2021 Hyundai Sonata – Gas vs Hybrid

Whether you’re looking for a gas-powered sedan or want to switch to a Hybrid, the Hyundai Sonata has got you covered. Which Sonata is right for you?

 

2021 Hyundai Sonata

 

SONATA SE | Price: $23,950

The entry-level edition of the 2021 Hyundai Sonata is a sharp-looking mid-size sedan. It’s packed with plenty of accessories, especially considering its low-tier entry price.

 

Some key highlights:

 

• 8-inch color touchscreen display audio
• 32 MPG Combined, 28/38
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection (FAC-Ped)

 

SONATA SEL | Price: $25,800

 

For less than $2k more, you get the same sleek Sonata look with some nice added benefits. Standards for this trim include the Hands-free smart trunk release, and 8-way power driver seat. The dual automatic temperature control adds a nice climate-controlled touch.

 

Key highlights:

 

• Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)
• Bluelink Connected Car System
• Heated front seats

 

SONATA SEL PLUS | Price: $28,300

 

This trim level is where the Sonata should beat the competition. As the Subaru Legacy, Toyota Camry and Honda Accord can’t keep up amenities-wise.

 

The SEL Plus features the class exclusive Hyundai Digital Key. The digital key lets you use your smartphone as a key. The SEL Plus also features a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.

Other Key highlights:

 

• 19-inch alloy wheels
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink
• Dinamica sued/leatherette combination seating surfaces

 

SONATA N LINE | Price: $33,300

 

With the Sonata N Line, you jump into the next pricing tier, but the amenities do rationalize the buy. Hyundai is marketing the N Line aggressively as it is set to be featured in the upcoming movie Snake Eyes.

 

Other Key highlights:

 

• N Line design leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Aluminum pedals
• Bose Premium Audio

 

SONATA LIMITED | Price: $33,950

The Hyundai Sonata’s top shelf offering has all the excellent amenities of the N Line. Both the Limited & Chrome feature window surround and chrome moldings.

 

Other Key highlights:

 

• Apple CarPlay and AndroidAuto integration for use with your smartphone
• Side mirrors with turn-signal indicators
• Wireless device charging comes standard

 

2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The Hybrid version of the Sonata comes with a steep starting point for its class. But the extra expenditure is justifiable thanks to some excellent inclusions.

SONATA HYBRID BLUE | Price: $27,750

Right out of the entry-level gate, you get to see first-hand what Hybrid cars are all about: fuel economy. The Blue features the best of its brothers, with an excellent 50/54 city/hwy fuel efficiency.

 

Other Key highlights:

 

• 6-way adjustable driver seat
• 60/40 split fold-down rear seats
• Dual automatic temperature control

 

SONATA HYBRID SEL | Price: $29,900

 

For right around a $1200 upgrade, the Hybrid SEL offers some significant improvements. 17-inch Eco-spoke wheels provide an immediate aesthetic enhancement. The 8-way power driver seat with power lumbar makes the decision to go premium a comfortable one.

 

Other Key highlights:

 

• 4.2-inch color LCD instrument cluster display
• Hyundai Digital Key
• Passenger auto-down/up window

 

SONATA HYBRID LIMITED | Price: $35,300

 

The Hybrid Limited jumps well past the $30K threshold. This brings truth to the “Limited” designation, as cost-conscious customers might pass.

 

But for those that won’t to get into an elevated class of Hybrid, you will get your money’s worth.

 

What stands out most is the 10.25-inch color LCD instrument cluster display. It simply dwarfs the LCD display of the lower-tiered Sonata models.

 

Other Key highlights:

 

• Front and rear parking sensors
• Highway Driving Assist (HBA)
• Rain-sensing wipers & Solar roof

 

Side-by-Side Quick Glance

 

2021 Hyundai Sonata (Entry Level)	Price	MPG (FWY)	HP	Trim Options
Hyundai Sonata Gas	$23,950	38	290	5: SE, SEL, SEL Plus, N Line, Limited
Hyundai Sonata Hyrbrid	$27,750	54	192	3: Blue, SEL, Limited