The Hyundai Sonata is known for its sleek and modern design, impressive fuel economy, and advanced safety features. This popular midsize sedan provides a comfortable ride with ample space for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families and commuters. The Sonata also offers a range of tech features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration, and advanced driver-assistance systems, depending on the trim level. So, what are the best 2023 Hyundai Sonata trims? Let’s look at some key features of each trim and go over pricing.

Overview of the 2023 Hyundai Sonata trims

The 2023 Hyundai Sonata offers five trim levels: SE, SEL, SEL Plus, N Line, and Limited. Depending on the trim level, the Sonata has one of three engines.

Under the hood of the SE and SEL is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Powering the SEL Plus and Limited is a 1.6-liter turbo-four. At the top of the offerings is a 2.5-liter turbo-four in the N Line.

As for pricing, Hyundai starts the SE at $25,250. The SEL retails for $27,775, and the SEL Plus costs $32,275. New this year is a 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, and a space-saving mobility kit.

The N Line performance model starts at $34,625. It adds to the SEL’s features and swaps the 1.6-liter turbo for a 290-hp 2.5-liter turbo-four, which pairs with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Building upon the SEL Plus, the range-topping Limited starts at $35,125. It also packs the same 1.6-liter turbo-four but with the added feature of the Driver Mode Select system and a Sport+ mode. Plus, it has leather-trimmed upholstery instead of cloth seats. The driver’s seat and outboard mirrors also get memory settings for driver customization.

Consumers and experts pick the 2 best 2023 Hyundai Sonata trims

The consensus among consumers and critics for the best 2023 Hyundai Sonata trims are the SEL and SEL Plus.

According to Edmunds, the most popular trim among consumers is the SEL. It’s well-appointed and includes most of the equipment families want.

Edmunds’ experts agree and recommend the SEL for its affordability. With a minimal price hike over the base SE trim, the SEL adds luxurious extras, such as heated front seats, a blind-spot warning system, and a larger center touchscreen with navigation.

However, MotorTrend’s reviewers prefer the SEL Plus. They explain it’s the cheapest way into the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, and this trim has the best tech features.

And Car and Driver agrees with MotorTrend’s top pick, the SEL Plus. “Not only is the SEL Plus model the most affordable way to get the upgraded 180-hp turbo-four engine, it’s also the only Sonata that currently comes with 19-inch rims and enhanced all-season tires,” C/D says. 

What else does this midsize sedan offer?

The 2023 Hyundai Sonata provides numerous excellent features, including an attractive-looking, easy-to-use infotainment system display, an innovative parking camera system, and an unbeatable warranty.

In addition, its safety record is nearly spotless. The NHTSA gave it an overall five-star rating, and the IIHS named the 2023 Sonata a Top Safety Pick. However, this rating applies to only the models with premium LED headlights.

As for fuel economy, the Sonata provides a selection of highly fuel-efficient powertrains, with the hybrid versions boasting the highest estimates. The Blue hybrid trim is rated for up to 50 mpg in the city and 54 on the highway; the other hybrid Sonata trims get an estimated 45 mpg and 51 mpg.