2020 Hyundai Sonata Review
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2020 Hyundai Sonata Review
byCameron Rogers
Senior News Editor
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.Pros
- Lots of helpful standard technology features
- Big trunk and lots of interior storage space
- Good value for the money
Cons
- Interior doesn't feel as luxurious as some rivals' cabins
- A more powerful engine upgrade isn't offered
What's new
- Redesigned for 2020
- Sharp new look inside and out
- Several new technology features
- Kicks off the seventh Sonata generation introduced for 2020
If you've seen Hyundai's TV spots for its fully redesigned 2020 Sonata, you'll likely know that Hyundai's highlighting the car's new technology features. But if you just happen to see a new Sonata on the road, you might just be equally intrigued with the car's styling. The new Sonata looks significantly sportier than it did before thanks to longer and lower dimensions, as well as an aggressively styled grille and daytime running lights that stretch up over the hood.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Hyundai Sonata SEL 4dr Sedan (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 $4.64 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$184/mo
Sonata SEL
vs
$237/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
So about that new technology ... The first headlining feature is remote parking assist, which lets you be outside the car and direct it to move forward or backward using buttons on the key fob. The car even automatically makes minor steering adjustments, so you don't have to worry about being perfectly lined up with the space. The Sonata moves very slowly in parking-assist mode, so it's not a great solution for every parking lot. But in a pinch, it means you can use spaces that would be too narrow to allow you to get in or out of the car easily.
The second new tech feature is Hyundai's digital key, an app that lets you use your phone as a key. Unfortunately, this digital key feature isn't currently compatible with iPhones. Hyundai says it's working on partnering with Apple to enable its app, but for right now it only works on Android devices.
Hyundai has also completely reworked the interior. Climate controls are simple, the high-mounted touchscreen is easy to use, and the overall look is a little less cluttered thanks to a switch from a traditional transmission lever to buttons for park, drive, etc. The cabin is also spacious, with enough room for a 6-foot passenger to fit comfortably behind a 6-foot driver.
Put it all together and you've got a midsize sedan that has what it takes to compete with the luxurious Mazda 6, sporty Kia Stinger, popular Toyota Camry and, our current favorite, the Honda Accord.
Which Sonata does Edmunds recommend?
Buyers looking for just the basics will likely find the SE sufficient, but the SEL adds a number of modern amenities for a reasonable price bump. Upgrading adds a blind-spot monitor, keyless entry and ignition, heated front seats and aggressively styled bumpers. If you or your passengers frequently have a lot of personal electronic devices onboard, the Convenience package is also worth adding for its extra USB port and wireless charging pad.
2020 Hyundai Sonata models
The 2020 Hyundai Sonata is a midsize sedan sold in four trim levels: SE, SEL, SEL Plus and Limited. The SE has a solid list of standard features, including advanced driver safety aids. The SEL and the SEL Plus are reasonably priced upgrades that add significantly more convenience features. The Limited is fairly pricey but includes all options on lower trims, plus a handful of unique items such as ventilated seats and a remote parking feature.
