2022 Hyundai Sonata Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata is an attractive offering in the midsize sedan market. There are many things that this vehicle gets right, as well as a few things that it falls short on. This sedan is actually in its seventh generation already, which kicked off in 2020. Moving into 2022, buyers may be wondering if the Sonata is a smart buy. Determining the answer to that requires comparing its pros to its cons.

What's New for 2022?

A brand-new N-Line Night Edition package makes its debut in 2022. It blacks out the exterior of the sedan for a more aggressive look. Hyundai first introduced this package for its Kona SUV. The SEL Plus trim of the Sonata gains more standard equipment, namely a panoramic sunroof and navigation system. For the Limited trim, an upgrade to the voice recognition software may make it even easier for drivers to use. Otherwise, the Sonata marches into 2022 largely the same as it was in 2021.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Hyundai Sonata – The Pros

1. Luxury Interior at a Non-Luxury Price

Shoppers who want a luxurious experience without shelling out luxury prices will love the 2022 Sonata. All of the materials used throughout the cabin are high-quality, and there is a noticeable lack of hard plastics. The dashboard was designed to be ergonomic and has a straightforward design that will remind buyers of far more expensive sedan options on the market. Although synthetic and genuine leather upholsteries are reserved for the top trims, the lower ones have attractive and comfortable cloth.

2. Excellent Fuel Economy

The base engine for the 2022 Sonata is estimated to get 27mpg in the city and 37mpg on the highway. Upgrading to the optional turbo 1.6L has no impact on these numbers. These are impressive numbers for non-hybrid powertrains. All models of the 2022 Sonata come equipped with front-wheel drive, and both engines mentioned pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly.

3. Available as a Hybrid

There are three hybrid trim levels available for the 2022 Sonata. Drivers who choose the first one, known as the Blue, can expect to get 50mpg while in the city and 54mpg on the highway. The other two trims, known as the SEL and Limited, are estimated to get 45mpg city and 51mpg highway. Either set of numbers will have drivers smiling.

4. User-Friendly Infotainment System and Tech

It is not enough to simply have a long list of technology. Drivers are after a car that has intuitive features that they will actually use. Luckily, the 2022 Sonata has one of the most user-friendly infotainment systems around. An 8-inch touchscreen comes standard, along with the all-important Android Auto and Apple CarPlay features. Many models are equipped with sophisticated upgrades such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless device charging, and a premium 12-speaker sound system. Blue Link, a service that offers monthly vehicle reports and other remote services, is available on top trims.

5. Exciting N-Line Model Available

For those who want a thrill when they hit the gas, the 2022 Sonata N Line is the way to go. Its standard turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder engine is capable of making 290-horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Like the other engines, it pairs with an eight-speed automatic, but this one has the dual-clutch feature. To really get a sense of how powerful the N Line is, consider the fact that the standard engine makes 191-horsepower, and the other turbo is pumping out only 180-horsepower. Also adding the athleticness of the N Line is the sport-tuned suspension. Inside, this unique trim gets sport front seats with additional bolstering.

6. Impressive Hyundai Standard Warranty

When buyers have already settled on a vehicle type, such as a midsize sedan, it is the Hyundai warranty that often seals the deal. When comparing the Sonata to most of its main rivals, drivers will find that it gives them significantly more coverage. The 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty is certainly appealing, as well as the five-year or 60,000-mile limited comprehensive warranty.

7. Generous Trunk and Small Item Storage

Just because a driver has chosen a sedan does not mean they are not concerned about cargo space and overall practicality. The 2022 Sonata has a 16 cubic foot trunk, which is quite large for its class. There are also many cubby spots inside the cabin for drivers to discover. They are perfect for smaller items, such as sunglasses, chargers, and other day-to-day necessities.

8. Sleek Exterior Look

While many other sedans seem like they are trying to blend in, the Sonata was clearly designed to turn heads instead. Standard LED daytime running lights and headlights help this vehicle announce its arrival. If buyers opt for the top-of-the-line Limited model, they will find matrix-style LEd headlights for an even more aggressive look. The Sonata is available in bold colors such as Calypso Red and Phantom Black.

9. Comfortable and Spacious Front Seats

The driver and their front passenger will be happy to ride around in the 2022 Sonata. Supportive and plush front seats are found in all trim levels. There is also plenty of head and legroom found here. As a bonus, the cabin of the Sonata does an excellent job of keeping out the road noise, further adding to the comfort of the journey.

10. Great Value for the Money

One thing that nearly every Hyundai vehicle has going for it is its value. This is certainly true of the 2022 Sonata, which has a standard feature list that includes alloy wheels, smartphone integration, and a full suite of advanced safety features. The base price of this vehicle is below that of many of its rivals. Even the top trim is a bit more affordable than that of its competitors.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Hyundai Sonata – The Cons

1. Standard Engine is Mediocre

The N Line model of the Sonata is a fun, thrilling sedan. Every other model? Not so much. Despite offering up a decent amount of power on paper, the experience at the wheel is disappointing, especially when trying to accelerate quickly. Going with the turbocharged 1.6L does little to fix the problem. On the other hand, the fuel economy of these two engines may be enough for drivers to forgive the Sonata for its lack of excitement.

2. Backseats are Cramped

Those Sonata front seats are amazing. Sitting in the back will not be quite as fun, however. While there is a good amount of headroom, the legroom is noticeably lacking. This will make it hard for the sedan to grow with families. Many of the Sonata's rivals are more spacious. If a shopper is looking for a personal commuter and rarely has more than one passenger, the Sonata may still be a contender.

3. Ride Feels Firm

A lack of power is not the only complaint that people have when it comes to the 2022 Sonata. The firm ride of this vehicle means that the bumps on the road are felt inside of the cabin. A more balanced ride would make the Sonata a more appealing option for road trips, and even for shorter journeys around town.

4. No All-Wheel Drive Available

This may seem a bit picky - after all, there are several sedans that are not available with AWD. Still, there are a couple of Sonata rivals that do offer it. If this Hyundai Sonata wants to be the top choice, the ability to upgrade the drivetrain will go a long way.

 

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2022 Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry has been a favorite in the midsize sedan category for decades. It has many things in common with the Sonata, including impressive safety and technology features. The Camry also maintains excellent fuel economy while giving drivers more power and excitement at the wheel. All-wheel drive is an option for the Camry as well. On the other hand, the Sonata has a larger trunk and a more impressive warranty to offer.

2022 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2022 Nissan Altima

Another midsize sedan worth consideration in 2022 is the Nissan Altima. Unlike the Sonata, the Altima is another one of the options available with all-wheel drive. It also has a more comfortable ride quality overall while still being an efficient option. In favor of the Sonata are factors like the warranty and build quality. The outward visibility is also better in the Hyundai sedan.

Conclusion

Overall, the 2022 Hyundai Sonata would be considered a smart buy. The fuel economy, available hybrid, and value of this vehicle make it quite appealing, especially when the warranty is considered as well. Hyundai will need to take steps toward making the dynamics of the vehicle sportier, however, which is something they have been trying to accomplish for a while. They may also want to consider a redesign that allows for more legroom in the backseat to help the Sonata appeal to families.