Pros: Broad range of available comfort, convenience, and safety features; spacious rear seat; tight-for-the-class turning radius makes for good close-quarters maneuverability
Cons: Off-the-line acceleration is a bit sluggish with base engine; ride quality and suspension composure, though both improved, still trail midsize-car class leaders
CG Says: The Sonata is redesigned for 2015, inaugurating the seventh generation of Hyundai’s mainstream midsize sedan. The new body design is highlighted by a larger, more prominent grille opening and builds on the swoopy styling of the previous-generation Sonata, which was introduced as a 2011 model. Sonata SE, Sport, Sport 2.0T, and Limited models continue, each sporting unique styling features. Also continuing are Sonata’s engines: The previous 2.4-liter- and turbocharged 2.0-liter fours carry over with minor updates and revisions. As before, both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. A Sonata Eco model with a 177-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder hooked to a 7-speed automatic manual transmission will also be offered. New available features include High Beam Assist, adaptive cruise control, next-generation Blue Link telematics/connectivity, and an 8.0-inch navigation system that offers the ability to record preset Sirius/XM channels. (This feature allows you to “rewind” up to 22 minutes, so you can hear all of the song that was playing when you switched channels or catch up on the sports broadcast you caught midway through.) New safety features include a driver knee airbag and available Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Departure Warning System. A new hands-free “smart” automatic-opening trunklid feature makes it easier to place groceries or luggage in the trunk when hands are full. The 2015 Hyundai Sonata maintains the strong value-for-the-money quotient of its predecessor while delivering a formidable list of cutting-edge new features. Sonata remains a must-see in the competitive midsize-car class.
| Class | Midsize Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Hyundai |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | SE: $21,150 Sport: $23,175 Eco: $23,275 Limited: $26,525 Sport 2.0T: $28,575 |
| Base Engine 2.4-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 185 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24-25 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 35-37 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 177 |
| Std. Transmission 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 28 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 38 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 245 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 23 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 32 |
