The 2024 Hyundai Sonata gets a mostly cosmetic makeover. There's a new look for the sedan's nose and tail; ultramodern headlights; a wide, rectangular display screen that reaches from the steering wheel across the center console; over-the-air update capability.
The Sonata is fairly roomy, with good driver visibility in spite of its rakish lines. The driving position isn’t quite as upright as in most sedans, but the power-seat adjustments let drivers of all sizes get comfortable behind the wheel. Seat support is fine on shorter jaunts but fades on longer trips, contributing to fatigue. And the hard center console can rub uncomfortably against the driver’s right knee.
The cabin looks modern, with sleek piano black surfaces, but the controls are a mixed bag. The infotainment system is well-designed, and 2024 versions get a column-mounted twist-style gear selector that we prefer over the old push-button version. A large 12.3-inch infotainment system comes on all trims. The option list is quite comprehensive. It’s quite easy to get heated seats, a power driver’s seat, and automatic climate control in a basic version.
The Sonata is quite capable when driven briskly, and it negotiated our accident avoidance course with impressive speed. The ride is a touch firm and the engine tends to sound raspy at high revs.
The hybrid version gets an excellent 44 mpg overall, and can drive on electric power at low speeds, but the transmission delivers rough shifts.
The standard 191-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing unobtrusive, predictable power and very good fuel economy at 31 mpg overall.
Standard advanced safety features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and lane keeping assistance, which does a good job keeping the Sonata centered in its lane. The adaptive cruise control and lane centering features are a convenience in stop-and-go traffic. There is an optional self-parking feature that can drive the car straight into and out of a tight perpendicular parking spot, sparing you from door dings and struggling to climb in. This is especially helpful with snug garage parking.