It is no surprise that the 2018 Hyundai Sonata is one of the best used midsize cars on the market. With its wide variety of trim levels and engine configurations, the 2018 Sonata has something for everyone. However, even though the Sonata is a great choice, it lacks in a few areas compared to others in its class. Here are three reasons why the 2018 Hyundai Sonata is a good used car and three reasons you might reconsider.

1. The 2018 Hyundai Sonata has a lot of engine options

The first reason to grab a used 2018 Hyundai Sonata is that there are three engine configurations. First, the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine making 185 horsepower is found in the SE, SEL, Sport, and Limited trims. Next, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 245 horsepower is optional in the Sport and Limited models. Lastly, a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 178 horsepower comes in the Sonata Eco trim. 

Although the variety gives buyers options in the used market, the power figures look decent. Our first reason to skip the Sonata is that its performance is subpar compared to others in its class, like the Chevy Malibu. The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission is only offered in the two top trims. So if you have performance in mind, the Sonatas’ wide variety is actually slim and disappointing.

2.  Does the 2018 Hyundai Sonata have Apple CarPlay?

Being a relatively new car, our second reason to purchase the 2018 Hyundai Sonata is that it comes standard with quite a bit of technology. As noted by US News, the Sonata has ample audio and safety equipment as standard. An Apple CarPlay/Android Auto infotainment system is standard in all trims. In addition, a six-speaker provides excellent sound in the cabin for the lower trim levels. The Limited trim, however, received an eight-speaker Infinity audio system for the audiophiles.

Although you are surrounded by technology, the interior of the Sonata feels very average. Having optional leather seating in the higher trim levels helps it, but the luxurious feel is missing. One of the 2018 Sonata’s main competitors, the 2018 Kia Optima, has a more lush interior. However, intuitive infotainment and options like a panoramic sunroof for the Optima show that the Sonata still leaves a few things on the table. 

3. Is the 2018 Hyundai Sonata reliable?

At first glance, the 2018 Hyundai Sonata is a solid and dependable vehicle. Our final reason to pick one up is the standard safety features like lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. Combining those features with a 4.4 out of 5-star reliability rating from Kelley Blue Books consumer surveys can put a prospective buyer at ease. 

Tying into our last reason to potentially avoid the 2018 Sonata is the variety of issues that owners have reported. Some owners cite poor electrical issues like troublesome alternators, starters, hybrid battery and charging systems, ignition switches, and spark plugs. Others have experience transmission problems as well, although less common.

Is the 2018 Hyundai Sonata a good car?

In conclusion, the 2018 Hyundai Sonata is, in fact, a good car. Being one of the most well-rounded in its class, it does so at a price point that everyone can agree on. Furthermore, the consistent value provided by the 2018 Sonata is why it ranks among the top choices for most used midsize car lists. Although there are things that may deter you from an instant purchase, the Sonata still fits the criteria for almost anyone in the used car market.