Hyundai Models: The Right Choice For You

Lauren H
Dec 20, 2020

Are you thinking about buying a Hyundai model but don’t know which to choose? If so, we can help.

What Hyundai models are available?

  • Accent – $15,295-$19,400
  • Elantra – $19,300-$28,100 
  • Ioniq  – $33,045-$38,615 
  • Sonata – $23,600-$43,358 
  • Veloster – $18,800-$28,350 
  • Kona – $20,300-$45,400 
  • NEXO – $58,735-$62,185
  • Palisade – $32,525-$47,750
  • Santa Fe – $26,275-$39,575
  • Tucson – $23,550-$33,300 
  • Venue – $17,350-$22,050 

Hyundai has 11 different models from which to choose and most of those models have a variety of trim levels as well. But, what are the specs, and do these vehicles get good gas mileage? And how safe are the Hyundai vehicles? Let’s find out.

Accent $15,295-$19,400

Gray 2020 Hyundai Accent From Driver Side

The Accent comes as a sedan or a hatchback (SE, SEL, or Limited) and gets exceptional gas mileage. This subcompact Hyundai model seats up to five people and now comes with a variety of driver-assist safety features. It also comes with power windows and doors with an auto-lock feature, 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, and cargo space lights.

Specs:

  • Gas mileage – 33-city and 36-highway
  • Engine – 1.6L I4 w/CVVT including dual continuously variable valve timing
  • Transmission – Intelligent variable with an optional SHIFTRONIC and Hill Start Assist Control and an optional 6-speed manual transmission
  • Electric power-assist speed-sensing steering
  • Front-wheel-drive

Safety Ratings:

The 2020 Accent received an NHTSAoverall 4-Star Safety Rating. And, it received a top rating of “Good” from the IIHS. But, it did receive six acceptable ratings, one marginal rating, and two poor ratings in some categories as well.

Owner/Expert Reviews:

  • Reliable and has Bluetooth
  • Love the back-up camera and the customizable driver’s seat
  • Plenty of legroom
  • Attractive, fun, and easy to drive
  • Affordable and full of features

Elantra – $19,300-$28,100

Hyundai Model: White 2020 Elantra

Sleek compact sedan or GT hatchback with admirable styling and plenty of features that come standard. The Elantra has an efficient engine, lots of technology, and the type of refinement usually saved for luxury cars. And, to top it off, the Elantra is very affordable.

Specs:

  • Gas mileage – 26-36 mph depending on the model
  • Engine – 2.0L 4-cylinder with dual continuously variable valve timing
  • Transmission – Intelligent Variable with three drive modes
  • Electric power-assist speed-sensing steering
  • Front-wheel-drive with a maintenance-free battery

Safety Ratings:

The 2020 Elantra received an NHTSA overall 4-Star Safety Rating with a safety concern warning. And, it received a top rating of “Good” from the IIHS. But, it did receive six acceptable ratings and two poor ratings as well.

Owner/Expert Reviews:

  • Reliable but the headlights aren’t very good
  • Love the three driving modes and technology
  • Great gas mileage and driver-assist features
  • Affordable and refined
  • Great design and an efficient engine

Ioniq EV/Hybrid $33,045-$38,615

White 2020 Ioniq EV From Front - Vehicle History

Here’s one Hyundai model you won’t want to miss, the EV or Hybrid Ioniq, one of the most fuel-efficient hybrid cars you can buy. The Hybrid mileage is exceptional and has a total cruising range of almost 700 miles. And the Electric has a larger battery and more power so you can get about 170 miles on a single charge.

Specs:

  • Mileage 57-city and 59-highway
  • Engine – 1.6L and 139 horsepower
  • Seating capacity – five
  • Transmission – 6-speed auto-shift manual with overdrive
  • Front-wheel-drive

Safety Ratings:

The 2020 Ioniq has not yet been rated by the NHTSA. However, it did receive an overall top rating of “Good” from the IIHS. But, it did receive four acceptable ratings in a few of the categories as well.

