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It’s no question that Hyundai has come a long way as an overall brand. Their recent attention to quality, style and performance has been on a steady rise with only the occasional hiccup every now and again. So it’s no surprise to tell you that the 2018 Hyundai Sonata continues to holds its position as one of the top-rated mid-size sedans out there.
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Styling
The 2018 model adds a fresh new front fascia in addition to the brand’s new aggressive, cascading grille. And if the grille’s new design doesn’t capture your attention on its own, the new sculpted hood’s lines and chrome trim “hooks” around the headlamps make sure and point you in the right direction. The rear end gets a new trunk lid, fascia and tail lamps. The Hyundai moniker, “Sonata” is now spans the rear of the vehicle, while the trunk-release button is hidden within the Hyundai logo.
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The inside updates are a tad more subtle, such as the redesign of the shift knob, the posh piano-style radio buttons and revamped vents. The infotainment screen is the standard 8-inch touchscreen, but it too has a slightly revised center stack. Hyundai has a easy-to-use interface in the Sonata and voice commands were easily understood. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration come standard. All backseat passengers can thank Hyundai for USB connection in the rear. The interior is high-quality soft-touch plastic on areas frequently used making the vehicle have a more luxurious appearance than previous models.
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Performance
In addition to exterior and interior changes, the 2018 Hyundai Sonata Limited 2.0T receives a turbo-charged 2.0-liter mated to an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission. The result is a very satisfying 245 hp and 260 lb. ft. of torque sedan. Meanwhile, other Sonata trim levels include a 185 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, 2.4-liter six-speed automatic transmission – SE, SEL, Sport and Limited trims – or a turbocharged 178 hp, 195 lb-ft of torque, 1.6-liter with a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic – exclusive to the Eco trim.
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There are three drive modes: sport, comfort and eco that affect throttle, shift tuning and power-steering assist. It’s a comfortable ride in the city and on the highway, with minimal cabin noise on bumpy back roads.
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Efficiency and Safety
EPA rates gas mileage on the 2018 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T as 23 city and 32 highway for a combined 26 mpg which is unchanged for the 2018 model year.
As for safety, the Sonata comes standard with the two most sought after features, blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. Other safety features are available whether standard or as part of an optional safety package.
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Sonata pricing begins at $22,050 for the base SE while the more expensive, but ridiculously loaded, Limited 2.0T comes in at $32,450. Splurge for the latter…trust me. And while I don’t expect a substantial negative sales impact to Honda Accord or Toyota Camry sales numbers this year, I would certainly recommend this vehicle to anyone in the mid-mize market.
Detailed pricing and specifications on the 2018 Hyundai Sonata model lineup can be found here or visit your local Hyundai dealer.
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