Overview Hyundai Sonata 2022
The 2022 Hyundai Sonata is a family sedan that is both visually interesting and very good value for money. Hyundai's mid-range comes in a variety of flavors, from well-appointed entry-level versions to a trio of budget hybrids and a screaming performance model. While the latter's 290-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and sports suspension might invigorate shopping sprees, the rest of the Sonata range is less exciting from a driver's perspective. Instead, the sedan impresses with a variety of standard driver assistance systems and a luxurious interior that is packed with popular technical features. Its comfortable seats and roomy accommodations offset its firm handling, which is more pronounced on the N-Line performance model. Although the 2022 Sonata is not as satisfying to drive as, say, the Honda Accord, it is still a top pick in its class and one of our editors' picks.
What's New for 2022?
For 2022, Hyundai will not make any significant changes to the Sonata lineup. The only difference between this year's model and the previous one is the addition of the Night Edition, but this is only offered on the sporty N-Line trim. This Blacked Out Appearance Package was also introduced to the Hyundai Kona in a limited edition.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
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Not only is the SEL Plus model the most affordable way to get an upgraded 180hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, it's also the only Sonata to currently come with 19-inch wheels and upgraded all-season tires. It also gets a 12.3-inch all-digital instrument cluster, leather and microsuede upholstery, rear-seat air vents, and USB ports and wireless charging. We'll also pick our favorite Sonata with the tech package. It adds a 12-speaker Bose stereo, 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, panoramic sunroof and semi-autonomous driving mode.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Sonata isn't the sharpest handlebar in its class—we prefer the Accord and Nissan Altima—but it's still cool and responsive on the road. The ride was a little faster than we'd like and faster than most cars in this category, but the Sonata is at least fast enough with its 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. During our tests, the Sonata with this drivetrain reached 60 mph in 7.3 seconds, an acceptable result in this class. The shifting of the eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth and timely. We would also like to congratulate Hyundai for continuing to offer the traditional automatic transmission in its family sedan. Most classes have switched to the rapidly growing (but efficient) continuously variable automatic transmissions (CVTs). During our time with the hybrid Sonata, which combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with an engine-generator producing 192 horsepower, we appreciated its efforts to conserve fuel, but we didn't like it not switching smoothly between gas and petrol. and active mode power supply. The 290-hp N Line is one of the fastest front-wheel drive cars we've tested and offers a satisfying driving pleasure.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Sonata has a very economical powertrain option, with the hybrid version receiving the highest rating. The Blue Hybrid is rated up to 50 mpg in the city and 54 on the highway; Other Sonata hybrids are expected to get 45 and 51 mpg, respectively. The hybrid, which we tested on the 75-mph fuel-efficiency road that was part of our comprehensive testing program, matches the 51-mph highway rating. We also tested the 1.6-liter (36 mpg) Sonata and 2.5-liter turbocharged (33 mpg) models. For more information about Sonata's fuel economy, visit the Environmental Protection Agency's website.
Interior, comfort and cargo
The Sonata's interior is attractive and really seems worth more than the sedan's sticker price. The lower rear seats are comfortable and roomy, the material looks and feels comfortable, and the dashboard shape is simple and ergonomic. The Sonata's sixteen cubic feet of cargo space is ready for our proven midsize sedan, which is neither exceptional nor the worst in its class. However, seven pieces of hand luggage fit in the trunk, which offers enough space for long trips with the family.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The infotainment instrument is based on a medium 8.0-inch touch screen. On SEL models with the Comfort Package and SEL Plus and Limited models, there's also a default 12.3-inch instrument cluster. Hyundai's new technological gem is a feature called Digital Key, which allows owners to use the Hyundai app and their phone to enable the vehicle to use short-range communication (NFC) and perform certain vehicle functions remotely. This can allow drivers to remove the all-important rear ignition switch if carrying it around is not practical during their busy lives.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features