2026 Hyundai Sonata Reviews, Interior, Dimensions

2026 Hyundai Sonata Reviews, Interior, Dimensions  –  Natural selection is a key part of ongoing life on this planet. Those that are strongest and best-suited to their environment thrive, while the weaker disappear. It applies to the automotive industry, too, where we’ve seen the once-mighty sedan segment that used to appeal to all walks of life dwindle to its current state. Where once we had dozens of mainstream models to choose from, there are now only a few remaining.

Fortunately for those who appreciate a good sedan, the ones that are left are very good. Honda’s current Accord has won plenty of accolades, and Toyota has just pulled the wraps off its redesigned Camry that features a hybrid-only powertrain. But there’s another great option in the segment that’s been quietly updated: the 2026 Hyundai Sonata. It might not share the same sterling reputation as those key rivals, but it represents quite the bargain in this shrinking segment.

2026 Hyundai Sonata Redesign and Update Plan

Exterior and Interior

As with other contemporary Hyundai models, the Sonata’s biggest interior update is the addition of twin 12.3-inch screens that dominate the dashboard behind a single glass surface. The central infotainment touchscreen offers good responsiveness to inputs and a sensible menu system. Better still, Hyundai has finally made wireless smartphone connectivity available with this widescreen display.

Disappointingly, the instrument panel offers minimal adjustment, allowing the driver to cycle the central portion information between a few different readouts, while the flanking large-digit speedometer and tachometer only allow the colour to change on the rings around them.

The rest of the cockpit utilizes a mix of knobs, buttons, and a small climate system display that makes most frequent inputs easy to find and operate, even at speed. Hyundai has also done away with the obtuse push-button gear selector in favour of the steering column-mounted stalk that requires a twist forward to go forward, and a twist backward to go back. Easy-peasy, and better still, it frees up console space.

2026 Hyundai Sonata Specs

The N Line and the Preferred, which is the model being tested today, are the only two options left in Hyundai’s Sonata portfolio. Even though it is the least expensive Sonata, it nonetheless has a panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats as standard features.  2026 Hyundai Sonata Reviews

Engine and Performance

The Sonata Preferred comes only with a 2.5L four-cylinder engine. Delivering 191 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque, it’s aligned with its direct competitors in terms of output. Acceleration is adequate, and the Sonata manages highway merging and passing without having to be caned mercilessly, but it’s never what one would call exciting. Occasionally, though, it becomes confused by a sudden shove of the accelerator as it quickly searches for the correct gear.  2026 Hyundai Sonata Reviews

2026 Hyundai Sonata Fuel Economy

On paper, the Sonata falls behind its direct competitors when it comes to fuel consumption. When comparing all-wheel-drive setups, the Sonata’s 9.9 L/100 km city rating, 7.0 for the highway, and 8.6 combined are each roughly half a litre more than the all-wheel-drive Nissan Altima. The redesigned Camry, meanwhile,consumes barely more than half the Sonata’s city rate thanks to its hybrid powertrain.

Even still, with somewhat more highway driving than city during our test week, the Sonata easily managed mid-7s, which is respectable, and certainly better than most compact SUVs. The front-wheel-drive Sonata shaves about a half-litre off of each measure. 2026 Hyundai Sonata Reviews

2026 Hyundai Sonata Safety Features

Hyundai hasn’t skimped on the safety front, either. Meanwhile, the N Line trim adds a highway driving assist feature that chips in with some steering help.

A large part of the migration away from sedans has been for the perceived practicality offered by SUVs. And while there’s no denying the interior and cargo space is superior in a sport utility, the Sonata still provides a comfortable cabin. Its trunk measures 473 L, putting it ahead of its direct competition from Toyota, Honda, and Nissan, while optional all-wheel drive is sure to help ease minds in winter driving.   2026 Hyundai Sonata Reviews

2026 Hyundai Sonata Price and Release Date

Starting at $32,599 before freight, the Sonata offers impressive value. Tack on the $2,000 all-wheel drive and $250 for optional paint, and this tester didn’t even touch $37,000 before tax (but with the $1,925 freight charge included), undercutting a similarly-equipped Altima, Accord, and Camry by significant margins.

Automotive natural selection hasn’t been kind to the midsize sedan segment. Everyone from Ford to Volkswagen, Mazda, and soon Subaru have made their exits in recent years. The remaining offerings are all very good machines, but prices have snuck up quickly. Hyundai has refined the Sonata over the years and by dramatically streamlining its trims, has made it a sensational value, positioning it in a very favourable spot to remain a midsize survivor for years to come.  2026 Hyundai Sonata Reviews