The 2014 Hyundai Sonata comes in three different trim levels: GLS, SE and Limited. Base modes are powered by a 190-horsepower, 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. SE models get a standard dual exhaust and make 192 horsepower. This engine has direct fuel injection and variable valve timing, which help improve gas mileage and responsiveness in real-world driving.
Step up to the sporty SE model or the luxurious Limited, and a 274-horsepower, 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine becomes optional; it makes 269 pound-feet of torque and has the drivability and output of a V6 while maintaining 4-cylinder fuel efficiency (21 mpg city, 32 highway). Both engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual control.
The Sonata also is available with a hybrid powertrain. Combining a 2.4L Atikinson cycle 4-cylinder engine, a 6-speed automatic transmission and an electric motor with a lithium polymer battery, the Sonata Hybrid manages 40 mpg on the highway. It comes in base and Limited trim.
The Sonata is one of the best-riding mid-size sedans, with respectable handling. This year's new Driver Selectable Steering system allows drivers to adjust steering effort to their expectations and includes a Sport Mode that's tuned for curvy roads and higher-speed driving. All Sonatas include a 4-wheel independent suspension and while SE models have a somewhat sportier tune and tires to suite that, GLS and Limited models have low-rolling-resistance tires aimed at improving fuel efficiency.
Despite its curvaceous roofline, the Sonata excels in offering plenty of passenger space in front and in back. Three adults can sit across in the back seat, and with 16.4 cubic feet of trunk space (12.1 in the hybrid), there's more space for cargo than in most other cars in this class.
The Sonata includes all the safety features that are expected today in a mid-size sedan--like electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes and side-curtain airbags. With the GLS Popular Equipment Package, or on all SE or Limited models, a rearview camera system and driver's blind spot mirror are now included. Also, Blind Spot Detection is now standard on the Limited, as well as part of the Premium Package.
Even at the base level, the Sonata comes with air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity and power accessories. The sporty SE adds heated seats and a long list of appearance upgrades; while the Sonata Limited gets automatic climate control, heated front and rear seats, and a sunroof, among many other extras.
GLS models include 6-speaker sound system with satellite-radio compatibility and iPod/USB inputs, while an upgraded system offers a 4.3-inch touch screen, HD Radio and a rearview camera. With the navigation system's upgrade and its 8-inch touch screen comes ten speakers and Dimension audio. And at the top, available in the Limited model, is an Infinity system with twelve speakers, a subwoofer and an external amp. On the latter system, you also get live weather stocks and sports data. BlueLink connectivity is included in all Sonatas, allowing subscription services to provide things like turn-by-turn navigation, automatic collision notification, and vehicle diagnostics, remote starting, a car finder and traffic information.
Fuel-efficient Powertrains
Smooth Ride
Passenger And Cargo Space
Generous Standard-feature Set
Available Hybrid Powertrain
Refined Look For 2014
Hyundai has given the Sonata a significant refresh for 2014. On the outside, the Sonata gets a set of minor enhancements, like a new grille design that flows smoothly into the rest of the design and better matches that of other recent new Hyundai models. Optional HID headlamps and LED taillights complete the updated look, along with new alloy wheel designs. Inside, the Sonata gets more sound-deadening material throughout the model line. A driver's blind-spot mirror is newly optional on GLS models, while a blind-spot detection system is a new option on SE models and standard on the Limited.
Inside, SE and Limited trims of the 2014 Sonata get a newly optional infotainment and navigation system with an 8-inch touch screen, while the standard system on those models is a 4.3-inch touch screen system with rearview camera display and HD Radio. All versions of the 2014 Hyundai Sonata get a new Driver Selectable Steering Mode, with three different levels of boost, while SE versions now include a sport exhaust system. SE versions also get a new body-colored spoiler, while both SE and Limited versions now include a leather steering wheel and fully automatic climate control.
The Sonata Hybrid also returns for 2014, similarly equipped to last year's Sonata GLS and includes revisions to the powertrain to further improve fuel economy.
The Hyundai Sonata stands out among mid-size sedans for offering one of the most generous sets of standard features. While most of its competition-- which includes the likes of the Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Nissan Maxima and Honda Accord --have been fully redesigned in the past couple of years, the Sonata is fully on par with those models. In usable interior space, cargo space, and ride comfort, the Sonata is a step ahead of many of its mid-size rivals. The Sonata has one of the best turning circles in its class, Hyundai points out; and for those who place a greater weight on fuel efficiency, there's a Sonata Hybrid that achieves EPA ratings of 38 mpg city, 40 highway.
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