2021 Hyundai Sonata vs 2020 Hyundai Elantra

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra, unchanged from its 2019 restyle, maintained its geometric-influenced design, which was a departure from its previous Genesis Jr. cues. This design was a precursor to the more angular 2021 Elantra. Available in six trims, the Elantra's price ranged from $19,300 to $24,150, with the Limited trim, including the Ultimate Package, reaching $27,630. The Elantra's black paint accentuated its angular features, contrasting with chrome details, resulting in a stylish, albeit divisive, appearance. Inside, the Elantra Limited featured silver trim accents, enhancing its upscale feel, though hard plastics reminded occupants of its compact car status.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata, redesigned for 2020, presented a bold and distinctive look, characterized by its broad grille and tapered tail. The N Line variant further enhanced this design with functional and stylistic changes, such as larger air intakes and gloss black accents. The Sonata's profile was marked by 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, while the rear featured a gloss black lip spoiler and a reworked bumper. Inside, the Sonata N Line offered sport seats with Nappa leather and Dinamica suede, red stitching, and a panoramic sunroof, creating a sporty yet comfortable environment.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra offered a base 147-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a new CVT, replacing the previous six-speed automatic. This change contributed to a $1,100 price increase for the SE trim. The Elantra Eco featured a 128-horsepower turbocharged 1.4-liter engine with a seven-speed DCT, delivering better torque and fuel efficiency. The Elantra Sport, with a 201-horsepower 1.6-liter turbo engine, provided a more engaging drive with an independent rear suspension. Despite the CVT's efficiency claims, real-world testing showed a disappointing 29.3 mpg, compared to the expected 34 mpg. The Elantra's torsion beam axle rear suspension detracted from ride quality, making it less enjoyable to drive compared to the Sport trim.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line, powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, delivered 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed wet DCT with paddle shifters and launch control enhanced its performance. The Sonata offered multiple driving modes and an Active Sound Design system, creating an engaging driving experience. The N Line's sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and 19-inch wheels improved handling and ride quality. Despite being front-wheel drive, the Sonata managed understeer effectively, and its suspension minimized body roll. The EPA estimated 27 mpg in combined driving, but real-world testing averaged 23.7 mpg, influenced by spirited driving and traffic conditions.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra provided spacious accommodations for four adults, with a fifth fitting for short trips. The Limited trim featured power driver’s seat adjustment, leather upholstery, and a sliding center console armrest. All Elantras included a dual-zone automatic climate control system, though rear air vents were absent. The trunk offered 14.4 cubic feet of space, comparable to some midsize sedans, and included a convenient interior grab handle.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line's heated front sport seats balanced comfort and support, with Dinamica suede inserts aiding in grip. The front passenger seat included a manual height adjuster. Rear-seat accommodations were similar to the Elantra, with added rear air vents and a USB port. The Sonata's panoramic sunroof enhanced the sense of space, while materials were of higher quality. The trunk provided 16 cubic feet of space, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat for added utility. The Smart Trunk feature offered hands-free access, though the lack of an interior handle could be inconvenient.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra came with a standard touchscreen infotainment system, with screen sizes varying by trim. The SEL trim included a 7-inch display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The Limited trim added wireless charging and a premium Infinity sound system, with the Ultimate Package offering an 8-inch screen and navigation. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and voice recognition.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, wireless charging, and a Bose sound system. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year Blue Link subscription. The lack of a tuning knob and occasional touch-sensing issues were drawbacks. The Sonata offered Sounds of Nature for relaxation and Hyundai Digital Key for Android users.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra included Hyundai Smart Sense as standard, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Elantra earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS with LED headlights and a four-star NHTSA rating, though rear-door intrusion was a concern.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line featured a comprehensive SmartSense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, and more. Additional features included Rear Occupant Alert and Safe Exit Warning. Highway Drive Assist provided Level 2 ADAS, working smoothly and accurately. While crash-test ratings were pending, the Sonata's safety features and standard model performance were commendable.