The 2021 Hyundai Sonata lasts around 250,000 miles with only some minor satellite radio and window seal issues reported. At $18,199 to $28,300, it’s a good value for a midsize sedan with a luxurious interior.
Is the 2021 Hyundai Sonata a Good Used Car?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2021 is a great year for the Hyundai Sonata since it’s loaded with all the latest technology along with a long warranty. Owner reviews praise the comfortable interior, efficient engines, along with the responsive engine choices.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – Interior materials are nicer than other midsize sedans, the seats are very supportive on long drives, cargo space is also excellent.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2021 Hyundai Sonata. Avoid models from 2011–2015 which have engine failures. Newer models from 2016–2022 are more dependable choices.
- Performance 8/10 – The base engine choices offer average power, while the N Line model is very quick for a midsize sedan in its price range.
- Safety 10/10 – The 2021 Sonata is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. Standard features include adaptive cruise control along with automatic emergency braking. Optional upgrades include remote parking assistance.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel efficiency is good at up to 32 MPG, giving 508 miles of range out of the 15.9 gallon tank. Gas costs are $38 cheaper than average at $158 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2021 Hyundai Sonata is cheaper than some other midsize sedans while still having a long warranty, making it a good value.
Positive Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Hyundai Sonata?
- Consumer Reports says the 2021 Hyundai Sonata is roomy with great driver visibility along with good owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the Sonata at 3.8/5, praising the standard technology features, but doesn’t like the firm suspension.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Sonata a 4.3/5, enjoying the long ten-year warranty, but owners don’t like the lack of all-wheel drive.
What Common Problems Does the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Have?
Common problems found on the 2021 Hyundai Sonata include satellite radio connectivity issues, excessive wind noise, along with some moldy smells from the A/C system. Overall, these problems are relatively minor compared to some other cars on the market, leading to lower repair costs.
Satellite radio connectivity issues are the most widespread complaint from 2021 Hyundai Sonata owners in the first 5,000 miles. Adjusting the cover on the satellite antenna on the roof can help improve reception. Some owners have also had the connections checked at the back of the stereo head unit.
Excessive wind noise is another issue reported by Sonata owners at around 1,500 miles. Usually the problem is caused by a crimped or damaged gasket on the doors or windows which allows wind to enter the cabin. Replacing the door or window gaskets costs $80 to $200, depending on the source.
Moldy smells from the A/C system also show up on some Sonata models in the first 10,000 miles. The most common source of the problem is a clogged A/C drain line which allows mold or mildew to build up in the lines. Flushing out the system costs around $150, depending on local labor rates.
There are three recalls on the 2021 Hyundai Sonata, which is similar to many other midsize sedans. The most serious recall covers a fuel leak at the pipe connection. Hyundai will install a new fuel pipe on affected models for free. Other recalls cover windshield bonding, along with a transmission software update.
How Long Will the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Last?
A well-maintained 2021 Hyundai Sonata can last around 250,000 miles, which is shorter than the long-lasting Toyota Camry. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other midsize sedans, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $450 per year.
As a used 2021 Sonata reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history owners should be prepared to replace the brake master cylinder for $450, the intake manifold gasket costing $400, along with the starter motor which costs $550.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is very good for a midsize sedan with a standard 8-inch touchscreen which features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades include a more powerful stereo system.
Standard safety technology is nice offering:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Pedestrian detection
- Automatic high-beam headlights
- Lane keep assist
- Rearview camera
- Forward collision warning
- Lane departure warning
- Forward automatic emergency braking
- Lane tracing assist
- Rearview camera
Optional advanced driver assistance features include:
- Reverse automatic emergency braking
- Safe exit warning
- Remote smart parking assist
- Head-up display
- Blind spot monitoring
- Surround-view parking camera
- Front and rear parking sensors
Is the 2021 Hyundai Sonata a Good Value?
Yes, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata is a good value since it’s cheaper than some other midsize sedans while still offering good features. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $18,199 to $28,300, making it less than a Honda Accord or Subaru Legacy. When new, the price range was $23,950 to $33,950. Depreciation is similar to other midsize sedans, losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Hyundai Sonata?
