ABS standard from 2006. Side air bags standard from 1999. Head protection air bags and ESC standard from 2006. FCW and AEB standard from 2020.
The redesigned Sonata stands out among staid midsized sedans with its sleek profile. Even so, it trails the category’s perennial leaders—the Honda Accord, Subaru Legacy, and Toyota Camry—in CR’s road-test results.
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.