The Hyundai Sonata Still Isn’t In the Same League As the Toyota Camry

Hyundai completely redesigned the Sonata for 2020. The 2020 Sonata has brought impressive changes and is arguably the most stylish option in the midsize sedan class. But even with the significant updates, the Sonata still isn’t quite in the same league as the Toyota Camry

Where the 2020 Hyundai Sonata shines

2020 Hyundai Sonata driving through a desert road
2020 Hyundai Sonata | Hyundai

As we mentioned, style is a significant highlight of the Sonata. The 2020 version boasts a more aggressive look and sleeker body design. What’s also pleasing is that the Sonata’s attractive looks continue on the inside. 

Most reviewers agree that the Sonata has one of the nicest car cabins in its class. It has soft padded trimmings throughout, which gives the car a more upscale feel. This five-seater also provides generous head- and legroom. 

2020 Hyundai Sonata
2020 Hyundai Sonata | Hyundai

The Sonata comes standard with cloth upholstery with faux leather and genuine leather available as options. Other available amenities include heated and cooled front seats. In addition to its aesthetics, the Sonata is one of the best choices if you’re a tech-lover.

Standard infotainment features in the 2020 Sonata include an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. You’ll like Sonata’s infotainment system because it’s sharp and easy-to-use. Additionally, this Hyundai has earned praise for its standard active safety equipment, including forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. 

Where the Sonata can still improve 

Hyundai shows off their 2020 Sonata Hybrid at the Chicago Auto Show
The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid | Scott Olson/Getty Images

The Sonata gets major points for its futuristic design and tech. But some reviewers say that this Hyundai could still improve when it comes to performance. The 2020 Sonata features two engines and is also available as a hybrid

Base models come with a 191-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder that accelerates rather quickly. There’s also an optional turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder that makes 180-hp, but there’s no gain regarding power or speed here. 

As Consumer Reports highlights, the Sonata’s most significant flaw is its ride comfort. CR noted that Sonata is stiff and is known to jostle more from road bumps than its rivals. Because of this, CR says the Sonata in the same league as the Camry when it comes to comfort. 

What the 2020 Toyota Camry does better 

A white 2020 Toyota Camry TRD
2020 Toyota Camry TRD | Toyota
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The Camry may seem overrated, but it’s consistently one of the best-selling cars for a reason. As CR said, the Camry has an exceptionally comfortable ride quality. It’s also one of the best gas-sippers you can buy. The 2020 model comes with a potent 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 203-hp. While the regular Camry has excellent fuel economy, you’ll also want to consider the hybridized version. Furthermore, the Camry Hybrid returns more miles per gallon than the Sonata Hybrid.

On the inside, the Camry provides roomy seating for five and has upscale trimmings. Safety is also a major selling point for the Camry. Toyota made advanced safety features, including forward-collision warning and pedestrian detection standard on the Camry. One downside, though, is that you have to upgrade for features like Apple CarPlay.