2021 Hyundai Sonata vs 2020 Lexus ES

The 2020 Lexus ES had undergone a transformation from its earlier "boring" label, evolving into a more aggressive-looking vehicle. The introduction of the large spindle grille in 2016, which grew even larger in the 2020 model, was a significant change. This grille, which seemed out of place on previous models, blended well with the 2020 ES's larger proportions, although it was still quite a bold design choice. The rear of the car was more subdued, featuring thin taillamps that mirrored the sleekness of the headlights, and a distinct kink at the back of the side windows added visual interest to the long, low sedan. Inside, the ES's cabin was a harmonious blend of modern technology and organic aesthetics, with soft-touch materials and a large infotainment screen integrated into the dash. The interior was considered one of the best among luxury sedans, second only to Mercedes-Benz.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata presented a daring and distinctive design that was unmistakably a Sonata. The N Line version enhanced the car's appeal with functional and stylistic changes, such as a restyled front fascia with larger air intakes and gloss black side mirrors. The car's profile was marked by bold 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, and the rear featured a subtle gloss black lip spoiler and a reworked bumper with a four-outlet exhaust system. The Sonata N Line's interior was similarly sporty, with premium Nappa leather bolsters, Dinamica suede inserts, and red stitching. A panoramic sunroof added to the car's spacious feel, while the overall design suggested performance enhancements beneath the surface.

The 2020 Lexus ES was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Lexus claimed a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 131 mph. While not a high-performance machine, the ES offered confident acceleration and a comfortable, refined ride. The Dynamic Control Shocks contributed to a smooth driving experience, and the optional Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) on the F Sport model added a Sport+ mode for enhanced performance. The ES's steering was light yet precise, and the upgraded suspension and paddle shifters made for a more engaging drive.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line, on the other hand, was powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. This power was managed by an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters and a launch control system. The Sonata N Line offered multiple driving modes, including Normal, Sport, Sport+, and Custom, and featured an Active Sound Design system for an enhanced engine note. The car's sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and 19-inch wheels with performance tires contributed to its dynamic performance. The Sonata N Line excelled on winding roads, with responsive steering and minimal body roll, while maintaining a comfortable ride quality.

The 2020 Lexus ES boasted a spacious cabin with ample head- and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear-seat headroom was improved with the 2019 redesign, accommodating all but the tallest occupants comfortably. The front doors had deep pockets, and the center console offered multiple storage options. The ES provided 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space, which was average for its class, but the lack of folding rear seats limited its cargo versatility.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line featured heated front sport seats with a balance of comfort and support, thanks to Dinamica suede inserts. The front passenger seat had a manual height adjuster, enhancing comfort for both front occupants. While the rear seat space was not significantly more accommodating than the Elantra N Line, the Sonata offered rear air conditioning vents and a USB port. The panoramic sunroof added to the sense of space, and the materials used were of higher quality. The Sonata's trunk provided 16 cubic feet of space, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat for added utility. The Smart Trunk hands-free release feature was a convenient addition.

The 2020 Lexus ES featured the Lexus Remote Touch system, which used a touch-sensitive pad to control the infotainment display. While not a touchscreen, the system was intuitive once presets were set. The 2020 model included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a welcome addition. The ES came with a 10-speaker premium audio system, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. A head-up display was also available, offering crisp graphics and customization.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line came with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Standard features included navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a Bose premium sound system. The system supported HD Radio, SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with a three-year subscription to Blue Link connected services. However, it lacked a WiFi hotspot and a tuning knob, which affected user experience. The Sonata N Line also offered Sounds of Nature for stress relief and Hyundai Digital Key for Android devices.

The 2020 Lexus ES was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. The system also featured pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keep assist, and lane-tracing assist for limited semi-autonomous driving. Additional safety features included airbags, traction control, stability control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line came with Hyundai's SmartSense suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, lane-centering assistance, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning. The N Line also featured a Rear Occupant Alert system, Safe Exit Warning, and Highway Drive Assist. While crash-test ratings for the N Line were not available, the standard Sonata had high ratings for occupant protection.