Could the Sonata be the Sedan to Consider?

When purchasing a new car, what are your absolute must-haves before closing a deal? The factors may not be the same for everyone, but the most sought-after features would probably be the same: safety, value for money, and comfort. Of course, having sleek, good looks is a plus too. If you’re looking for a sedan for your family that can compete with other models but is not too costly, why not consider a Hyundai Sonata? You may see that it has all the features you’re looking for in a car, and perhaps even more, price-wise. Better yet, a used Hyundai Sonata will give you the same features at a lower cost.

The Sonata is a midsize sedan manufactured by South Korean brand Hyundai. It has been in the automotive market since 1989. A redesign in 1995 increased sales, and in 2006 the Sonata’s fifth-generation release sported a new look to cater to American consumers. For the 2011 model, Hyundai did a complete makeover on the Sonata, applying its Fluidic Sculpture design language to the 22-year-old model. This significantly improved the Sonata’s appearance, giving it smoother and sleeker lines. The newest Sonata is the 2014 model release, but you can get earlier models from used car sellers and dealerships. Or, you might just get lucky and score a certified used 2014 Sonata that’s only a few months old!

The 2014 Sonata trims

The Sonata released for the 2014 model year is available in three trim levels: GLS, SE, and Limited. The GLS is the standard trim, the SE is the sport trim, and the Limited trim is considered its premium model. Among the standard equipment included in the GLS trim are cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, USB audio interface, and Hyundai’s own Blue Link telematics system, a multimedia navigation system that enables drivers to use their mobile phones to gather traffic updates and even start the car. Hyundai offers a Popular Equipment package that has added features such as LED interior lighting and a rearview camera.

The SE trim has all of the standard features but has 18-inch alloy wheels instead of the standard 16-inch ones. As the sport trim, it has a sport-tuned suspension, a rear lip spoiler, simulated carbon fiber interiors, and dual chrome exhaust tips. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather, racecar-style. The premium Limited trim has 17-inch alloy wheels and some of the sport trim’s features. Its luxury features include heated rear seats and full leather upholstery. Hyundai also offers a Limited Technology package, which includes an eight-inch touchscreen display, navigation, and a panoramic sunroof.

Performance

The 2014 Sonata GLS with a 2.4-liter engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 28 miles on a single gallon of fuel. The engine is rated at 190 horsepower with 179 pound-feet of torque. The car accelerates from zero to sixty miles per hour in about eight seconds, which is not bad for a standard family model.

Safety

The 2014 Sonata has standard safety features that are similar to other sedan models in its class, such as stability control and antilock disc brakes. The car’s Blue Link system also provides added safety features, including crash response and roadside assistance. It can also monitor speed, which is useful for parents with driving teens. The Sonata has a five-star rating for overall crash protection based on government tests.

If those features sound good to you, you can check out the Sonata in nearby dealerships for a closer look and a test drive. It may just be the car you’re looking for!

Ella Mason, an experienced freelance writer, wrote this article. Ella specialises in providing useful and engaging advice to small businesses. Follow her on Twitter @ellatmason