While most automakers have walked away from midsize sedans, a handful have decided to stay in the game, as there is still a market even with SUVs and crossovers being all the rage. Hyundai is one of those automakers sticking to their guns with the 2024 Hyundai Sonata, giving it a thorough update this year inside and out. Does this almost-all-new sedan still have the goods to compete with the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, the two stalwarts in the segment?
Hyundai has been prolific in keeping its lineup fresh and relevant by listening to feedback and making quick changes, especially when sales don’t live up to expectations. This has been the case with the eighth-generation Sonata, which debuted in 2019 to a lukewarm reception. Most felt the last exterior change was too dramatic and polarizing; this mid-cycle refresh fixes quite a few gripes, but still leaves one major item off the table.
The polarizing catfish front end styling is done, and it’s for the better. Everything from the Sonata’s front bumper, grille, and headlights have evolved into something largely more horizontal and angular. I would not consider it bold or daring, but the Sonata still stands out. The side profile looks pretty much the same as it did before, but the rear end has had some work done. Both the front and rear fascias receive an LED light bar spanning across, making the Sonata eye-catching especially at night. Overall, this design works well, looking modern and clean.
Jump inside and you are greeted by what looks like a massive LED screen, when in reality, it is just two 12.3-inch screens connected by one solid piece. This brings the Sonata in line with the rest of the Hyundai lineup and makes it look more upscale and modern, as new BMWs and Mercedes-Benzes do this, too. And as with the rest of Hyundai’s lineup, the whole interface is simple to use and straightforward, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now standard on all trim levels. Hyundai has kept some physical switchgear on this refreshed Sonata, but climate controls are now handled by a digital display with haptic feedback and two dials.
Build quality is good; despite some hard-touch plastics here and there, the Sonata feels tightly put-together overall, and everything you actually interact with feels quality. There is ample room for four full-sized adults front and rear, but with cargo space rated at 441 litres, its trunk is slightly smaller than the Camry and Accord.
Hyundai has trimmed down the Sonata’s powertrain options for 2024. This particular tester is equipped with the base 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, pumping out a rather tame 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. While great on gas, the base engine groans when pushed hard, and all that noise results in average acceleration at best. Those looking for more power can opt for the N-Line and its 290-horsepower 2.5L turbo-four. Sadly, Hyundai has axed the hybrid powertrain for Canada; it’s a curious move as you can still get a Sonata hybrid in the United States, not to mention the Camry is now all-hybrid for 2025.
All normally aspirated Sonatas come with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel-drive is standard, while our tester is equipped with all-wheel-drive. Unfortunately, those looking for a grown-up WRX in the turbocharged N-Line will be disappointed, since that powerplant is FWD-only. Consider that and the lack of a hybrid in Canada missed opportunities.
Those looking for a relaxed and quiet ride will be more than satisfied with the 2024 Sonata. Road noise is minimal and the chassis soaks up even the worst potholes with ease. It’s composed but far from sporty; even the Altima felt a touch more engaging. Fuel economy is good, but it could’ve been better with a hybrid: AWD Sonatas are rated at 9.9 L/100 kilometres in the city, 7.0 highway, and 8.6 combined. I averaged a respectable 9.1 L/100 km in mostly city driving, and both powertrains accept regular fuel.
Pricing for the 2024 Sonata ranges from $32,599 for the base Preferred Trend trim, up to $39,199 for the N-Line model. Our tester is the Preferred Base; with an extra $2,000 for AWD and $250 for dark grey paint, it works out to $34,849 as-tested before fees and taxes. The Sonata remains a great value proposition compared to the Accord and Camry, but that comes at the expense of a hybrid powertrain.
While the midsize sedan segment has lost numerous players, it remains competitive. Both the Camry and Accord have evolved into their best versions yet, and 2024 Hyundai Sonata hopes to turn things around after a few design missteps. It’s in a much better position than before — the Sonata is comfortable, good-looking, and easy to live with — but the lack of a hybrid is something that needs to be rectified stat. With hybrid sales growing faster than EVs at the moment, Hyundai is leaving sales on the table for its competitors to snatch up.
