cascading hood. LED taillights, which wrap around the trunk, further enhance the Sonata’s curb appeal. Larger alloy wheels are featured on the upper trims. Calypso Red and Glowing Yellow are some of the bold paint options.

5. Great Cabin Comfort

Most people will be buying the 2020 Hyundai Sonata for their family. Great cabin comfort helps make the Sonata an excellent choice. This sedan is highly recommended for tall drivers who can’t comfortably fit in a more compact car. Meanwhile, even adults will enjoy the backseat’s roominess. You’ll love taking the Sonata on long rides. A mass of luggage can fit in the trunk. Luxury amenities, like heated and ventilated front seats, are on the Sonata’s list of available features.

6. Still Offers Outstanding Value

With an anticipated starting price in the $25,000 to $26,000 range, the 2020 Hyundai Sonata remains an affordable choice. This means the Sonata is a bit less expensive than the Toyota Camry. You’ll also appreciate Hyundai’s great warranty package, which is better than what you get from most automakers. Its bumper-to-bumper warranty covers you for 60,000 miles. Meanwhile, a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty protects the engine and transmission. Popular features, like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone support and automatic high-beam assist, are standard.

7. Remote Smart Parking Assist

For 2020, Hyundai has introduced a new Remote Smart Parking Assist system. This is typically a feature only found on high-end luxury models. By simply pressing a button on the key fob, Remote Smart Parking Assist allows the Sonata to automatically park itself. However, you don’t even have to be inside the car. If you need to park in a narrow parking area, this system allows you to exit freely without risking scraping your doors.

8. Blind-Spot View Monitor

Blind spots put you at a greater risk of being involved in an accident. This is especially true when traveling on a busy roadway. Hyundai’s new Blind-Spot View Camera enables you to better recognize unseen traffic. As you prepare to move over to the next lane, wide-angle cameras under the mirrors help improve your field of vision. A live video feed instantly pops up in the instrument panel. Expect this system to be more effective than a regular blind-spot detector.

9. A Lot More Premium Features Available

This year, Sonata buyers will have a few more premium features to choose from. If you enjoy traveling, take advantage of the Sonata’s new 10.25-inch display with navigation. For the first time, the Sonata is available with a fully digital gauge cluster. You can customize it by changing the screen’s layout and colors. Some of the other big highlights include an upgraded Bose sound system, a color head-up display, and smartphone vehicle control.

10. Loaded With Safety Technologies

Whether you choose the base model or the range-topping trim, you’ll enjoy helpful safety technologies. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist comes standard, which is programmed to activate your brakes when approaching unexpected obstructions. Pedestrian alert, lane-keep assist, and smart cruise are standard as well. Highway Driving Assist is optional. This system automatically keeps the Sonata centered in its lane and adjusts your speed when traffic starts to slow.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Hyundai Sonata – The Cons

1. Not as Quick as the Competition

Most people should enjoy the Sonata’s improved driving experience. Nevertheless, some car shoppers will want more power under the hood. Last year’s range-topping engine is no longer offered. Driving enthusiasts may miss its 245-horsepower production. Expect the turbocharged Sonata to hit 60 mph in about 6.7 seconds. While acceleration is responsive, the Sonata can’t keep up with rivals like the Accord.

2. All-Wheel Drive Not Offered

As usual, the Sonata continues to use a front-wheel-drive system. For the overwhelming majority of buyers, this will be a non-issue. On the other hand, this sedan’s performance will suffer during wintry conditions. All-wheel drive would make the Sonata a better option for folks living in the Snowbelt. If you absolutely need an AWD system, test drive the Subaru Legacy and the Nissan Altima.

3. Unknown Reliability

Every year, Hyundai has steadily improved the quality of its vehicles. The previous-generation Sonata was quite dependable. With the 2020 Hyundai Sonata being an all-new model, it’s hard to predict its long-term reliability.

4. Exterior May Be Too Bold for Some People

In regard to exterior styling, the 2020 Hyundai Sonata is far from being a Plain Jane. Some people praise the new Sonata for its stunning design. However, some folks may want a car that doesn’t draw as much attention.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2020 Toyota Camry

When shopping for a family sedan. You’ll likely be comparing the 2020 Hyundai Sonata to the 2020 Toyota Camry. Automotive critics praise the Camry for its great reliability and impressive performance capabilities. However, it does not offer some of the Sonata’s new features. A few of the Sonata’s exclusive upgrades include a Blind-Spot View Monitor, a self-parking system, and a fully digital gauge cluster. Some people may also prefer the Sonata’s exterior styling.

2020 Honda Accord

The 2020 Honda Accord is expected to remain a popular pick. It’s one of the few cars in the class that still allows you to experience the fun of a manual transmission. While the Accord is a fine automobile, it does not offer some of the Sonata’s luxurious features. A much shorter warranty also puts the Accord at a disadvantage.

2020 Ford Fusion

There’s a lot to like about the Ford Fusion, including an optional AWD system. However, its base engine is on the weak side. Aside from not feeling quite as luxurious as the new Sonata, the Fusion has a tighter rear seat. In comparison to the competition, fuel economy estimates for the Fusion are a bit low.

Conclusion

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata has taken a serious step toward the segment’s top spot. It already provided a class-leading warranty. However, jaw-dropping styling and an extensive list of high-tech features make the latest Sonata more appealing. Expect the range-topping Sonata SEL Plus trim to feel like a true luxury car.

While there are many upsides to the new Sonata, be aware of its potential drawbacks. The lack of an all-wheel drive system certainly hurts the Sonata’s ability to tackle snowy weather. Also, none of the Sonata’s available engines reach the 200-horsepower mark. Some people may crave a zippier performance.