Used 2012 Hyundai Sonata Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
LOVE THE BANG-FOR-BUCK
I traded-in an '09 Malibu for my first non-GM car. The 4cyl Malibu produced 169hp with an EPA 29 hwy, which was exactly what I got (without a good tailwind). I looked at the V-6 Malibu (base $28k, 252hp, 26 mpg hwy). Then I discovered the Sonata. I was out the door with a 2.0T SE with 274hp/269 lb-ft torque and an EPA 34hwy for under $26k. After 4000 miles with the Sonata, I am extremely satisfied. CONTRARY TO OTHER REVIEWS, the 34 mpg hwy is very realistic if you can control your right foot. The turbo engages just above 2000 rpm and it will drink gas (but it's fun!). I have never driven a car with a better combination of performance and economy for less than $26,000.
DON’T PURCHASE THIS CAR!
I purchased this 2012 model used in 2014. It was in great condition, or so what seemed to be, and I was incredibly excited to own it. Looked and felt great, good gas mileage, low miles, great safety ratings, records showed previous owner kept up with regular maintenance, no accidents, luxury style interior. However, everything started falling apart within 2 years. First, the navigation went out, then Bluetooth, then the A/C stopped working, leather interior started wearing badly-like it was cheap, breaks began squeaking and exterior trim started getting strange fading spots. But the worst of all - the Engine BLEW after owning it less than 3 years. I discovered there was a engine recall for over 100,000 of these models. I’ve never owned a car with more problems. I took such good care of this car and did minimal driving with it, but it still failed me. The trade in value after all of this left me owing more than it was worth, so needless to say, I took a big loss on it. Save yourself the time, money and stress and look spend a bit more for a better car. I would aim for a Honda, Toyota or Nissan. Hyundai’s are off my list for good.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
- SE SedanMSRP: $5,422228 mi away
- Limited SedanMSRP: $8,790302 mi away
- GLS PZEV SedanMSRP: $6,24061 mi away
Ooops ...
This model of Sonata is miserable failure. I do not know from where to start. Before I purchased it, I drove it three times just to make sure it does not have that pull to the left issue. Unfortunately, after 10k miles I have front tires uneven wear. Dealer states that nothing is wrong with tires although even 1st grader would see difference between even and uneven tire wear. Contacted Hyundai and they refused any responsibility. Rest assured - they will make sure you don't get solution to tire (?) problem. I did not notice it before but steering wheel is not placed centered to the driver's seat. It is at about 1 inch offset to the left. Radiator leaked at 10k miles. Fixed under warranty.
Engine failed 72K, no help from Hyundai
The lower end of my 2.4 L Sonata failed at 72500 miles under normal driving conditiuons. It has had an oil change every 5000 miles. Because I am not the original owner, the warranty did not apply. The dealer was very nice and sold me a used engine at full price. Hyundai USA declined to help me in any way. No care should have this type of engine failure at this mileage unless completely neglected.
Good, Solid, Fun
I have 20,000 miles on my new Sonata. It's been a great car to drive so far with no major issues. I've obtained fantastic gas mileage (37mpg) by combining the ECO mode, cruise control and a nice long highway. The paint is sexy and durable. The fit / finish is solid without any noticeable defects. I've been completely satisfied with my service crew as well.