Owner/Expert Reviews:

  • Great mileage
  • Has all the bells and whistles
  • Comfortable seats, most comfortable car I ever owned
  • Superior cargo space
  • Lifetime battery coverage on EV and Hybrid

Sonata – $23,600-$43,358

Hyundai Model: Gray 2020 Sonata

This extremely popular midsize sedan has a modern design and plenty of tech and safety features. It also comes with a variety of driver-assist features. And, this Hyundai model now comes in a Hybrid option as well. So there’s something for everyone.

Specs:

  • Engine – 2.5L 4-cylinder and 191 horsepower
  • Gas mileage  -28-city and 38-highway
  • Transmission – 8-speed automatic with overdrive
  • Seating capacity – five
  • Front-wheel-drive

Safety Ratings:

The 2020 Sonata received an NHTSA  overall 5-Star Safety Rating. And, it was an IIHS Top Safety Pick that received a top rating of “Good.” But, it did receive three acceptable ratings and two marginal ratings as well.

Owner/Expert Reviews:

  • Great all-around car, no complaints
  • Very reliable, good engine, and good technology
  • Nice size and great on gas
  • A Standard suite of driver-assist and safety features
  • Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Veloster – $18,800-$28,350

Gray 2020 Veloster In Motion

The Veloster has a unique 3-door configuration. It has a sporty look and comes in either a coupe or hatchback. It also has several engines from which you can choose with each offering different performance levels. You will also like the fact that it has plenty of high-end and high-tech features as well.

Specs:

  • Engine options – 2.0L 4-cylinder and a 1.6L turbo 4
  • Gas mileage – 27-city and 34-highway
  • Transmission – 6-speed automatic with overdrive
  • Seating capacity – four
  • Front-wheel-drive

Safety Ratings:

The 2020 Veloster has not yet been rated by the NHTSA. However, it was an IIHS Top Safety Pick and received the top rating of “Good.” But, it did receive five acceptable ratings and two poor ratings in several categories as well.

Owner/Expert Reviews:

  • Super fun to drive
  • It’s very fast and handles well
  • Looks good and is reliable
  • Drives smoothly and has few problems
  • Comfortable seats

Kona – $20,300-$45,400

Blue 2020 Hyundai Konda From Front Side

The Kona comes in a gas or EV option. This subcompact SUV is a refreshing change from the competition. And it was awarded the KBB Best Buy for its class. This vehicle is practical, efficient, fun to drive, and very efficient.

Specs:

  • Engine – 2.0L I4 with 147 horsepower
  • Gas mileage – 27-city and 33-highway (for the gas-powered option)
  • Transmission – 6-speed automatic with overdrive (with SHIFTRONIC Sequential Shift Control)
  • Seating capacity – five
  • Front-wheel-drive

Safety Ratings:

The 2020 Kona received an NHTSA overall 5-Star Safety Rating. And, it was an IIHS Top Safety Pick with a top rating of “Good.” But, it did receive two acceptable, three marginal, and two poor ratings in several categories as well.

Owner/Expert Reviews:

  • Perfect car with lots of features
  • Love the Sport mode for faster acceleration
  • Great value
  • Plenty of cargo space
  • Love the technology and safety features

NEXO – $58,735-$62,185

White 2020 NEXO - Vehicle History

This vehicle is powered by a hydrogen fuel-cell and it’s the only one of its kind on the market. Unfortunately, this vehicle is only sold in California at this time. And, it’s more expensive than other comparable plug-in hybrid SUVs.

Specs:

  • Engine – Permanent Magnet with 161 horsepower
  • Fuel capacity 41.4 gal.
  • Transmission – 1-speed
  • Seating capacity – five
  • Front-wheel-drive

Safety Ratings:

The 2020 NEXO has not yet been rated by the NHTSA. But, it was an IIHS Top Safety Pick with a top rating of “Good.” But, it did receive three acceptable ratings in some categories as well.

Owner/Expert Reviews:

  • Very reliable
  • No maintenance issues or concerns
  • Good mileage
  • Great purchase

Palisade – $32,525-$47,750

Black 2020 Hyundai Palisade From Front-Driver Side

This vehicle has great styling and it’s a pleasure on the road. It’s also Hyundai’s first true midsize SUV with 3rd-row seating. The Palisade has a long list of features, a quality interior with a luxury appeal and, it’s offered at an affordable price. This one is the whole package.

