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2022 Hyundai Sonata - Review by Larry Nutson


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Looks good, nicely equipped

By Larry Nutson
Senior Editor and Bureau Chief
Chicago Bureau
THE AUTO CHANNEL

Hyundai sold a total of 738,081 vehicles in 2021. That’s a 19% increase compared with 2020 and the third best year in company history. Most recent January 2022 total sales of 47,872 units was a 10% increase compared with January 2021 and the highest January sales total in company history. 

The Sonata midsize 5-seat 4-door sedan had a 21% increase in total sales last year. The Sonata was all-new for 2020. For 2022 the Sonata is basically unchanged over the 2021 model save for a couple equipment updates.


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All Sonatas are front-wheel drive. SE and SEL trim levels have a 191-hp 2.5-L four cylinder engine with a torque rating of 181 lb-ft at 4000 rpm mated to an 8-speed automatic. SEL Plus and Limited trims have 180-hp 1.6-L turbo rated at 195 lb-ft at 1500-4500 also paired up with an 8-speed automatic. The noticeable difference here is in the torque output of the two engines with the 1.6-L turbo developing max torque at low RPM to deliver better acceleration.

For the performance minded an N Line trim is available with a 290-hp turbo 2.5-L mated to an 8-speed wet dual clutch transmission (DCT).

And on the economy front, a Sonata Hybrid also is available powered by a 2.0-L 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The gasoline engine is rated at 150-horsepower and mated to a 39kW electric motor for 192-horsepower total system output.

For 2022 the SE trim has new daytime running lights. On the SEL Plus the previous optional Tech Package has been made standard. Limited trims now have voice recognition. And on the N Line there’s a new Night Edition added with unique wheels, badging, spoiler and a few other bits.

Prices for the 2022 Sonata start at $24,350 for the SE and max-out at $35,550 for the Hybrid Limited. Freight charges are $1,045 additional.


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I got reacquainted with the Sonata in a recent drive in a Limited trim version finished in Quartz White with a Tan interior. The Sonata’s design is eye-catching. It sits low with an overall nicely balanced appearance. It’s also well-equipped and roomy as a family sedan should be. The trunk opening is large and there’s plenty of space inside.


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High-tech features include an easy-to-use infotainment system display, a full array of advanced driver-assist safety (ADAS) features, as well as Remote Smart Parking Assist. A favorite of mine is the blind spot display that shows in the instrument cluster the view to the rear along the left or right side when you switch on the respective turn signal. It is great to look for approaching bicyclist before making a turn.


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A panoramic sunroof, leather seating, Bose Premium audio, proximity key entry, hands-free trunk release, heated and ventilated front seats, head-up display, wireless smartphone charging pad, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are all available.

The powertrain in the Limited delivers good overall performance. This is balanced with EPA fuel economy ratings of 27 city mpg and 37 highway mpg. Dynamically, steering, braking and ride and handling have responsive and yet comfortable family-sedan characteristics.


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Hyundai’s 2019 Sonata was named the most dependable Midsize Car in the 2022 J.D. Power U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), which analyzes the long-term dependability of three-year-old models. 

More details, facts and figures can be found at www.hyundaiusa.com.

Hyundai Motor America is one of the leaders in vehicle safety, earning eight 2022 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK and TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards. The 2022 Sonata is a TOP SAFETY PICK when equipped with specific headlights.

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata is very affordable. It’s got good looks and is nicely equipped to meet the needs of many families.

Happy motoring!

© 2022 Larry Nutson, the Chicago Car Guy