2022 Hyundai Sonata

　　

2022 Hyundai Sonata Review

byKurt NiebuhrSenior Vehicle Test Editor

　　Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of zzdcar' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.

　　Over the years Hyundai's Sonata has been a consistently good pick for a sedan that's big on value. But back in 2020 it would seem Hyundai wasn't quite satisfied with just value. That's when it redesigned the Sonata and gave it a wallop of avant-garde style. Then it followed up for 2021 by cranking up the performance with the N Line version of the Sonata. Fitted with a 290-horsepower engine, the N Line sets a new midsize sport sedan benchmark.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 Hyundai Sonata SE 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 09/21 (2.5L 4cyl 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$118/mo  for Sonata SE

　　Sonata SE

　　SE 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 09/21 (2.5L 4cyl 8A) - $24,150 MSRPSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 8A) - $24,500 MSRPSEL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 8A) (Most Popular) - $26,250 MSRPSEL Plus 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $31,450 MSRPN Line 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 8AM) - $33,750 MSRPLimited 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $34,400 MSRPN Line Night Edition 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 01/22 (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 8AM) - $34,750 MSRP

　　vs

　　$165/mo

　　Avg. Midsize Car

　　The changes are comparatively small for the 2022 Hyundai Sonata. Notably, the once optional Tech package on the already value-stacked SEL Plus trim is now standard. And the recently christened N Line gets a new appearance package, known as the Night Edition, that adds a mix of matte and gloss black exterior finishes and a spritz of carbon-fiber trim.

　　Overall, the Sonata is among the best midsize sedans out and is a worthy rival to the Honda Accord, Kia K5 and Nissan Altima. Check out our Expert Rating below to get our team's full take on the Sonata's comfort, performance and more.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Good

　　8.0

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.5/10

　　How does the Sonata drive? We tested a Sonata Limited with the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. It's not exceptionally quick but the Sonata can edge out similarly powered family sedans, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.6 seconds. It doesn't have trouble keeping pace with traffic or accelerating on freeway on-ramps, but doing so requires more pressure on the gas pedal than you might be used to.

　　Steering, handling and braking are matter-of-fact, though there are some strange traits. The firm overall ride doesn't net a worthwhile handling balance. And the brake pedal emits a slight pulsation under light, constant application, like when you're heading down a gentle grade. There's nothing particular to object to, but there isn't much to praise either.

　　

Comfort

7.5/10

　　How comfortable is the Sonata? The Sonata gives the appearance of refinement, but its interior comfort comes up short of expectations. The seats are firm and lack the supple comfort and adjustment ranges found in segment leaders. The ride also falls on the firm side. The Sonata is far from uncomfortable, but it transmits bumps and impacts into the cabin that other similarly priced family sedans wouldn't. The interior is a touch louder too.

　　On the upside, the climate controls, including heated and ventilated front seats, are quiet and effective. Overall the interior gets the job done, but it doesn't go any further.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below