2021 Hyundai Sonata is a midsize sedan that offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior, advanced technology, and safety features, and a range of engine options that provide both efficient and powerful performance.
The Sonata has earned high safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS and is available in multiple trim levels, with a range of customization options available. The Sonata competes with other midsize sedans such as the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Mazda6.
2021 Hyundai Sonata Introduction
The Hyundai Sonata is a mid-size sedan that was first introduced by the South Korean automaker Hyundai in 1985. The Sonata has gained popularity over the years for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and a range of features at an affordable price point.
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata marked the beginning of the model’s eighth generation, showcasing a completely redesigned exterior and interior compared to its predecessor. The new Sonata boasts a more distinctive and bold look, characterized by its “Sensuous Sportiness” design language, which emphasizes sleek lines and a coupe-like silhouette.
One of the standout features of the 2021 Sonata is its innovative lighting system called “Hidden Lighting Lamps.” These lamps are integrated into the chrome strip that connects the car’s grille and headlights, creating a striking and seamless visual effect.
Inside the cabin, the 2021 Sonata offers a driver-focused cockpit with a clean and modern design. The center console features a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which can be upgraded to a larger 10.25-inch display. The car also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless smartphone integration.
In terms of powertrain options, the 2021 Sonata offers a range of engines to suit different driving preferences. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that delivers 191 horsepower, while a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is available, producing 180 horsepower. Both engines are paired with an eight speed auto transmission.
2021 Hyundai Sonata Exterior Design
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata features a bold and distinctive exterior design that sets it apart from its competitors. Hyundai adopted its “Sensuous Sportiness” design language for the Sonata, which emphasizes sleek lines, a coupe-like silhouette, and a sense of dynamism.
At the front, the Sonata showcases a wide, cascading grille that seamlessly integrates with the headlights. The grille is flanked by sleek, LED headlights with a unique lighting signature. One of the notable design elements is the “Hidden Lighting Lamps” feature, where the LED daytime running lights are hidden within the chrome strip that connects the grille and the headlights. This creates a visually striking effect, as the lights are only visible when they are turned on.
Moving along the side of the vehicle, the Sonata features a sloping roofline that gives it a more coupe-like appearance. The roofline smoothly flows into the rear of the car, emphasizing its sporty and aerodynamic profile. The Sonata’s body lines are clean and sculpted, enhancing its overall sense of elegance and sophistication.
At the rear, the Sonata showcases a distinctive full-width taillight design that extends across the trunk lid. The taillights feature LED technology and provide a sleek and modern look. The Sonata’s rear bumper is, also well-integrated and complements the overall design with its clean lines and a subtle diffuser-like element.
2021 Hyundai Sonata Interior Comfort and Technology
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata offers a comfortable and modern interior that is, designed to enhance the driving experience and provide a high level of convenience and technology.
The cabin of the Sonata is, spacious and well-appointed, offering ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with available options such as leather upholstery and power-adjustable seats for added comfort. The Sonata can accommodate up to five passengers, making it suitable for both daily commuting and longer journeys.
In terms of technology, the 2021 Sonata comes equipped with a range of features to keep drivers and passengers connected and entertained. The standard infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display, while a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen is, available on higher trim levels. The infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration of smartphones for accessing apps, music, and navigation.
The Sonata also offers a digital instrument cluster, which provides essential driving information in a clear and customizable format. This feature enhances visibility and convenience for the driver. Additionally, the Sonata features a head-up display that projects key information, such as speed and navigation instructions, onto the windshield, reducing the need for the driver to take their eyes off the road.
For audiophiles, the Sonata offers an available premium sound system by Bose, providing high-quality audio throughout the cabin. The available wireless charging pad allows for convenient charging of compatible smartphones without the need for cables.
2021 Hyundai Sonata Performance and Efficiency
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata offers a range of powertrain options that balance performance and efficiency to suit different driving preferences.
The standard engine in the Sonata is, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It delivers 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for daily commuting and highway driving. This engine is, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which offers smooth and efficient shifting.
For those seeking a more spirited driving experience, the Sonata also offers a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. Produces 180 horsepower & 195 lb-ft of torque. This turbocharged engine provides responsive acceleration and enhanced passing power. Like the standard engine, the turbocharged engine is, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Both engines in the Sonata offer competitive fuel efficiency. The 2.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged 1.6-liter engine delivers slightly higher efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. These fuel economy figures make the Sonata a fuel-efficient choice in its class.
In addition to the engine options, the Sonata features selectable drive modes, allowing drivers to customize the driving experience to their preference. The available drive modes include Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart. Comfort mode prioritizes smoothness and a more relaxed driving experience, while Sport mode enhances throttle response and provides a more engaging driving feel. Eco mode optimizes fuel efficiency, and Smart mode automatically adjusts settings based on driving conditions and driver behavior.
Safety Features
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata is, equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features and driver-assistance technologies designed to enhance occupant protection and help prevent accidents. Here are some of the notable safety features available in the Sonata:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): This system uses radar and camera sensors to detect potential frontal collisions with vehicles or pedestrians. It can provide visual and audible warnings and automatically apply the brakes if necessary to mitigate or avoid a collision.
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): LKA helps prevent unintentional lane departure by monitoring the Sonata’s position on the road. If the vehicle starts to drift out of its lane without signaling, the system provides steering assistance to help keep the Sonata in its lane.
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA): BCA uses radar sensors to monitor the Sonata’s blind spots. If another vehicle is detected in the blind spot, the system provides visual and audible warnings.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA): RCCA uses the rear radar sensors to detect approaching vehicles from the sides while reversing. It provides visual and audible warnings to alert the driver and can automatically apply the brakes if a potential collision is, detected.
- Driver Attention Warning (DAW): DAW monitors the driver’s behavior and provides alerts if signs of drowsiness or inattentiveness are detected.
- Smart Cruise Control (SCC): SCC uses radar sensors to maintain a set distance and speed from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting the Sonata’s speed to match traffic conditions. It can bring the vehicle to a complete stop and resume driving when traffic begins to move.
- Safe Exit Assist (SEA): SEA detects vehicles approaching from the rear and alerts occupants if it is, unsafe to open the doors. This feature helps prevent collisions with oncoming traffic when exiting the vehicle.
Conclusion
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata is, a mid-size sedan that offers a winning combination of style, comfort, technology, and safety. With its bold and distinctive exterior design, the Sonata stands out on the road, showcasing Hyundai’s “Sensuous Sportiness” design language. Inside, the Sonata provides a spacious and well-appointed cabin that is, both comfortable and modern.
The Sonata offers a range of advanced technology features, including an intuitive infotainment system with available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a digital instrument cluster, and a head-up display. These features keep drivers connected and informed while prioritizing safety and minimizing distractions.
Speaking of safety, the Sonata comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, such as forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, and more. These features work together to enhance occupant protection and help prevent accidents, making the Sonata a reliable and safe choice.
In terms of performance, the Sonata offers a choice of engines that balance power and efficiency. Whether opting for the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, drivers can expect a smooth and responsive driving experience with good fuel efficiency.
