When it comes to choosing a reliable and stylish mid-size sedan, the Hyundai Sonata often enters the conversation. But what’s it really like to live with one day in and day out? We’ve spent considerable time behind the wheel of a 2023 Hyundai Sonata SEL, not just for a typical week-long test drive, but for over 15,000 miles as an actual owner. This in-depth review dives into the real-world ownership experience, exploring the features that initially drew us to the Sonata, the aspects we’ve genuinely enjoyed, and, importantly, the shortcomings we’ve encountered along the way. If you’re considering a Hyundai Sonata, this comprehensive review provides insights beyond the typical showroom appraisal.
The Appeal of Simplicity and Sensibility
Choosing a new vehicle involves navigating a sea of options, each promising the perfect blend of features and value. For us, the search began with a need for practicality and efficiency. Replacing a 2008 Ford Mustang Bullitt – a car with very different priorities – meant focusing on fuel economy for a lengthy daily commute and ample passenger space to comfortably accommodate family.
Initial considerations included the Honda Accord, a perennial favorite in the mid-size sedan segment. However, the Accord’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) was a point of hesitation. Many CVTs exhibit a less engaging, almost elastic driving feel, and long-term reliability concerns have been noted with some designs. The Toyota Camry, another segment leader, while undeniably reliable, had become almost too ubiquitous. Its sheer commonality lacked a certain personal appeal.
It was the 2023 Hyundai Sonata that ultimately captured our attention. It offered a refreshing alternative, less commonplace than the Camry and possessing an understated yet sophisticated design. The Sonata’s powertrain configuration also presented a straightforward appeal: a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter Smartstream four-cylinder engine running on regular gasoline, paired with a conventional eight-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. This combination promised simplicity and reliability, avoiding the complexities of turbocharging, all-wheel drive, or the sometimes-polarizing nature of CVTs. For daily driving, especially in traffic, the traditional automatic offered a familiar and comfortable experience. Adding to the appeal was the availability at a local dealership of a Sonata in Serenity White with a light gray cloth interior – a particularly desirable combination for warmer climates, and one that quickly led to a purchase.
Finding the Sweet Spot: SEL Trim with Convenience
Opting for a new car is often a balance between desires and practicality. Moving from the base Sonata SE trim to the SEL represented a strategic step up, offering a more refined experience without venturing into the higher, more expensive trim levels. The decision to add the Convenience Package to the SEL trim proved particularly beneficial, enhancing both the daily commute and passenger comfort.
The Convenience Package brought a suite of desirable features, including a convenient wireless charging pad for smartphones, a panoramic sunroof that brightens the cabin, and rear-seat HVAC vents to ensure passenger comfort in all climates. Beyond these headline features, the package also included welcome additions like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, adding a touch of luxury to the driving experience, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, providing a modern and customizable display of vehicle information. This trim and package combination effectively elevated the Sonata beyond a basic model, striking a balance between essential features and desirable upgrades.
Practicality Doesn’t Mean Blandness: Sonata Design
The Hyundai Sonata is positioned as a mass-market, practical sedan, prioritizing affordability and functionality. It’s not aiming to compete with luxury marques like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class or high-performance models such as the BMW M5. It is, in essence, a reliable appliance for daily transportation. However, Hyundai has successfully avoided the pitfall of creating a completely generic and uninspired design.
The Sonata embraces what Hyundai terms “Sensuous Sportiness,” a design language that aims to inject visual interest into a practical form. A key design element is the striking metallic trim that traces the window line, extends along the hood, and culminates in sharp points beneath the LED headlights. This trim seamlessly integrates into the LED Daytime Running Lights, which feature Hidden Lighting Lamps that create a chrome-like appearance when not illuminated. While the front grille, sometimes described as a “catfish mouth,” might be a point of subjective debate, it undeniably contributes to the Sonata’s distinctive front fascia.
Moving to the rear, the Sonata’s design is more universally praised. The trunk lid flows smoothly into an integrated spoiler, and the C-shaped LED taillights, connected by a light bar, create a modern and almost futuristic aesthetic, particularly at night. Even in the lower SEL trim, the 17-inch wheels are far from basic. They feature a dynamic design and an attractive two-tone finish, adding a touch of visual flair that belies the car’s practical positioning.
Everyday Excellence: Living with the Sonata
While the Sonata might not have been a childhood dream car, it has proven to be precisely the vehicle needed for current daily life. Prioritizing practicality over outright excitement was a conscious choice, shifting from a less technologically advanced, older V8 Mustang to a modern, efficient sedan. For the daily commute and routine tasks, the Sonata excels.
The MyHyundai with Bluelink app has become an indispensable tool, particularly in extreme temperatures. Remotely starting the car and setting the climate control to a comfortable temperature before even stepping outside is a significant convenience. Customizable presets within the app streamline this process. Features like the hands-free smart trunk, which automatically opens when you stand near it with the key fob, and touch-sensitive door handles for unlocking, add further ease to daily routines. The rearview camera and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist enhance safety and reduce stress when maneuvering in tight spaces.
Once on the road, the Sonata provides a comfortable and user-friendly environment. The cabin feels spacious, aided by the light-colored A-pillar trim and headliner. The interior materials and controls feel well-made and substantial. The infotainment system is intuitive, with a well-integrated 10.25-inch touchscreen and physical controls for essential functions like volume. While a tuning knob would be a welcome addition, the logical placement of all controls minimizes distraction. Wired Apple CarPlay integration is seamless, and features like Brake Hold are invaluable in stop-and-go traffic, further enhancing the ease of daily driving.
Areas for Improvement: Sonata Shortcomings
No car is without its imperfections, and the Sonata is no exception. While the overall ownership experience has been positive, certain aspects could be improved. The remote start range using the key fob is limited, often necessitating the use of the smartphone app for reliable remote starting. The 2.5-liter engine, while fuel-efficient, delivering over 35 mpg consistently, is not particularly powerful. With 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, acceleration is adequate for daily driving, but lacks enthusiasm. The engine can sound strained and somewhat coarse when pushed harder, especially during acceleration.
The eight-speed automatic transmission generally performs well, but occasionally exhibits minor awkwardness in its shifts. A notable omission is the lack of manual shift control. Despite the push-button gear selector, there are no paddle shifters or manual shift buttons, limiting driver engagement and control in situations where manual gear selection might be desired.
Ride comfort, while generally acceptable, can become somewhat firm on rougher road surfaces. Longer road trips on less-than-perfect highways can reveal the suspension’s limitations in absorbing larger bumps and imperfections. While suitable for typical daily driving, those prioritizing ultimate ride comfort might find the Sonata’s suspension tuning a bit less forgiving.
Final Verdict: A Satisfying and Sensible Choice
After 15,000 miles of real-world ownership, the 2023 Hyundai Sonata SEL has proven to be a satisfying and sensible purchase. The peace of mind provided by Hyundai’s generous 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty is a significant benefit. More importantly, the Sonata excels at fulfilling its intended purpose: providing comfortable, efficient, and well-equipped transportation for daily life. It strikes a compelling balance of style, features, and value in the competitive mid-size sedan segment.
Do you own a Hyundai Sonata? Share your ownership experiences and thoughts in the comments below!