There are five models of the 2021 Hyundai Sonata offered from the base SE model all the way through to the sportier N Line. The Sonata comes standard with front-wheel drive only.
SE is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
- LED Headlights
- Cloth Seating
- 8-Inch Central Touchscreen
- Six-Speaker Sound System
SEL adds items including:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Keyless Entry
- Push-Button Start
- Blue Link Remote Connectivity Services
- Power-Adjustable Driver’s Seat
- Heated Front Seats
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
- Hands-Free Trunk Opener
SEL Plus is a step up adding:
- 19-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Paddle Shifters
- Simulated Suede and Faux Leather Seats
- 3-Inch Digital Instrument Display
- Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Rear Climate Vents
- Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
- Wireless Smartphone Charging Pad
- Hyundai Digital Key
Limited is the most luxurious model which has:
- 18-Inch Wheels
- Head-Up Display
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Leather Seats
- Heated Front Seats
- Ventilated Front Seats
- Power-Adjustable Passenger Seats
- Ambient Interior Lighting
N Line is the sport-focused model with:
- Unique 19-Inch Wheels
- Sport Tuned Suspension
- Upgraded Exterior Styling
- Improved Steering
- High-Performance Tires
What Engines Come In the Hyundai Sonata?
- The base engine is an average 2.5L four-cylinder engine which makes 191 horsepower at up to 31 MPG. It comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
- An available upgrade is the more efficient 1.6L four-cylinder, which is good for 180 horsepower while getting up to 32 MPG. This engine also features an eight-speed automatic transmission.
- The N Line has a very strong turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder which produces 290 horsepower at up to 27 MPG. It comes with a dual-clutch eight-speed transmission. Performance is great, taking 5.2 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Hyundai Sonata Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Hyundai Sonata?
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata is a comfortable and well-designed midsize sedan that has been praised for its impressive cabin space and refined interior. Its plush seating provides support and ample legroom for both front and rear passengers, ensuring a pleasant driving experience on short commutes or long road trips.
The Sonata’s suspension is tuned for a smooth and stable ride, effectively absorbing road imperfections and reducing cabin noise for a quiet and relaxing environment. The vehicle also comes with a range of standard and available features that enhance comfort, such as dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
How Much Storage Space Does the Hyundai Sonata Have?
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata is a midsize sedan that offers a comfortable and spacious interior along with ample storage space for its passengers. With a total trunk capacity of 16.0 cubic feet, the Sonata provides enough room to accommodate luggage, groceries, or other cargo with ease.
This generous trunk space is complemented by the 60/40 split-folding rear seats, which can be folded down to create additional room for larger items when needed. Additionally, the cabin features various storage compartments, such as door pockets, a glove box, and a center console with cupholders, making sure that occupants have enough space for their personal belongings.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The seventh generation of the Hyundai Sonata was released for the 2020 model year.
2015: Fully redesigned for the sixth generation with new styling, engines, and technology.
2016: Rearview camera and 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all models.
2017: No major changes.
2018: More standard safety features, minor exterior styling changes, along with an eight-speed automatic transmission on all 2.0T models.
2019: No changes from earlier years.
2020: Fully redesigned for the seventh generation with new technology, engines, and styling.
2021: Minor changes to standard features and new N Line model introduced with more power.
How Does the Hyundai Sonata Compare to the Competition?
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata is a very nice midsize sedan offering a more luxurious cabin along with better technology than a lot of the competition on the market.
The Honda Accord is another sedan available for around $1,500 more. Passenger room is a bit better in the Honda Accord, while the Hyundai Sonata offers a more luxurious interior for the money. We recommend the Hyundai Sonata since you get more features for your money, although both are very good midsize sedans worth checking out.
The Nissan Altima is a midsize sedan which costs about $2,000 less. There’s more cargo space in the Nissan Altima, while the Hyundai Sonata offers a better interior. We recommend the Hyundai Sonata since there are fewer problems reported with them as they age, leading to lower ownership costs.
