
We applaud Hyundai for being the first major automaker to go to an all-four-cylinder lineup for its mid-size sedan; the Sonata's excellent gas mileage, no matter which model you choose, is one of several reasons it's been one of our top-rated sedans since its 2011 redesign.
It still competes in a very tough segment with two of the best selling passenger cars, the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.
The Accord remains very much a Honda in driving feel, even though it's quite a large vehicle now.
The Camry was revamped for last year, with improved fuel economy and marginally better refinement; but it remains surprisingly conservative.
The Mazda6 has excellent road manners, making up some for slightly smaller rear-seat space.
And for 2013, the Ford Fusion is completely redesigned; look for the Fusion to be one of the boldest designs in the mid-size market next to the Sonata.
But the Kia Optima also deserves a look; it's almost identical to the Sonata in powertrain and layout, but its sleeker, Euro-influenced styling aims for a very different crowd; we also like what Kia has done with the Optima's handling, but its infotainment features and options aren't quite at the Sonata's level.
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Quick Specs | ||||
With a standout design; perky performance; great gas mileage; and exceptional value for the money, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata is one of the best buys among mid-size sedans. |
The 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid makes an extraordinary leap forward in fuel economy--but also, in its appealing looks and handling. |
The 2013 Kia Optima adds generous dashes of style and sophistication to what's otherwise a sensible, frugal, and spacious mid-size sedan. |
The 2013 Mazda6 is a little more enjoyable to drive than other mid-size sedans, and its roomy, comfortable interior is another advantage, but it's behind the curve in occupant safety and tech features. |
The 2013 Toyota Camry is no standout for design, but it's more than ever the sensible pick for those who value comfort, value, and frugality above all else. |
MSRP From | ||||
$20,895 | $21,900 | $21,350 | $20,725 | $22,235 |
Gas Mileage | ||||
22 MPG City / 40 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 41 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 40 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 39 MPG Hwy |
Engine | ||||
Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 |
EPA Class | ||||
Large Cars | Mid-Size Sedan | Midsize Cars | Midsize | Midsize |
Style Name | ||||
4-Door Sedan 2.4L Automatic GLS *Ltd Avail* | 4-Door Sedan SE FWD | 4-Door Sedan LX | 4-Door Sedan Manual i Sport | 4-Door Sedan I4 Automatic L (GS) |
Drivetrain | ||||
Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | ||||
5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Passenger Doors | ||||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Body Style | ||||
Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan |
Transmission | ||||
Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic w/manual shift | Manual | Automatic w/Manual Shift |
Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
2013 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2013 Ford Fusion | 2013 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2013 Kia Optima | 2013 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2013 Mazda MAZDA6 | 2013 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2013 Toyota Camry |