LOOKS
The materials in the interior of the Sonata Sport 2.0T are somewhat high-end, but not luxurious. Nothing feels cheap, nor should it since the vehicle starts out at over $28K.
The external design is eye-catching, though not the best in class (Ford and Mazda both do better with their offerings). Space inside is adequate and nobody other than the very tall will feel cramped.
ENGINE, HORSEPOWER
Zippy is the way I would describe the Sonata Sport 2.0T’s engine performance.
The 2.0-liter, turbo, direct injection four-cylinder engine provides 245 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. It features a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
This sucker moves more than you expect when you get behind the wheel. The initial get-up occasionally lags, but it takes off swiftly once you’re moving. Another plus is how it hugs the curves, and also maintains a super quiet cabin as you drive on both streets and highways. Quite simply, you’ll have a good time behind the wheel, and be able to enjoy the ride without a lot of outside noise getting in.
TECHNOLOGY
The tech interface works well on the Sonata Sport 2.0T, and it is easy to set up connections to your phone, scroll through info on the screen, and use voice commands and Hyundai’s BlueLink system.
A boatload of extra tech and safety features can be added to the Sonata Sport 2.0T, including: Lane departure warning system, Forward collision warning, Smart cruise control and a 400-watt sound system. This “Ultimate Package” will run you an extra $4,950.
MPG
Official numbers for fuel mileage are 23 city/32 highway/26 combined. I never got above 24 mpg, but I wasn’t exactly driving in fuel-saving mode; quite the opposite.
PRICE
While a non-Sport Sonata starts close to $21K, for the Sport 2.0T your starting price is $28,575. My test vehicle was $34,460 after Ultimate package was added. It’s a great ride but that number seems a bit high for a mid-size sedan; could be a turn-off for some.
BOTTOM LINE
Hyundai comes strong to the mid-size sedan competition with a vehicle that is a blast to drive and offers a quality feel and overall look.
The Hyundai brand and Sonata nameplate are not as popular overall as some of its competitors (Camry/Accord/Fusion are some of the headliners), but if buyers are basing their decision on ride quality alone and not just a name, the Sonata should see sales on an upswing -- as this is a vehicle everyone should have fun driving.
------
AutoTechReviews.com can be found on Twitter @AutoTechReview, or stay updated at the AutoTechReviews Facebook page.
Matt Myftiu can be found on Twitter @MattMyftiu
