The Hyundai Sonata isn’t exactly what you think of when you envision a sports sedan. However, to try and sway that perception, Hyundai has introduced the Sonata N Line. With a 290-hp engine under the hood, a dual-clutch automatic transmission, and a tech-filled interior, the Sonata N Line is off to a good start. Today we’ll be looking at three reasons why you should seriously consider buying one.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line’s engine offers plenty of power

If you’re at all intrigued by the 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line, you’re likely looking at competitors from Honda and Toyota. Under the Sonata’s hood lives a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine developing 290 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. Although all of the available power goes to the front wheels, it does so via an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The benefit here is that the dual-clutch delivers much faster shifts than a traditional automatic.

In contrast, an equivalent Toyota Camry TRD develops 301 hp and 276 lb-ft of torque from its naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine. The key here is the torque figure, which is what truly makes a car feel quick. In this regard, the Hyundai Sonata N Line produces an additional 35 lb-ft over the Toyota. It’s a similar story when we look at the Honda Accord and its weaker 252 hp and 273 lb-ft max output. In terms of the best-sellers, the Hyundai Sonata is poised to be a powerful contender.

The Sonata N Line is surprisingly well equipped

Aside from outright power, the Hyundai Sonata N Line is surprisingly well equipped. While this won’t surprise anyone who’s been in a modern Hyundai, there’s plenty to like here. According to Hyundai, we’ve got a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster, which not only serves up heaps of information but also modernizes the cabin. However, the crown jewel of the dash is the wide 10.25-inch display, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Although the Hyundai Sonata is not typically known for its interior finishing, the N Line stands out. Instead of plain leather seats, the Sonata N Line offers up leather and suede seats. The result is a cabin that appears befitting of a true sports sedan. To set it all off, Hyundai has added subtle touches of red throughout.

As standard, you also get Hyundai’s SmartSense safety system. With this system, you get Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, to name a few. The result is that the Sonata N Line is not only sporty but well equipped as well.

Pricing starts at $33,200

One of the Hyundai Sonata’s greatest strengths has always been its value proposition. In this regard, the N Line is no different, given that it starts at $33,200. Given all of the standard features and performance benefits, the Sonata N Line is a lot of car for the money. Although a comparable Toyota Camry TRD is priced lower at $32,185, you miss out on tech features such as the digital instrument cluster. If we look at the powerful Accord, you’ll be paying at least $36,700 to get the range-topping engine.

All in all, the Sonata N Line is a fantastic first effort as a sports sedan. Given the success Hyundai has had with the Veloster N, it is no wonder why new N models are quite impressive.