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The midsize family sedan segment is more exciting than watching grass grow, but only a little. Thankfully, one affordable Hyundai stands out with impressive features and attractive styling. While the lower-trim 2023 Sonata is economical and well-equipped, the top-trim Limited provides extra comfort at budget-friendly pricing

An overview of the 2023 Hyundai Sonata

The standard 2023 Hyundai Sonata midsize sedan comes in five gas-only trim levels, with the Sonata Hybrid model categorized separately. Pricing for each model looks like the following:

  • SE – $26,365
  • SEL – $28,890
  • SEL Plus – $33,390
  • N Line – $35,740
  • Limited – $36,240

While Car and Driver reviewers prefer the handling and ride characteristics of other midsize family sedans, they found the 2023 Sonata’s handling “composed and responsive on the road.” They also enjoyed the 180-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder eight-speed automatic transmission package in the SEL Plus they tested. 

The 2023 Sonata comes with two other powertrains, each more powerful than the 180-hp 1.6-liter turbo featured in the SEL Plus and Limited models. The SE and SEL Sonatas employ a 191-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder backed by an eight-speed automatic. The sporty Sonata N Line features a 290-hp 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder with an eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission.

The base Hyundai Sonata SE gets 32 mpg combined and includes the following features:

  • 16-inch alloy wheels
  • LED Headlights and taillights
  • Automatic high-beam assist
  • Heated side mirrors
  • Premium cloth seats
  • Six-way adjustable passenger and driver seats
  • 60/40 split fold-down rear seats
  • 8-inch touchscreen
  • Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
  • Rearview monitor with parking guidance
  • Telescopic/tilt steering 
  • Forward collision avoidance with detection for pedestrians, cyclists, and junction turning
  • Lane-keeping and lane-following assist
  • Driver attention warning
  • Adaptive cruise control with stop and go
  • Blind-spot collision avoidance assist
  • Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist
  • Safe exit warning
  • Rear occupant alert

How much does a fully loaded 2023 Hyundai Sonata cost?

An overhead shot of red and black 2023 Hyundai Sonata midsize sedan models
2023 Hyundai Sonata models | Hyundai Motor America

A top-level 2023 Hyundai Sonata Limited starts at $36,240, including destination charges. Hyundai offers four no-cost exterior color options, Black, Portofino Gray, Hampton Gray, and Curated Silver, and adds $400 for a White paint option. Interior color options include Black, Gray, and Tan at no extra charge. 

While there are no additional options for the Sonata Limited, there are several accessories to make your Sonata more useful and comfortable, such as:

  • The $205 cargo package includes a cargo tray, cargo net, and a cargo hook to hang bags weighing up to 16 pounds in the cargo area 
  • The $130 preferred accessory package includes a cargo block, cargo side bins, and a first aid kit.
  • $210 carpeted floor mats
  • $115 mudguards
  • A $75 rear bumper applique prevents scratches while loading and unloading the cargo area
  • $70 wheel locks
  • The $335 winter weather package with all-weather floor mats

Adding these accessories and the premium White exterior paint charge brings the Sonata Limited price to $37,780. 

The included 1.6-liter turbo powertrain gets an EPA-estimated 31 mpg combined and provides 195-lb-ft of torque. Upgraded equipment included with the Limited trim consists of the following:

  • 18-inch alloy wheels
  • Premium LED headlights
  • Full LED taillights with LED turn signals
  • Leather seating surfaces
  • Eight-way driver and six-way passenger power-adjustable seats with heat and ventilation
  • Driver seat and side mirror memory
  • Rear center armrest with dual cupholders
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel
  • 10.25-inch touchscreen
  • Onboard navigation
  • Premium 12-speaker audio
  • Dynamic voice recognition 
  • Dual automatic temperature control
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • Remote parking assist
  • Reverse parking collision avoidance assist
  • Blind-spot view monitor

Which Sonata trim level should you buy?

For the “most affordable way to get the upgraded 180-hp turbo-four engine,” Car and Driver recommends the Hyundai Sonata SEL Plus with the included Tech package. In addition to the turbocharged engine, the SEL Plus also features the following:

  • 19-inch alloy wheels with enhanced all-season tires
  • 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
  • Leatherette and microsuede upholstery
  • Heated front seats with power adjustable driver’s seat
  • Rear seat air vents
  • 10.25-inch touchscreen
  • Navigation
  • 12-speaker premium audio 
  • Panoramic sunroof

You’ll also enjoy Hyundai’s class-leading warranty which covers the Sonata with a limited warranty for five years or 60,000 miles and the powertrain for 10 years or 100,000 miles. Hyundai also offers 24-hour roadside assistance for five years with the Sonata. So, whichever 2023 Hyundai Sonata model you choose, you’ll stand out in a world crowded with Malibus and Accords. 

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