2021 Hyundai Sonata Review

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata is a midsize sedan that competes against heavy hitters such as the Honda Accord, Kia Optima and Toyota Camry. The Sonata does all the typical sedan stuff well — the cabin is terrifically spacious, trunk space is massive, and it's quicker than you might expect. Technology plays a significant role in this Sonata as well. Some, such as the driverless Smart Park feature, feel a little gimmicky in practice. It's the less attention-grabbing features — the easy-to-use infotainment system, giant touchscreen display, excellent voice controls and high-res surround-view parking camera — that truly impress.

After the Hyundai Sonata's full redesign last year, there are only a few minor changes to the core vehicle for 2021. For instance, the SEL comes with a safe-exit warning feature that alerts you if you're about to open your door into traffic. And the Limited trim receives a height-adjustable, power-adjustable front passenger seat. The big news for 2021, however, is a new range-topping trim with a sporty edge.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line is oriented toward buyers who want a family-friendly sedan with an edge. Power comes from an all-new turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that cranks out 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. It's meant to rival the related Kia K5 GT (which has the same engine) and the Toyota Camry TRD. The N Line also comes with a special black-painted grille, dual exhaust pipes and sport front seats with red accent stitching.