Specs:

  • Engine – 3.8L GDI with 291 horsepower
  • Transmission – 8-speed automatic with overdrive
  • Gas mileage – 19-city and 26-highway
  • Seating capacity – eight
  • Front-wheel and all-wheel drive options

Safety Ratings:

The 2020 Palisade received an NHTSAoverall 5-Star Safety Rating. And, it was an IIHS Top Safety Pick with a top rating of “Good.” But, it did receive three acceptable ratings and two marginal ratings in several categories as well.

Owner/Expert Reviews:

  • Best SUV on the market
  • Built for comfort and luxury
  • Excellent vehicle for the value
  • Comfortable seats and wonderful options
  • Plenty of room
  • A beautiful vehicle with high-end features

Santa Fe – $26,275-$39,575

Blue 2020 Santa Fe From Front-Driver Side

This SUV is an impressive compact crossover that is loaded with features. It has a powerful turbocharged engine, a quiet interior, and sophisticated styling. Not to mention this is one of the most popular SUVs on the market.

Specs:

  • Engine – 2.5L I6 with 191 horsepower
  • Transmission – 8-speed automatic with overdrive
  • Towing capacity – 2,000 pounds
  • Seating capacity – five
  • Gas mileage – 22-city and 25-highway

Safety Ratings:

The 2020 Santa Fe received an NHTSA overall 5-Star Safety Rating. And, it was an IIHS Top Safety Pick with a top rating of “Good.” But, it did receive four acceptable ratings and two marginal ratings in a few categories as well.

Owner/Expert Reviews:

  • Rides really smooth and handles great
  • Has all the things you want in a car
  • Quick and quiet
  • Lots of safety features
  • Seats are comfortable and supportive

Tucson – $23,550-$33,300

White 2020 Hyundai Tucson From Driver Side

This compact crossover SUV handles well, is fun to drive, and gets great gas mileage. It’s also very comfortable, stylish, and has plenty of standard safety equipment. Perfect for those who have an active lifestyle.

Specs:

  • Engine – 2.0L I4 DCVVT and 161 horsepower
  • Transmission – 6-speed automatic with overdrive
  • Gas mileage – 23-city and 28-highway
  • Towing capacity – 1,000-1,500 pounds
  • Seating capacity – five

Safety Ratings:

The 2020 Tucson received an NHTSA overall 5-Star Safety Rating. And, it was an IIHS Top Safety Pick and received a top rating of “Good.” But, it did receive four acceptable, three marginal, and two poor ratings in some categories as well.

Owner/Expert Reviews:

  • Great value for the money
  • Rides smoothly and is loaded with safety features
  • Has a lot of usable storage
  • Surprisingly good gas mileage
  • Perfect size sporty SUV

Venue – $17,350-$22,050

Black 2020 Venue from front

This all-wheel-drive Hyundai model is fresh, hip, and very affordable. It’s flexible and handles well around town, and it is loaded with safety and convenience features. Its compact size makes it easy to drive and it’s got plenty of interior space.

Specs:

  • Engine – 1.6L I4 DPI DOHC 16 and 121 horsepower
  • Transmission – 1-speed CVT with overdrive
  • Gas mileage – 30-city and 35-highway
  • Seating capacity – five
  • Electric power-assist speed-sensing steering

Safety Ratings:

The Venue received an NHTSA overall 4-Star Safety Rating. And, it was an IIHS Top Safety Pick and received the top rating of “Good.” But, it received 11 acceptable and two marginal ratings in a few categories as well.

Owner/Expert Reviews:

  • I absolutely love this vehicle
  • Phenomenal gas mileage
  • Sleek, stylish, and not too small
  • Love the sport mode
  • No complaints, the best car I ever bought
avatar Lauren H
Lauren H. has sold new and used cars, negotiated numerous car deals, has a thorough knowledge of the best and worst vehicles produced, and has spent the last 10-years as an automotive writer.
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